Facing a Job Change Dilemma: Is It Okay to Switch Companies Early in Pregnancy?

Hi, I recently received an offer from a company and am ready to make a move. The notice period in my current company is 90 days. However, it seems that I may be pregnant (not yet confirmed). So, if the pregnancy is confirmed, I am in a dilemma about whether to join the new company or stay with my current one. I would appreciate any suggestions you can provide on this matter. Is it legally acceptable to change companies during the initial stages of pregnancy?

It depends on your discretion to avail yourself of the statutory maternity benefits from your employer. If your minimum length of service in the present establishment is not less than 80 days in the preceding 12 months effective on the expected date of your delivery, you are entitled to a maternity benefit of 26 weeks of leave with wages and other benefits under the Maternity Benefit Act, 1961.

If you switch jobs anytime during your pregnancy, you will lose these benefits. It is also doubtful whether a prospective employer would consider hiring a pregnant woman. Therefore, it is up to you to decide by comparing the potential loss of maternity benefits and the gains of the alternative job.

Dear Ms. Jaya, I agree with Mr. Umakanthan. Normally, a prospective employer who identifies your pregnancy through a pre-employment medical checkup will not prefer to appoint you for employment. This decision increases their costs on one side, and they tend to recruit one more person during your maternity leave as prescribed by the maternity act.

So, it is advisable to move after delivery. By doing this, you can avail of maternity leave benefits and hospitalization benefits if your present organization covers you under a group medical insurance policy.

Regards, P K Sudarsan

Honesty is the best policy. Why uncertainty as to pregnancy? This could be confirmed medically. If pregnant, take the prospective employer into confidence and leave the decision to them.