Being pregnant is something that is hard all on its own. However, if you have to go to work while you are pregnant, it can be just that much more difficult to deal with. It is important for co-workers to know how to talk to and support their pregnant colleagues while they are going through this difficult time. Being kind to pregnant women is crucial due to the fact that 82% of women worked until one month before their due date.
Pregnant women have to fight against stigma and you can help
Being stigmatized at work is something that is very common for pregnant women. They are viewed as more irrational and easier to irritate. However, this is usually not true. Just because a worker is irrational doesn’t mean that they are going to be flying off the handle. There needs to be a shift in the workplace where this view of pregnant women is not common. Setting a good example for your other coworkers on how to treat pregnant workers is a great way to solve this issue.
Help to stop end discrimination
Discrimination is a big problem when it comes to pregnant women in the workplace. Pregnant women can many times be turned down from promotions, forced to take time off work, or even fired. Standing up for your pregnant coworkers in meetings and on a daily basis will let your employer know that employees, in general, look down on this discrimination. If you have to go up higher in the chain of command, talk to HR and try to get this problem resolved.
Don’t act like pregnant coworkers are incapable
One study showed that when pregnant workers felt as though they were being helped too much during their pregnancy, it actually made them want to quit once their child was born. It was easy for them to feel unimportant after all that extra help had gone away. Instead of trying to help your pregnant coworkers too much, just let them know you view them as a strong and capable member of the team.
It can be difficult to know how to support pregnant coworkers. Asking your pregnant coworkers what would work for them is also a great way to go about supporting them properly. Make sure that you are patient with your organization as they learn these new skills.