Pregnant? - how to tell your boss

In order to benefit from the legal protection afforded to working pregnant women, it is advisable to inform your boss of your condition. While many women prefer to keep their pregnancy a secret until they begin to 'show' (around the second trimester), this may not be feasible and favorable. What if pregnancy discomforts surface and affect your job performance, such as morning sickness, fatigue, nausea or even temporary memory loss? Your boss and coworkers may misconceive your behavior and assume the worst. More importantly you may bring potential harm to your pregnancy if you continue working in conditions not suitable for a pregnant woman. All things considered, inform your boss or immediate supervisor before any of your colleagues. Don't let the word' slip out'; instead inform your boss over a formal meeting.

Be prepared to answer a host of questions your boss may have for you. Use this meeting as a platform to show your boss your capabilities and willingness to handle job pressures. The questions may include:

• How long you intend to continue working during your pregnancy
• How much time off you will need after giving birth
• Your plan to return to your job will be on a full time or part time basis
• Suggestions on how your work load can be handled in your absence ' who might take over while you are away, is hiring a temp necessary

1. Be prepared to answer a host of questions your boss may have for you. Use this meeting as a platform to show your boss your capabilities and willingness to handle job pressures. The questions may include:

2. Let your boss know if you can be reached at home once you stop working and how much the company can depend on your input when you take leave of absence. On your part, familiarize yourself with the maternity benefits or policies of the company before the meeting. Follow up your meeting with a written memo stating when you expect to stop work, the length of your leave, handling your workload and your plans for resuming work. Keep one copy for your records. It is up to you if want to share the news with your coworkers or keep mum for a while longer.

3. Be prepared for a variety of reactions from your colleagues' some positive and some the opposite. The important thing is don't allow yourself to be professionally intimidated by anyone's reactions, whether it is your boss or your colleagues.