I was 34 weeks pregnant with my second. Still working full-time as a dietitian in a busy clinic. Standing for hours. Running between exam rooms. My back was screaming. My ankles were the size of small melons.
My manager asked me to cover an extra shift. Someone had called in sick. I said yes — like I always did. Then I got home and cried.
The next morning, I walked into her office and said, "I can't. I need to reduce my standing time. I need a stool. And I need you to stop asking me to cover extra shifts."
She looked surprised. "You should have said something sooner," she said.
That's when I realized: I'd been suffering in silence because I didn't want to be difficult. I didn't want to be seen as weak. I'd internalized the idea that pregnant workers should be grateful for accommodations, not demanding of them.
That's bullshit.
The Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (PWFA) requires employers to provide reasonable accommodations — a stool, extra breaks, lifting restrictions, flexible scheduling. You don't have to beg. You don't have to suffer. You just have to ask.
I'm not saying every employer will be gracious. Some will push back. But the law is on your side. And you have more power than you think.
One of my patients, a cashier, asked for a stool at 30 weeks. Her manager said no. She filed a complaint with the EEOC. Within two weeks, she had a stool and a written apology.
You don't need to be a hero. You don't need to prove you can work just as hard while pregnant. You're growing a human. That's already a full-time job.
If you're pregnant and working, know your rights. Write down what you need. Ask in writing if possible. And if they say no, escalate. You're not being difficult. You're being a parent.
This article reflects personal experience and legal information. Employment laws vary by state. Consult an attorney for specific advice.
— Emily