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Pregnancy Rights at Work UK: Complete Guide

Knowing your pregnancy rights at work is essential. Here's a complete guide to your employment rights, maternity pay, and protections in the UK.

Table of Contents

  1. When to Tell Your Employer
  2. Risk Assessment
  3. Maternity Pay UK
  4. Sick Leave in Pregnancy
  5. Anti-Discrimination
  6. Free Prescriptions

When to Tell Your Employer

Legally, you must tell your employer at least 15 weeks before your due date (around week 25). However, many women tell earlier, especially if they need a risk assessment or are experiencing severe morning sickness.

Risk Assessment

Your employer must carry out a risk assessment when you tell them you're pregnant. This includes checking: heavy lifting; chemicals; standing for long periods; shift work; stress. If risks are found, your employer must modify your work or offer alternative duties.

Maternity Pay UK

Statutory Maternity Pay (SMP): £172.48/week (90% of average weekly earnings if lower) for 39 weeks. You qualify if you've worked for your employer for 26+ weeks by the 15th week before your due date. Maternity Allowance is available if you don't qualify for SMP.

Sick Leave in Pregnancy

If you're too ill to work during pregnancy, you can take sick leave as normal. Your employer cannot force you to start maternity leave early if you're off sick during the last 4 weeks before your due.

Anti-Discrimination

It's illegal to discriminate against pregnant women. You cannot be fired, demoted, or passed over for promotion because you're pregnant. If you experience discrimination, contact ACAS or a solicitor.

Free Prescriptions

You're entitled to free NHS prescriptions and dental care during pregnancy and for 12 months after birth. Apply for a maternity exemption certificate (MatEx) through your GP or midwife.

Frequently Asked Questions

### When do I legally have to tell my employer I'm pregnant?

You must inform your employer at least 15 weeks before your due date (around week 25). However, it's often better to tell them earlier so they can carry out a risk assessment.

Can my employer change my hours because I'm pregnant?

Your employer can modify your duties if a risk assessment identifies risks, but they cannot reduce your pay or demote you. If they need to change your hours for safety, you should still receive full pay.

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider.

Last reviewed: June 2026

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