Quitting a Job Due to Pregnancy Complications

Less Stressful Position

If the doctor says it's OK to transfer to a less stressful position, discuss this with your employer. Ask her if it's possible to transfer to another position. Maybe she's willing to redefine your job duties for a few months. If telecommuting is offered, maybe she will allow you to work from home for the remainder of your pregnancy. Great employees are hard to find. If you are an exceptional worker, the employer may bend over backward to accommodate your needs. If you ask for a less stressful position, put the request in writing. Save a copy of the request for your own records.

Before Quitting

Some employers are required to comply with the federal government's Family Medical Leave Act. Under FMLA, you can take up to 12 weeks of unpaid time off for your pregnancy complications. By taking FMLA, you don't have to worry about finding another job after the baby is born. Simply go back to your old job. Not all employers are required to offer FMLA, only those with 50 or more employees. You must work with the company for at least one year before qualifying for FMLA. Speak with your boss or human resources director to see if FMLA is offered, as well as how to apply for time off.

Maintaining Cash Flow

If FMLA is not an option, ask your employer about short-term disability. Many of the larger corporations offer this benefit to employees. With short-term disability, you can take off work for extended periods of time while tending to your medical needs. The good thing about short-term disability is that you still receive compensation, a portion of your salary, while you are away. If you absolutely must quit your job, apply for unemployment benefits. If you qualify for unemployment, you will receive a weekly benefits check to help make ends meet. Apply for unemployment through your local unemployment agency. You may have to provide documentation that quitting was your only option.

Create a Paper Trail

If you have to quit your job due to pregnancy complications, create a paper trail of everything surrounding your resignation. The paper trail may come in handy someday, especially if you intend to apply for unemployment benefits. Get documentation from your doctor acknowledging that you have been ordered to stop working. Speak with your employer to let her know what your doctor is recommending. If you choose to verbally notify your employer, don't forget to submit a written notification as well. The written notification is part of your paper trail.