Right of Pregnant Women at Work

Most women can keep working throughout their pregnancy and some even choose to work until a day or two before the birth. But for every woman it's important to make sure you plan ahead, inform the relevant people, and ensure that you're working in a safe environment.

Accept help

If you tell a friend at work about the pregnancy early on you also have a confidant – and someone who can keep an eye out for you. Many women experience morning sickness and your colleague can simply make sure you are OK. As you get further along in your pregnancy, coworkers may offer to help more and more – say yes and consider yourself lucky to be working in a supportive working environment.

Eat well and often

You'll need to increase your energy requirements, as well as nutrients such as iron, folate, iodine, zinc and vitamin C. Natasha Murray, an accredited practising dietician and spokesperson for Dieticians Association of Australia (DAA) says that a pregnancy multi-vitamin is sufficient for most women. She stresses that eating regularly is pivotal. "You might need to schedule in lunch breaks, as well as morning and afternoon tea. I'd recommend taking your own lunch and snacks to work, so that if you're having a hungry day you've got nutritious food close at hand."

Relax and minimise stress

Pregnancy can be an emotional rollercoaster and some women find it challenging to maintain equilibrium. Try to eliminate stress, but if you can't get away from it then manage it through deep breathing exercises, yoga, meditation – or simply by going for a walk. Cottle reminds expectant mums to "recognise that growing a new human puts a lot of strain on your body and emotions. Don't expect too much of yourself. If you have sick leave and you need a day off because you're feeling unwell or overly stressed – take it."

Know your Right

Minimum Conditions of Employment

The Employment Act, 1955 is the main legislation on labour matters in Malaysia.

Paid maternity leave : 60 days

Normal work hours : Not exceeding eight hours in one day or 48 hours in one week

Paid holiday : At least 11 gazetted public holidays 

(inclusive of five compulsory public holidays; National Day, Birthday of the Yang Dipertuan Agong, Birthday of Ruler/Federal Territory Day, Labour day and Malaysia Day) in one calendar year and on any day declared as a public holiday under section 8 of the Holiday Act 1951

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