Pregnant Women Take ‘At Least Two Months Sick Leave’ From Work

The majority of women take at least two months sick leave during their pregnancy, a new study has revealed.

Researchers in Norway have found that 75 per cent of pregnant women have cited tiredness and sleep problems as their main reason for missing work.

However, the researchers have said employers can reduce absence through flexible work arrangements for their staff.

Lead researcher Dr Signe Dorheim said: “We found that a large number of pregnant women take time off work as sick leave. 

“The factors associated with sick leave varied according to the trimester of pregnancy but some of these factors are not necessarily caused by pregnancy alone.

“Women who suffer from work-related fatigue, such as insomnia, are likely to require more time off, especially during late pregnancy.

“Further research is needed to look at how treatment of certain conditions and work adjustments can lead to less time being taken off work and ultimately a better quality of life for pregnant women.”

The study found that 35 per cent of women call in sick as a result of insomnia, while 32 per cent call in sick due to limited mobility and pelvic joint pain.

Experts believe flexible work conditions would help pregnant women cope with work easier

Vomiting and nausea cause 23 per cent of women to call in sick.

John Thorp, BJOG Deputy-Editor-in-Chief of An International Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology added: “This study was conducted in Norway, where sick leave entitlements allow workers to receive very good compensation for time taken due to illness, so this may impact the findings.

“However, the factors that affect pregnant women in the workplace are universal and this study shows a clear link between working conditions and the duration of sick leave, which highlights the potential benefits for employers to have a support system in place. 

“Pregnancy is a normal physiological state, however, it can affect women in different ways. If a woman is concerned she should talk to her employer, GP or midwife for support,” he said.

Do you think flexible work conditions would help women cope with work during pregnancy?