PLACES | Pregnancy Loss (under 24 weeks) in Workplaces: Informing policymakers on support mechanisms

The Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth develops policy in relation to statutory leave entitlements to support individuals and families. As part of this work the department commissioned the Pregnancy Loss Research Group at University College Cork to look at the implications of pregnancy loss before 24 weeks on women, their partners and their support needs in the workforce. Pregnancy loss has traditionally been experienced and treated as a ‘private’ event with little wider acknowledgement or supports.

In addition to the emotional toll, pregnancy loss can have physical effects that require support and care. For many, their physical care and recovery during and following pregnancy loss is further compounded by the emotional reality of bereavement and loss. This may mean time away from work which has not been supported in a statutory or protected way in the workplace and people might have to reply on annual leave or sick leave to recover. Moreover, women and men face worries about sharing their experience of pregnancy loss – these might be personal, financial, emotional or career related.

The researcher interviewed women and men about their experiences and this paper outlines the issues and makes policy recommendations to ease the burden of pregnancy loss in the workplace.