Pregnancy is a beautiful, life-changing experience, one that can prompt significant lifestyle changes. For some expectant mothers, those changes might include resigning from your job. Whether you’re leaving because of pregnancy complications, the desire to focus on family, or to manage your physical or emotional well-being, you’ll probably need to write a resignation letter due to pregnancy for your employer.
In this article, we'll explore possible reasons for resigning due to pregnancy, potential implications of that decision, ways to navigate your resignation professionally, and most important, how to write a resignation letter due to pregnancy tailored to your situation. You’ll find all you need to resign the right way during pregnancy, including tips from employment experts and examples for different scenarios.
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Can you resign from your job while pregnant?
If you’re an at-will employee—and most of us are—you can resign from your job at any time, for any reason—including pregnancy.
“From a legal perspective you’re allowed to do this of your own volition,” says Ben Michael, attorney at M & A Criminal Defense Attorneys. “Maybe you simply don’t want to return to the job because you want to focus on your child, maybe you're moving to live closer to your child’s grandparents, maybe you are simply taking the opportunity to make a career switch. Whatever the reason is, if it is something you want to do, you can do it.”
However, it's important to consider several factors before resigning, such as the availability of maternity benefits, health insurance coverage, and your financial situation. Consulting with your HR department about any leave options or benefits can help you make an informed decision before submitting your resignation.
Common reasons for resigning due to pregnancy
“There are many reasons to step away from your job—maybe you need to prioritize your health, or perhaps your employer doesn't offer enough flexibility for maternity leave,” says Ramzy Ladah, attorney at Ladah Law Firm. “Sometimes, it's just the physical or emotional strain of balancing work and pregnancy that becomes too much. Your health and the well-being of your baby come first.”
Here are some common reasons women resign while pregnant.
Pregnancy complications
Pregnancy can sometimes present medical challenges that make it difficult to continue working. If you’re dealing with complications such as gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, or other high-risk factors, focusing on your health and the well-being of your baby may take precedence over work commitments.
High-risk pregnancy
High-risk pregnancies require close medical monitoring, often with restrictions on physical activities and stress. Resigning from your job in this case allows you to focus on your health and avoid situations that could compromise your pregnancy.
Unbearable symptoms
Morning sickness, fatigue, and other common pregnancy symptoms can affect your ability to work. Some women experience severe morning sickness (clinically known as hyperemesis gravidarum) that can last throughout pregnancy. If your job demands physical or mental energy you can’t provide due to illness, it may be a good reason to step away.
Focus on family
For some mothers, the decision to resign during pregnancy is driven by a desire to prepare for the arrival of their baby and focus on family life. Transitioning to a full-time role as a parent or homemaker might be a priority for you and your family.
Inadequate maternity leave policies
If your employer offers inadequate maternity leave or doesn’t provide the support you need, you may decide to resign. Balancing a demanding job with limited maternity leave can be stressful and may not align with your priorities as a new parent.
Emotional and physical well-being
Pregnancy can be emotionally and physically taxing, and your work environment may contribute to added stress. If the stress of work is taking a toll on your mental and physical health during pregnancy, you may decide to resign for the sake of your well-being.
Physical job demands
Some jobs require a high level of physical activity, such as standing for long periods, heavy lifting, or repetitive motions. These physical demands can become increasingly difficult as your pregnancy progresses. If your role involves strenuous physical activity that poses a risk to your health or the health of your baby, you may choose to resign to prioritize safety and well-being.
Note: “Your employer can’t pressure you into resigning,” Michael says. “It is illegal for employers to discriminate against employees due to pregnancy, so if they are coercing you into resigning, that is a major problem. This is something to see an employment lawyer about.”
Potential benefits and drawbacks
Before making the decision to resign, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons.
Some benefits of doing it could be:
- Time to focus on health: Quitting can allow you to focus on self-care, rest, and preparing for the baby.
- Less stress: Leaving a stressful work environment may improve your mental and emotional well-being.
- Better family preparation: You have more time to make arrangements for the baby, set up childcare, and settle into your new routine.
The main drawbacks are:
- Loss of income: Quitting may lead to financial strain, especially if you’re the primary breadwinner or if you don’t have substantial savings. It also may affect your retirement savings. “Leaving may entitle you to roll over any retirement accounts to IRA/Roth IRA's and/or to take a distribution—likely with some tax and penalty implications, depending on how you do it,” says Michael Trust, JD, Human Resources Leader and CA Certified Mediator at Michael Trust Consulting.
- Loss of benefits: You could lose health insurance or other benefits that may be crucial during and after pregnancy.
- Career impact: Resigning during pregnancy may affect your career progression or require you to explain employment gaps in future job searches.
How to resign due to pregnancy—the right way
“When it comes to resigning the right way, the key is to be respectful and professional,” Ladah says. “It's tempting to just walk away, especially if you're feeling overwhelmed, but leaving on good terms can help maintain relationships that might be useful later on.”
If you’re asking, “how do I professionally quit my job due to pregnancy?” here are your answers.
Provide proper notice
It’s standard to give at least two weeks' notice, but if your company has a different policy, be sure to follow that. This gives your employer time to find a replacement and ensures a smoother transition.
“Give as much notice as you can,” Trust says. “However, consider that once you give notice, they might ask you to leave that day or sooner than you planned—which is never a good thing and certainly not when you're about to have a baby.”
Discuss your decision in person
Whenever possible, discuss your resignation in person or via a video call with your supervisor. This shows respect for your employer and provides an opportunity for open communication.
Stay positive and professional
Even if your reasons for leaving are related to work stress or dissatisfaction, maintain a positive tone in your discussions and resignation letter. Avoid burning bridges, as you may need a reference in the future.
Offer to help during the transition
If possible, offer to assist in training your replacement or wrapping up any pending projects before your departure. This demonstrates professionalism and leaves a lasting positive impression.
You might also be asked to write a resignation letter because of pregnancy to make your departure more formal.
How to write a letter of resignation due to pregnancy
Crafting a letter of resignation due to pregnancy follows many of the same rules as a standard resignation letter, with some additional considerations.
1. Be clear and concise
State your intention to resign and include your final working day. “Keep it simple,” Ladah says. “You don't have to give every detail about your pregnancy or personal life. Just state that you're resigning due to personal reasons, which include your pregnancy.”
2. Express gratitude
Thank your employer for the opportunities you've had during your time with the company. This helps maintain a positive relationship for future networking.
3. Offer assistance with the transition
Let your employer know that you’re willing to help make the transition smoother by training your replacement or wrapping up ongoing work.
“The letter doesn't need to be overly long or emotional. It's more about being clear, kind, and professional,” Ladah concludes. “By giving enough notice and showing you care about a smooth handover, you keep the door open for future opportunities or at least maintain good relations. It's all about leaving with grace while putting your family first.”
Examples of resignation letter due to pregnancy
If you want to know how to write a resignation letter for pregnancy, here are some examples for writing a letter of resignation in pregnancy-related situations:
Example #1: Resignation due to pregnancy complications or illness
Subject: Resignation due to pregnancy complications
Dear [Supervisor’s name],
After much consideration, I have decided to resign from my role as [Your job title] at [Company name], effective [Last working day]. Due to severe pregnancy-related illness/complications, my doctor has advised me to reduce stress and focus on my health and the well-being of my baby.
I have enjoyed being part of the team and am grateful for the experience. I’m happy to assist in the transition process before my departure.
Thank you for your support.
Sincerely,
[Your name]
Example #2: Resignation due to focus on family
Subject: Resignation to Focus on Family
Dear [Supervisor’s name],
I am writing to inform you of my decision to resign from my position as [Your job title] at [Company name], effective [Last working day]. As my pregnancy progresses, I have decided to focus on preparing for the arrival of my child and dedicating my time to my family.
I am deeply appreciative of the opportunities I’ve had to grow in my role and contribute to [Company name]. Please let me know how I can assist during this transition period to ensure a smooth handover of my responsibilities.
Thank you for your understanding and support.
Sincerely,
[Your name]
Example #3: Resignation due to inadequate maternity leave policies
Subject: Resignation Due to Maternity Leave Policies
Dear [Supervisor’s name],
After careful consideration, I am resigning from my position as [Your job title] at [Company name], effective [Last working day]. Unfortunately, the company's maternity leave policies do not provide the support I require as I prepare for the arrival of my child.
I have enjoyed my time at [Company name] and am grateful for the professional development and opportunities I’ve experienced. I am happy to help make the transition process as smooth as possible.
Thank you for your understanding.
Sincerely,
[Your name]
Example #4: Resignation due to physical job demands
Subject: Resignation Due to Physical Job Demands During Pregnancy
Dear [Supervisor’s name],
I am writing to submit my immediate resignation due to pregnancy from my position as [Your job title] at [Company name], effective [Last working day]. Due to the physical demands of my role and the potential risks to my health during pregnancy, I believe it is in my best interest to step down at this time to focus on my well-being and that of my baby.
I appreciate the opportunities I’ve had at [Company name] and am grateful for the support of the team. Please let me know how I can assist with the transition.
Thank you for your understanding.
Sincerely,
[Your name]
FAQs
Should I mention my pregnancy in the resignation letter?
Yes, but keep it brief. You don’t need to provide extensive details, but a short mention of your pregnancy as the reason for your resignation is appropriate.
How much notice should I give when resigning due to pregnancy?
It’s standard to give two weeks’ notice, but check your company policy. Some may require more time.
Can I reapply to the company after resigning due to pregnancy?
Absolutely! If you leave on good terms and maintain a positive relationship, there’s no reason you can’t try to get rehired at a later date.
How do I turn down a job due to pregnancy?
If you’ve received a job offer but need to decline due to pregnancy, it’s important to remain professional and honest in your response. You don’t need to go into great detail about your personal situation, but a polite and concise explanation can help maintain a positive relationship with the employer.