Pregnant Employees in California: Know Your Rights

Nearly half of all U.S. workers are women, and many will become pregnant at some point during their careers. Unfortunately, even in 2025, pregnancy discrimination and retaliation for pregnancy leave remain common in California workplaces.

If you are pregnant, recently took pregnancy disability leave, or requested accommodations related to pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding, it’s critical to understand your legal rights—and what to do if your employer violates them.

What Laws Protect Pregnant Workers in California?

California employees are protected by strong federal and state laws that prohibit pregnancy-based discrimination, harassment, and retaliation.

Federal Laws

Pregnancy Discrimination Act (PDA) of 1978
Part of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, the PDA makes it unlawful for employers with 15 or more employees to:

• Refuse to hire someone because they are pregnant or may become pregnant
• Fire or demote an employee because of pregnancy
• Deny promotions or benefits due to pregnancy
• Refuse time off for pregnancy-related conditions
• Fail to reinstate a pregnant employee after leave

Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA)
The FLSA requires that employers provide reasonable accommodations for breastfeeding, including time and space to pump breast milk. Employers may not retaliate or dock pay for taking this time.

California State Laws

Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA)
Under FEHA, it is illegal for employers to discriminate, harass, or retaliate against employees based on pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions, including breastfeeding. FEHA applies to California employers with five or more employees.

California Pregnancy Disability Leave Law (PDLL)
PDLL entitles eligible employees to up to four months of job-protected leave for pregnancy-related disabilities, including:

• Morning sickness
• Pre- or post-natal complications
• Bed rest
• Postpartum depression

Unlike many other leave laws, PDLL applies from your first day of work—no minimum employment period is required.

What Should You Do If Your Employer Violates Your Rights?

If you’ve experienced:

• Retaliation for taking pregnancy leave
• Refusal to accommodate pregnancy-related needs
• Discrimination for being pregnant or breastfeeding
• Termination or demotion after announcing your pregnancy

You may have a claim under California or federal law.

At AC SoCal Law PC, we offer free and confidential consultations to evaluate your situation and help you understand your options. We proudly represent pregnant employees across all California counties—from San Diego to the Bay Area.

Why Choose AC SoCal Law PC?

• Experienced pregnancy discrimination attorneys
• No upfront fees—we only get paid if we win
• Court costs covered by us

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