Pregnancy

During her pregnancy, a woman may be excused from having to go to work or may leave work if she is in pain by a simple notification. She cannot be forced to work overtime.

During an apprentice’s pregnancy and childbirth, the employer must continue to pay the same salary as if the person were on sick leave or had been involved in an accident. The Employment Act (EmpA, SR 822.11) contains special provisions to protect pregnant women, women who have recently given birth and women who breastfeed their children. Women who have recently given birth cannot work during the eight weeks that follow the birth of their child and then, if they wish, they may work up to the 16th week after the birth of their child.