Job Loss During Pregnancy

Losing your job while pregnant can feel overwhelming — but you’re not alone, and you still have options. If you're pregnant and fired in Pennsylvania, there are legal protections, support systems, and even life-changing opportunities available to help you create a better future for yourself and your baby.

Whether you’re searching for financial help, legal information, or a compassionate guide through this difficult time, this article is here for you.

Speak with a specialist today to discover how American Adoptions can help you take back control and choose a brighter future.

I’m Pregnant and Fired — What Are My Rights in Pennsylvania?

Being pregnant and fired from your job can raise questions about your rights — and in Pennsylvania, you are protected by both state and federal laws.

Federal Protections:

This federal law prohibits employers from discriminating against employees because of pregnancy, childbirth, or related conditions.

If you’ve worked at your company for at least a year, you may qualify for up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave due to pregnancy-related health issues.

Requires reasonable accommodations for pregnancy-related limitations — like more frequent breaks or light duty.

Pennsylvania Protections:

Pennsylvania Human Relations Act (PHRA): This state law echoes federal protections and allows you to file a claim for wrongful termination if you were pregnant and fired from work based on your condition.

If you believe your firing was due to pregnancy discrimination, you may be entitled to legal remedies. You can file a complaint at the state and federal level.

Can I Get Unemployment if I’m Pregnant and Fired From Work in PA?

The answer depends on why you lost your job.

Pennsylvania law requires unemployment applicants to be “able and available to work.” If you were fired due to pregnancy discrimination, you may be eligible for unemployment benefits — but if you voluntarily left or were terminated for cause unrelated to discrimination, eligibility may be affected.

If you’re wondering, “Can I get unemployment if I’m pregnant and can’t work?”, the answer is usually no — but there may be other financial options available to you, including adoption financial assistance.

What to Do If You’re Pregnant and Can’t Work (Physically or Emotionally)

If you’re pregnant and can’t work because of fatigue, illness, or stress, you are not alone. Many women feel pregnant and too tired to work, especially in the later stages of pregnancy or when facing emotional challenges like job loss.

Here’s what you can do:

Single, Pregnant, and Unemployed: Your Options for Support

Being single, unemployed, and pregnant can feel isolating — but Pennsylvania has several resources designed to help you.

Here are 5 programs that provide support in Pennsylvania:

WIC (Women, Infants, and Children): WIC provides supplemental nutrition, health care referrals, breastfeeding support, and nutrition education for eligible pregnant and postpartum women, infants, and children under age 5. In Pennsylvania, the WIC program supports you in maintaining a healthy pregnancy and raising a healthy child with access to nutritious food and personalized care.
Pennsylvania Medicaid for Pregnant Women: This program offers full health coverage for low-income pregnant women, covering doctor visits, prenatal care, hospital stays, prescriptions, and more. You can apply anytime during your pregnancy and receive continuous coverage through postpartum recovery, ensuring both you and your baby get the care you need.
Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF): TANF offers cash assistance and employment services for low-income families, including single mothers. If you’re pregnant and unable to work, TANF can help cover basic needs like rent, food, and transportation while connecting you with work training programs to support long-term stability.
Healthy Beginnings Plus (HBP): Part of Pennsylvania’s Medicaid, HBP focuses on improving access to prenatal care for women who may not otherwise afford it. Services include maternity care coordination, childbirth education, and support services to ensure a healthy pregnancy and birth outcome.
211 Pennsylvania: This free and confidential service connects individuals with local resources including housing, food assistance, pregnancy support groups, and parenting programs. Whether you need emergency shelter, mental health care, or baby supplies, 211 can help you find programs near you with a simple phone call or online search.

Even with these resources, you may still feel overwhelmed. If you're pregnant and unemployed, adoption may provide a more stable and empowering solution for your situation.

Adoption as a Loving Option If You’re Pregnant and Facing Job Loss

If you're pregnant and lost your job, adoption can be a brave and loving choice that creates a brighter future for your baby and peace of mind for you. With adoption in Pennsylvania:

Pennsylvania law permits licensed adoption professionals like American Adoptions to cover your pregnancy-related expenses.

You’re not giving up. You’re giving your baby a better future — and reclaiming your own.

How American Adoptions Supports Women Facing Pregnancy and Unemployment

At American Adoptions, we specialize in helping women who are pregnant and unemployed or pregnant and lost their job. If you choose adoption, our services are always 100% free to you.

We provide:

Financial assistance for living expenses, based on your unique needs
24/7 access to licensed counselors
Personalized adoption planning
Freedom to choose the adoptive family
Post-placement support
Offices and professionals available throughout Pennsylvania

Our team has helped thousands of women navigate unplanned pregnancies with compassion and clarity.

Birth mothers like you deserve real help, not judgment. We’re here to listen — and to guide you every step of the way.

Choose a Brighter Future — for You and Your Baby

You don’t have to go through this alone. Whether you’re pregnant and fired from job, pregnant and can’t work, or unemployed and pregnant, there is support waiting for you.

Don’t wait — speak with an adoption specialist today to get the support you deserve

Imagine a future filled with hope, stability, and peace — it starts with one conversation.

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