Should I Be Changing Jobs While Pregnant or Trying to Conceive?

Considering a career transition while trying to conceive is a deeply personal and often tender crossroads. It can stir up excitement, uncertainty, and vulnerability.

You're balancing hopes for the future with your present needs, all while trying to make the "right" choice in a season of change. If this question resonates, you're not alone. Many people wonder about changing jobs while pregnant during this vulnerable time. Below are reflections, upsides, challenges, and practical steps to help guide your decision whether you're already pregnant and job hunting or considering a career change while trying to conceive.

Pregnant and Job Hunting? Questions to Reflect On

Why do I want to change roles right now?

Is it to reduce stress? Find more meaning? Escape a toxic environment? Clarifying your why can help you decide if this is the right time, or move.

What kind of environment will support me best if I become pregnant soon?

Consider company policies, flexibility, manager support, and how comfortable you’d feel sharing pregnancy news.

How secure do I need to feel right now?

Would a new role bring more stability, or add stress at a vulnerable time?

Am I delaying a needed change out of fear or guilt?

It’s common to hesitate about job hunting while TTC. Some worry they won’t be seen as a “good hire,” but your wellbeing and career fulfillment matter too.

The Upside: Why Changing Roles Might Be the Right Move

You could move to a more flexible, values-aligned, or parent-supportive workplace. A fresh start might boost your mental health and energy, key when TTC. For those considering changing jobs while pregnant, you're investing in your future self, as a professional and a potential parent. Switching jobs while pregnant can actually provide better benefits and support systems than staying in an unsupportive environment.

Things to Keep in Mind

Probation periods: You may not qualify for enhanced maternity benefits in a new role unless employed for a certain period (in the UK, usually 26 weeks by your 15th week of pregnancy). This is a crucial consideration when changing jobs while pregnant.

Emotional capacity: TTC can be draining. So can afford starting a new job? How much change can you manage right now? Your mental health should be a priority in this decision.

Job security: There's comfort in the familiar, especially with support systems in place. Weigh the risks and benefits when considering switching jobs while pregnant or while trying to conceive.

Supportive Steps You Can Take

Research parental leave and return-to-work policies before applying. Consider working with a career coach (like me, if helpful!) to explore your options. Explore internal changes; sometimes, a role shift within your current company offers renewal without upheaval. Document early conversations about flexibility or expectations to set yourself up for success.

If you find yourself pregnant and job hunting, remember that you have rights and protections. Focus on finding employers who value work-life balance and support their employees' mental health and wellbeing. The process of changing jobs while pregnant or trying to conceive requires extra care, but it's absolutely possible with the right approach and support. 

Final Thought

There’s no perfect timing for life transitions, but there is a grounded, self-honouring path. Whether you stay, shift, or leap, you deserve a career that supports your values and your evolving life. The decision about changing jobs while pregnant or while trying to conceive is deeply personal and should be based on your overall wellbeing.

If you’d like support thinking this through, I’m here to help.

Here are some helpful resources Sarah recommends around the theme:

Job boards like The Mom Project, Fairygodboss, and PowerToFly offer career opportunities tailored to women and parents.

For resume and interview support, tools such as Teal HQ, Resume Worded, and the blog Ask a Manager can be incredibly useful.

When it comes to legal protection, platforms like the EEOC (US), Pregnant Then Screwed (UK), and Workplace Fairness offer guidance and support.

For community and connection, online spaces like Reddit TTC, Peanut, HeyMama, and the Nugget app provide forums to share experiences and advice.

Finally, for coaching and mentorship, resources like Career Contessa, Mindful Return, and LinkedIn Premium offer structured support for navigating career transitions, particularly around parenting and work.