P
PurpleGirl

5 Ways to Claim Your Right to Maternity Leave at Work

By PurpleGirl Editors•Updated April 2026•5 min read

Are you pregnant and worried about how your workplace will react? Do you fear losing your job or facing discrimination because of your pregnancy? You are not alone. Many Indian women face this fear every day. But here's the good news: you have the right to maternity leave, and we are here to guide you on how to claim it.

What You'll Need

  • A copy of your employment contract
  • Pregnancy proof from a doctor
  • Patience and confidence
1

Check Your Employment Contract

The first step is to check your employment contract to see what it says about maternity leave. In India, the Maternity Benefit Act, 1961, states that every woman is entitled to 26 weeks of maternity leave. But your company may have its own policies, so it's essential to know what you are eligible for.

💡 Tip:Make sure to check the notice period required to apply for maternity leave.
Warning:Don't assume that your company will automatically provide you with the leave, you need to apply for it.
2

Inform Your Employer

Once you have checked your contract, inform your employer about your pregnancy and intention to take maternity leave. This should be done in writing, and you should keep a copy of the letter for your records. Your employer may require a medical certificate from your doctor, so be prepared to provide that as well.

💡 Tip:Keep a record of all communication with your employer, including emails and letters.
Warning:Don't delay in informing your employer, as this can affect your eligibility for leave.

Have a specific question you can't ask anyone? Ask it anonymously. No name. No judgment.

Ask Here →
3

Apply for Maternity Leave

After informing your employer, you need to apply for maternity leave. This usually involves filling out a form and providing supporting documents, such as a medical certificate. Make sure to apply well in advance, so your employer has time to process your application.

💡 Tip:Check with your HR department to see what the procedure is for applying for maternity leave.
Warning:Don't assume that your application will be approved automatically, be prepared to follow up if necessary.
4

Prepare for Your Leave

Once your application is approved, start preparing for your leave. This includes wrapping up your work, training a colleague to take over your responsibilities, and setting up a system for staying in touch with your team while you are away.

💡 Tip:Make a plan for how you will stay connected with your team and keep up with work while you are on leave.
Warning:Don't leave your colleagues with too much work, make sure to delegate tasks and responsibilities.
5

Return to Work

After your leave, you have the right to return to your job. Make sure to discuss your return to work with your employer, including any changes to your role or responsibilities. You may also want to consider flexible working arrangements, such as part-time or work-from-home options.

💡 Tip:Be prepared to discuss your needs and expectations with your employer.
Warning:Don't be afraid to ask for what you need, you have the right to return to your job and continue your career.
PurpleGirl Insight

"Remember, your employer is legally bound to provide you with maternity leave, so don't hesitate to ask for what you deserve."

Frequently Asked Questions

How many weeks of maternity leave am I eligible for?
In India, every woman is entitled to 26 weeks of maternity leave, as per the Maternity Benefit Act, 1961.
Can my employer deny me maternity leave?
No, your employer cannot deny you maternity leave if you are eligible for it. The Maternity Benefit Act, 1961, is a legal right, and your employer is bound to provide you with leave.
Do I need to provide a medical certificate to apply for maternity leave?
Yes, your employer may require a medical certificate from your doctor to confirm your pregnancy and due date. This is usually required to process your application for maternity leave.