Medical Certificate for Pregnancy-Related Absence

Pregnancy affects every woman differently. Some sail through with minimal symptoms, while others experience severe nausea, fatigue, or complications that make working impossible. All pregnancy-related illness is a valid reason for sick leave.

Pregnancy-Related Conditions Requiring Time Off

Common pregnancy symptoms that may warrant sick leave include:

• Severe morning sickness (hyperemesis gravidarum)
• Extreme fatigue, especially in first and third trimesters
• Back pain or pelvic girdle pain
• Pregnancy-related anaemia
• High blood pressure or pre-eclampsia
• Gestational diabetes management
• Threatened miscarriage or bleeding
• Mental health concerns during pregnancy

Getting a Medical Certificate

You can get a medical certificate for pregnancy-related illness like any other condition. The certificate will state you're unfit for work without necessarily disclosing pregnancy details unless you want it to.

For ongoing pregnancy care and complications, your treating obstetrician, midwife, or GP is usually the best source of certificates as they know your full situation.

Morning Sickness and Hyperemesis

Morning sickness affects up to 80% of pregnant women. For most, it's manageable, but severe morning sickness (hyperemesis gravidarum) can be debilitating.

Signs you may need time off for morning sickness:

• Unable to keep food or fluids down
• Vomiting multiple times per day
• Weight loss due to inability to eat
• Dehydration symptoms
• Too unwell to safely work or commute

Your Workplace Rights

Pregnant employees have specific protections under Australian law:

• You cannot be discriminated against for pregnancy-related illness
• You can use sick leave for pregnancy symptoms like any other illness
• You can request modified duties or "light duties" if your job poses risks
• You have the right to a safe workplace throughout pregnancy
• Your employer cannot make you take parental leave early due to illness

Pregnancy Complications

Some pregnancy complications require immediate rest and medical attention:

• Bleeding at any stage — contact your midwife or hospital
• Severe abdominal pain
• Signs of preterm labour
• High blood pressure or pre-eclampsia symptoms
• Reduced foetal movement

Telehealth During Pregnancy

Telehealth can be appropriate for:

• Medical certificates for morning sickness or fatigue
• General advice about managing symptoms
• Mental health support during pregnancy
• Follow-up after hospital assessments

However, your regular pregnancy care should continue with your obstetrician, midwife, or GP who can monitor you and your baby properly.