A woman at a small startup posted on Reddit that her employer is trying to fire her after she disclosed her pregnancy.
She joined the company in August 2024 and completed her probation in March 2025. According to her post she’s been top performer and her CEO, manager and colleagues have praised her multiple times
“Be Prepared” Warning After Pregnancy Disclosure
The shift, she claims, came only after she informed the company of her pregnancy in July 2025.
“Recently, my manager had an informal chat with me basically warning me to ‘be prepared’ because the company may try to let me go. I strongly believe this is because they don’t want to pay me during maternity leave, especially since I’m in the higher salary bracket,” she wrote.
The employee added, “I have recorded proof of informing HR and my manager about my pregnancy. I also recorded today’s conversation where my manager hinted at termination.”
She is due in late December or early January and plans to begin maternity leave about eight weeks before her delivery.
Fears of Disguised Termination
In her Reddit post, the woman asked if the company could legally terminate her under the guise of a “business decision.”
“What if they try to mask it as a ‘business decision’ — for example, by saying they are automating parts of my work (I handle content-related responsibilities) and no longer need me?” she questioned.
She sought clarity on her legal protections, asking what steps she should take immediately to safeguard her rights and maternity benefits. “Should I reach out to a labour lawyer or the labour commissioner immediately, or only if they take formal action?” she added.
Seeking Legal Clarity and Support
The employee concluded by stressing her belief that the treatment was discriminatory and an attempt to push her out before her maternity leave began. “I really want to be prepared, because I have every reason to believe this is discrimination and an attempt to push me out before my maternity leave kicks in,” she wrote.
Her post has since sparked conversations online about maternity protections in the workplace, with users urging her to seek immediate legal advice.
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