Pregnancy Discrimination

Both state and federal law prohibit harassment and discrimination against employees or applicants because of pregnancy or perceived pregnancy. Harassment or discrimination based on pregnancy is considered illegal sex discrimination under state and federal law.¹ California law also prohibits employment discrimination and harassment against an employee on the basis of childbirth, breastfeeding and related medical conditions, which is a form of discrimination based on a person’s sex.²

For more information, see Sex and Gender and Pregnancy Disability Leave.“Perceived pregnancy” is defined by California regulations as “being regarded or treated by an employer or³