Pregnancy is a physically and emotionally demanding process that requires proper medical attention and care. For pregnant workers in India, these challenges are exacerbated by the added burden of working long hours in often physically demanding jobs with little access to health care. We need to understand the challenges they face and how to deal with them.
Physical Risks
Pregnant workers in India often take on physically demanding jobs such as agriculture and construction, which can put them at risk of complications such as bleeding, infection and disability at work. According to a study conducted by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Labour Organization (ILO), women who work in agriculture have a higher risk of preterm delivery and low birth weight babies, which can lead to long-term health problems for the child (WHO and ILO, 2019).
Lack of proper health and safety precautions and long working hours can exacerbate these risks. For example, pregnant women who work in agriculture may be exposed to pesticides, which can cause foetal abnormalities and developmental delays (Das and Pradhan, 2020). Women who work in construction may also be exposed to hazardous materials and unsafe working conditions, which can lead to injuries and complications during pregnancy (Hegde, 2018).
Limited Access to Healthcare
Pregnant labourers in India also have limited access to healthcare, particularly in rural areas. According to a study conducted by the National Sample Survey Office (NSSO), only 56% of pregnant women in rural areas receive antenatal care, compared to 73% in urban areas (NSSO, 2015). This lack of access to medical care can lead to delayed diagnosis and treatment of complications, with serious consequences for both mother and child.
Discrimination and Exploitation
Pregnant workers in India are also discriminated against and exploited in the workplace. They are paid less than men and may be denied promotion opportunities. According to a report by Human Rights Watch, many employers force pregnant workers to take unpaid leave or even terminate their employment if their pregnancy is seen as interfering with their work (Human Rights Watch, 2019).
This discrimination is a violation of Indian labour laws, which prohibit discrimination against pregnant women in the workplace. The Maternity Benefit Act of 1961 provides for paid leave for pregnant women and prohibits termination of employment during pregnancy and maternity leave. However, these laws are often flouted due to weak enforcement mechanisms and a lack of awareness among workers and employers.
Emotional and Social Challenges
The emotional and social challenges of pregnancy are exacerbated for pregnant workers in India as well. Many women face stigma and discrimination because of their pregnancy, especially if they are unmarried or from marginalized communities. They may be subjected to superstitious beliefs and myths, or face pressure to undergo unsafe abortions if their pregnancy is unwanted (Sulakshana, 2017).
Support and Solutions
Despite these challenges, pregnant workers in India often have no choice but to continue working to support their families. They may resort to traditional medicines or seek support from the community, but these solutions are often inadequate to manage job risks and stress.
Stronger legal protections and recognition of workers’ rights are needed to address the challenges facing pregnant workers in India. Employers must take responsibility for their actions and ensure safe and healthy working conditions for pregnant workers. Pregnant women should also have access to appropriate health care and support, including information about their rights and entitlements.
The Indian government has taken some steps to address the challenges faced by pregnant labourers. In 2017, the Ministry of Labour and Employment issued guidelines for the protection of pregnant women and women with new-borns in the workplace, which includes provisions for rest breaks, flexible work hours, and the provision of crèche facilities. However, these guidelines are not legally binding, and compliance is voluntary.
India also needs more social awareness and support for pregnant workers. Community organizations and civil society groups can play an important role in providing support and information to pregnant women and defending their rights and well-being. Campaigns to raise awareness of the risks and challenges faced by pregnant workers can also help reduce stigma and discrimination.
Conclusion
The condition of pregnant workers in India is a concern as women face various physical, emotional and social challenges. These challenges are exacerbated by lack of access to health care, workplace discrimination and weak legal protections. Addressing these challenges requires stronger legal protections, increased awareness of workers’ rights, and increased social support and awareness-raising. By working together, we can ensure that pregnant workers in India receive the care and support they need to ensure a healthy pregnancy and safe childbirth.
References
Das, R., & Pradhan, M. (2020). Maternal and child health in India: An overview. Indian Journal of Public Health Research and Development, 11(4), 232-237.
Hegde, V. (2018). Occupational health hazards of women construction workers in India. Journal of Health Management, 20(1), 57-65.
Human Rights Watch. (2019). ‘Pregnant and fired’: Discrimination against women in India’s workplace. Retrieved from https://www.hrw.org/report/2019/12/09/pregnant-and-fired/discrimination-against-women-indias-workplace.
National Sample Survey Office. (2015). Key indicators of social consumption in India: Health. Retrieved from http://mospi.nic.in/sites/default/files/publication_reports/KI_Health_75th_Final.pdf.
Sulakshana, N. (2017). Social issues in pregnancy: Stigma and discrimination. Journal of South Asian Federation of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, 9(2), 104-108.
World Health Organization & International Labour Organization. (2019). Women at work: Trends 2016-2018. Retrieved from https://www.ilo.org/wcmsp5/groups/public/—dgreports/—dcomm/documents/publication/wcms_732067.pdf.
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