Maternity protection

Swiss maternity protection combines labour law, health and safety, and social insurance rules. Pregnant employees and breastfeeding mothers benefit from limits on dangerous or arduous work, special working-time protections, and safeguards against dismissal during protected periods. After birth, mothers are entitled to maternity leave and income replacement if eligibility conditions are met. Employers must adapt work where necessary and respect medical restrictions. Protection also covers discrimination connected with pregnancy or maternity, including hiring, working conditions, promotion, and termination decisions.