Antenatal appointments

Antenatal appointments are part of routine pregnancy care, and staff have legal rights around time off to attend them.

Your responsibilities

Pregnant employees

Pregnant employees have the right to reasonable paid time off for antenatal appointments and care.

Fathers and other non-birth parents

Partners are entitled to unpaid time off to accompany the pregnant person to up to two antenatal appointments (up to 6.5 hours per appointment).

In practice, many employers are flexible and supportive, but approaches vary depending on role and workplace culture. Clear guidance helps avoid confusion and awkwardness.Pregnant staff

Pregnant employees have the right to reasonable time off with full pay for ‘antenatal’ (pregnancy-related) appointments and care.

“Sometimes I felt bad asking because it’s just the way society works… you just crack on and go to work.” (Shane, Medium business employee)

Fertility treatment and high-risk pregnancies

There is no specific legal right to time off for fertility treatment, but appointments should be treated in line with other medical appointments. Staff who become pregnant through fertility treatment have the same maternity rights as other pregnant employees. Pregnancy protection starts from the embryo transfer stage.

High-risk pregnancies and fertility treatment can involve more frequent or unpredictable appointments. These situations benefit from flexibility and understanding.

“Because it’s not the usual pattern, it doesn’t always feel well supported.” (Meghan – Employer, 50-249 staff)

Supportive practices

Being flexible around appointment times where possible
Making sure managers understand rights around antenatal appointments
Being clear about what time off is paid and how appointments should be recorded
Avoiding language that could make staff feel guilty for attending appointments
Recognising that higher-risk pregnancies may involve more frequent appointments
Considering offering paid time off to fathers and partners, especially where there are additional appointments
Encouraging open communication about changing appointment needs

What can employees do to help? They can let you know about any health concerns or changes in their role that might affect their safety at work, so risks can be assessed and managed.