< Insights Hub | Women's & Family Health | Blog

March 4, 2026

Advancing women’s health, protecting the future of health

Supporting your employees’ health through pregnancy leads to better outcomes for all

Women are central to the workforce, and they make up nearly 50% of it.¹ Of these women, 75% will become pregnant at some point while employed.² Providing holistic benefits ensures their best health outcomes throughout their pregnancy. And healthier pregnancies lead to a healthier future for everyone.

Currently, the U.S. has a maternal mortality rate that is up to triple that of other high-income countries.³ Pregnancy brings with it new health routines, questions, and risks. Supporting women through this exciting and challenging time with holistic care not only protects their health and the health of their babies, but also the future health of your organization.

Women who experience high levels of stress while pregnant are at a higher risk for poor health outcomes. Increased levels of stress and anxiety put women at a three-times greater risk of preeclampsia⁴ (a dangerous high blood pressure condition that can lead to seizures, stroke and organ damage) and puts babies at a higher risk of preterm birth and low birth weight.⁵

These complications are not just dangerous for mothers and babies — they also cost millions of dollars in health care every year. The average medical cost for a healthy, full-term baby is $6,400; for low birth weight, the cost jumps to $74,000, and for even a moderately preterm birth it jumps again to $114,000.⁶ NICU stays, needed most often for preterm births, are among the highest drivers of employer health care costs.⁷ In the United States, prolonged hospital stays for women following childbirth cost $350 million annually.⁸ These numbers are staggering, and not every complication can be prevented. But supporting the whole journey of pregnancy and ensuring women have the support and care they need are the best ways to invest in better outcomes.

In fact, employees who felt supported by both coworkers and supervisors benefited from the largest reduction of prenatal stress, which is associated with long-term reductions in postpartum depression and quicker post-birth recovery.⁹ This support can be as simple as being excited for a pregnant employee and as important as accommodating their changing needs.

The most important way to support your pregnant employees is to openly communicate with them about their needs and how their work experience should adapt. Responding positively to a pregnancy announcement is the first step to ensuring employees feel celebrated and valued. Ensure managers and employees are trained on how to be supportive to pregnant coworkers and how to advocate for their needs in the workplace.

While at work, they may need increased breaks, a reduction in physical labor and other accommodations. Make sure that employees understand their parental benefits, including leave or financial planning benefits. Providing holistic health care — covering prenatal care, labor and delivery and postnatal care — ensures the healthiest pregnancy possible and a smoother, more prepared return to work.