Boss making comments to me during my pregnancy

[ZingyOpalRaven]

I don't know if this is me being overly sensitive (which I know I can be) but my manager has started making comments about my increased appetite during my pregnancy, she keeps doing this very loudly infront of everyone. She is even implying I'm forcefully grabbing food of other colleagues when I was asked if I wanted to have some of his food, I asked are you sure, she said yes so I accepted, she's now repeating this story to everyone. I yawned and she made a patronising comment, I spelt something wrong and she made a big thing of this and implied its because I'm just so tired. I'm getting fed up of this, and I'm not wanting to eat so much because of the constant comments

Do you have a private place where you can eat lunch?

It’s such a tricky situation - I was in a similar position than you not about food but about how many times I went to the toilet… it’s really uncomfortable position to be in

You’re not being overly sensitive. What your boss is doing is so inappropriate and borders on bullying and harassment. Even more so if she’s being persistent and making you feel uncomfortable or humiliated in front of others.

im really sorry you’re going through this. Your employer has a legal duty to treat you fairly and not subject you to unfavourable treatment because of your pregnancy.

at first point what I would suggest is to speak to your manager and mention how this makes you feel. I’d suggest this if you feel safe and comfortable taking to her. Sometimes people do not realise their words come out as harsh and she may not realise she’s making you feel uncomfortable. Sometimes speaking about it can sort it out initially. If you don’t feel comfortable speaking to her I would then look to do the following.

Keep a written log of behaviours that made you uncomfortable. Who was there to witness it. The date and time etc and how it made you feel. If you need to escalate the examples can help.

Speak to another manager or Hr.

and lastly seek professional advice through Acas, Citizens bureau or Pregnant then screwed.

most importantly take care of yourself first and foremost. You don’t need this stress when you’re pregnant. Making sure you’re comfortable and eating well for you and baby is absolutely normal.

I hope it gets easier. Sending you love.