New analysis by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) has revealed the long-term earnings and employment impacts of pregnancy loss on working women, including for those affected by ectopic pregnancy.
The research highlights that pregnancy loss can affect more than physical and emotional wellbeing – it can also lead to a significant reduction in earnings and employment. The findings from the ONS cover many types of pregnancy loss including miscarriage, stillbirths, and neonatal deaths as well as data highlighting financial impacts of ectopic pregnancy.
According to the ONS, following an ectopic pregnancy, women experienced:
- A significant reduction in earnings for up to three and a half years after the event, with an estimated total loss of £2,040 in earnings over this period.
- In the quarter in which the ectopic pregnancy occurred, average earnings dropped by £64 per month.
- The likelihood of employment also fell, with a maximum reduction of 0.7 percentage points around one year post-ectopic pregnancy.
- For those who remained in work, there was still a significant reduction in earnings for up to three years, with an average total loss of £1,885 and a maximum drop of £85 per month during the quarter of the ectopic pregnancy.
These statistics underline something we hear often from our community; that the impact of an ectopic pregnancy can reach beyond physical and emotional aspects and can have consequences in the work environment.
Munira Oza, Chief Executive of The Ectopic Pregnancy Trust says:
“Many of the women who we speak with share their experiences about returning to work after pregnancy loss. Sadly some of these experiences are not positive and this research shows the challenges women face in the work environment, both financially and regarding career potential, after pregnancy loss.
It is deeply disappointing but not entirely surprising to read the report’s important findings. Dealing with pregnancy loss is hard enough and having worries about employment and finances can add even more burden as women try to recover from their ordeal.”
At The Ectopic Pregnancy Trust, we regularly hear from people who feel unable to return to work or who struggle with long-term impacts following an ectopic pregnancy. These findings are a stark reminder of the need for greater workplace support, compassionate leave policies, and financial protections for those affected.
We will continue to advocate for improved support and recognition for those impacted by ectopic pregnancy. No one should be left to deal with the physical, emotional, and financial cost alone.
If you’ve experienced an ectopic pregnancy and are struggling, whether emotionally, physically, or financially, please know you’re not alone.
We offer a range of support, including:
- Our support services, such as our helpline, online forum, and email support
- Information on the workplace and talking to your employer
- A compassionate community who understands what you’re going through
You can explore our support options here.
