As a general rule, employers must treat pregnant employees the same as non-pregnant employees who are similar in their ability to work. There are several common ways in which employers might violate the pregnancy discrimination laws. Another potential protection for pregnant employees is the Family and Medical Leave Act, or “FMLA.” The FMLA provides certain employees with up to 12 weeks of unpaid, but job-protected leave within a given 12-month period for the birth of a child or to care for the newborn. A pregnant employee may be entitled to FMLA maternity leave before the child is born, if her condition makes her unable to work. Once the baby is born, the mother is entitled to FMLA leave to care for the newborn, regardless of the health of the mother or baby.