Planning for Parenthood

We value our employees and their families, so we have developed a special combination of programs, benefits and extras to support expecting mothers, their partners and their babies.

Finding a Pediatrician

Selecting a pediatrician for your baby prior to delivery is an important step in your preparation.

Your health care provider might have recommendations for pediatricians in your area. If not, employees participating in one of GW's medical plans can search for a health care provider in their area by visiting aetna.com.

Not sure what to look for when selecting a pediatrician? Check out this Baby Center guide on "Choosing a doctor for your baby."

Take a Class

Childbirth and parenting classes are a great way to prepare for labor and delivery and taking care of your new baby. The George Washington University Hospital offers a wide selection of classes, including Prenatal Yoga, Childbirth Preparation and Infant CPR.

If you are planning to deliver at GW Hospital, you should also consider signing up for a free Prenatal Tour.

GW's Employee Assistance Program has a large library of articles, podcasts, videos and webinars related to pregnancy and caring for your child from birth through college.

Paid Parental Leave and FMLA

GW provides up to six continuous weeks of paid parental leave for eligible regular full-time staff. Faculty, Medical Residents and Postdocs should review their respective leave policy handbooks for parental leave information.

Eligible GW employees can take job protected leave under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) and/or other state and local leave laws. Applying for FMLA is important, not only because it is required of you as an employee, but also because it protects your job while you are out on leave. Even if you are planning to use sick or vacation time during your leave period, you must still apply for FMLA. University policy requires at least 30 days’ notice for FMLA leave.

While you are applying for FMLA, we recommend that you review GW's short-term disability plans. Depending on your years of service and coverage, you may be entitled to disability pay during your FMLA leave.

In addition to short-term disability, you may use your available sick and vacation time to cover some or all of your time away (depending on your time off balances). You may also take unpaid time.

Employee Assistance Program

Are you considering using a Doula during labor? Do you need a pet sitter while you are in the hospital after your baby is born? Call GW's Employee Assistance Program and a consultant can help you meet many of your daily life needs.

Pregnancy and Postpartum Support

If you are pregnant and covered under the GW PPO or HSP medical plan, you are eligible (and encouraged) to participate in the Pregnancy and Postpartum Support Program through Progyny. The program provides ongoing support, guidance, and education for expecting parents and those newly postpartum. For more information, review the benefit overview and FAQs or call 833-233-0557 to speak to a Progyny Pregnancy and Postpartum Coach (PPC). Program participants also have the opportunity to earn financial incentives.

Note: Postdocs are eligible for the Aetna Enhanced Maternity Program described on the Postdoc Benefits webpage.

Helpful Resources

Advocacy Resources for Expecting Parents (PDF)