Miscarriage and the ADA

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Miscarriage and the ADA

By ribsy
Posted November 2, 2009 at 7:37 pm · 2 replies
In Advocacy
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http://www.adata.org/whatsada-definition.aspx

This link gives the definition and interpretation of disability according to the Americans with Disabilities Act.

I have spoken with multiple governmental agencies about miscarriage as a disability. All of them have said that miscarriage is not considered a disability, even though it fits the criteria.

Does this make sense to anyone?

Does anyone know of a reasoning for excluding miscarriage (especially habitual abortion) from the ADA?

Explore topics in this discussion:

Surgery Abortion Miscarriage Depression

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By 1pair-n-1spare
Posted November 3, 2009 at 9:02 am
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May I ask why you would want it considered a disability?

I lost my child at 22 weeks, and my second child came very early as well, but other than severe depression, and PTSD, I was able to function on a physical level.

My second daughter, who was born just before 28 weeks is disabled... she doesn't walk, can't speak, and is in a wheelchair for life. I am sorry that you have recurrent miscarriages (nobody in life should have to undergo that) but the two issues do not compare.

Lisa

By ribsy
Posted November 3, 2009 at 11:01 am
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As you mentioned, miscarriage has some serious effects. Mentally- depression, PTSD for two. Relationships can take a hit, especially if one of the partners don't understand one another's feelings.

If you want physical effects- there is the need for diagnosis and treatment of the underlying cause. Time off from work for recovery, surgery, and whatever else is needed to correct the situation.

If miscarriage (especially recurrent miscarriage) were considered a disability under the ADA definition, additional protection could be in place to help people dealing with the physical and emotional results .

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