The different areas and work environments in the hospital sector have a complex
set of occupational risk factors that can negatively impact the health of
pregnant workers. Illness among this workforce results in sick leave due to
work-related diseases and pregnancy, with high absenteeism. The main objective
of this study was to review the available literature on the gestational and
occupational risks to which pregnant health workers are exposed, causes of
absenteeism, and issues related to maternity protection and work in the hospital
sector. The authors used online databases to identify papers published in
English from 2015 to 2020, based on the PRISMA Extension for Scoping Reviews and
three steps of Snowballing. The study reviewed 18 peer-reviewed scientific
articles that address pregnancy, work, absenteeism, and maternity protection.
Most studies used a quantitative approach (12) and cohort studies in particular
(6). The distribution of articles by themes was as follows: pregnancy, health
and safety at work (11); pregnancy, health conditions, and absenteeism (13); and
work and maternity protection (10). Some inferences were possible from the
themes raised. However, the results revealed a gap and the need for specific
studies for healthcare workers in the hospital sector, focusing on maternity.
This review contributes to more in-depth studies on developing programs,
actions, and legislation to protect maternity in hospital working
environments.