Week 24: The D Word

In this modern age, it seems us women can have it all, especially when it comes to having a family. On the surface, it seems we can. New laws mean mums-to-be can now legally take a year off, fathers get paternity leave and most workplaces offer flexible working - but have these changes really made a difference in the attitude of people in the workplace?

I think not and now Denise Van Outen has come out publicy saying she believes she was axed from the BBC's latest TV talent show with Andrew Lloyd Webber due to her being pregnant.

Not only has the gorgeous Denise been dropped but she's been replaced by a much younger presenter, Charlotte Church. As Denise proved at the recent Fashion For Relief show, she's still gorgeous and fit and able to work, saying "'I am not ill, I am just having a baby."

I too feel like I've been discriminated somewhat at work. On one hand, it seems I'm not allowed to be pregnant and if I complain of any pregnancy related illnesses or tiredness after working a 12 hour day, it's not really taken seriously. On the other hand, I was recently replaced for a stint on camera. Now I'm not fronting a huge BBC show, but just a few online videos, but it suddenly seemed that senior management thought a younger, more famous face should front the most recent video. My presenting has never been questioned before - in fact, that same senior management praised the videos I'd done in the past and suggested I do more, even given me more budget to do so.

I'd like to think they wanted a famous face and that was why I was dropped, however, the company I work for (as is the same for most companies) is run by men, for men and I feel they probably don't really like to consider pregnancy in the workplace. After all, I bet most of these senior men have wives who have never worked after their pregnancy. Some of us however need to - whether it's financial or emotional - and yet I don't think it's ever taken seriously. When I return to work next year, I know I will have been forgotten and will have to strive to make my mark once more. Yet, the job I'm doing at the moment - becoming a mum - is probably one of the most important in the world. I don't want anyone to pander to my needs, just to appreciagte what I'm going through now and support me in my return to work.

I'm hoping we get to see lots more of Denise once she's popped the baby out, but I fear that sexism and ageism is just to rife and she may find - as I will - her career having to suffer for her child. If men could have children, I feel the status quo would be oh so different!