Blog-Post
Becoming a mom is no longer a career suicide. Women can now do it all. No compromises are needed when it comes to both family and career. Maternity leave is a benefit that all women who work can utilize. It may vary per country when it comes to the duration, pay, and other benefits.
This article will discuss the key things you need to know about maternity leave to ensure your time away from work will be as smooth as possible.
What is Maternity Leave?
Maternity leave is defined as, the period when a mother stops from work - having a child, giving birth, adopting, or fostering. Women use this leave time to recover from childbirth, make life adjustments for the baby, and bond with their child. The local government commonly covers maternity laws, so check what is applicable in your jurisdiction.
Once you have given notice to your company, you will agree on the period that you will be on leave. During your time away, your employer is legally required to hold on to your job so that you can return once your leave is over.
Will I Get Paid While on Maternity Leave?
Getting paid, unpaid, or paid in part maternity leave depends on which country you are located. The majority of companies and countries have policies that will ensure that employees receive some form of maternity pay or allowance while on leave.
Strikingly, it is the U.S. that has no legal provision for paid maternity leave. It does have a 12-week job-protected unpaid maternity leave mandated but, eligibility is not 100%.
How Long Can I Go on Maternity Leave?
Again this depends on your employer or the jurisdiction it operates in. Globally, the average period for maternity leave is around 18 weeks. Maternity leave can be for a few days or up to a year, depending on what benefits you have access to.
Given that the U.S. has no mandate for paid maternity leave, many cannot afford to be off work for a total of 12 weeks. It means that many women see themselves back at work earlier than expected, as they need the income to sustain their daily needs.
What other benefits can I get while on Maternity Leave?
On top of job protection and paid leave, there are other benefits that companies can offer to mothers on maternity leave. From health insurance to paid leaves outside of your maternity leave, knowing what benefits you can receive will be on a case-to-case basis. Check your company’s policy on maternity leave to learn what other benefits extend to you.
Conclusion
Going on maternity leave varies per country and company. While in your early stages of pregnancy or adoption, start asking your HR representative what policies are in place. Studies have shown that maternity leave has proven to benefit both the mother and her baby. This crucial time together has been linked to lower mortality rates, increased duration of breastfeeding, better mother-baby bonding, and overall improved postpartum mental health. It has also been beneficial to companies, as with maternity leave in place, there are better chances that women will stay at their jobs after giving birth.
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