How long do working mothers take maternity leave?

Question

Calling all working mothers! First pregnancy here so I'm new to all of this. My job offers 1 week of maternity leave. Obviously more for the duration of employment but I'm eligible for only 1 week. So that plus my vacation time I get a total of 1 mth paid leave. I also have 40 hrs PTO but figured I'd save that for Dr. visits & etc. I really can't afford to take FMLA because I need a steady income and it's my income alone. I know 3 months is the ideal leave, but has anyone done less? Can 1 mth be enough?

Answer

9 months I'm in UK

Answer

I'm lucky to be able to get 18 months of here in the UK. I feel so bad in mummy's like yourself who get no time at all. Hope you find a solution.

Answer

I live in Canada where we get a year off with atleast 55% of our pay. I never realized that the USA has such terrible maternity leave plans. I feel for you ladies!

Answer

With my first, I had to have an emergency csection -- the doc won't release you to work until at least 6 weeks. And in that case, I ended up having to also have emergency fall bladder removal just two weeks after the csection. So, I wasn't released by the doctor until 12 weeks. Like you, I couldn't afford to not work, but luckily had a great support system to help out. I would certainly plan now to atleast take 6 weeks. Most childcare won't watch your child until then anyway.

With my second, I went back at 8 weeks, which is what I am planning now with my 3rd.

Answer

Thanks for commenting ladies! All you mommies outside of the USA are lucky! My company does offer short term disability and I get 60% of my pay I guess if I had to I could use that. But with a single income I'm gonna need every penny I can get. I've hear different opinions like 3 mths is not enough and some have gone back to work after 2 weeks. I guess if it is nessecary it can be done with a struggle.

Answer

They have to give u 6 weeks it's the law but they don't have to pay u... If everything goes good you can go back at 4 weeks ... I when back at 5 weeks with my 2nd I was ready to go back the Friday after I had him

Answer

I think legally you get 6 weeks. It goes by company policy on if you get paid for that time or not.

Answer

Not enough!! I think FMLA is my only option :(

How long do working mothers take maternity leave?

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