Here Comes Baby! Maternity and Paternity Leave

Most companies don't provide paid maternity leave - and don't have to. The Family and Medical Leave Act, which only applies if a company has more than 50 employees, ensures mothers should be able to return to their old job or an equivalent job up to 12 weeks after they begin their leave. The actual policy varies from company to company, especially if the company has fewer than 50 employees.

If you are a father, ask your employer about paternity leave. The Family and Medical Leave Act does not cover this time, but many employers are offering the same or similar benefits to their male employees.

Plan monetarily for maternity and paternity leave, as it is unpaid. You may be able to save up sick time and vacation time to continue receiving income for several weeks. But most likely, you will lose some income during this time.

Even though it's costing you money to stay home from work, don't rush back into your hectic world too soon. Pregnancy and birth are very strenuous (sometimes on fathers, too!) and the rest will be very good for both your body and mind.