Welcoming a child is a major life event, and labour laws increasingly acknowledge this. Maternity benefits usually include paid leave for mothers around childbirth, job protection during pregnancy, and sometimes medical coverage. The length of leave and amount of pay depend on local laws and company policies, but the core idea is to ensure that women are not forced to choose between health and employment.
During pregnancy, employers may be required to avoid hazardous tasks, offer flexible arrangements, or provide reasonable rest. Terminating or discriminating against a woman simply because she is pregnant or has taken maternity leave is generally prohibited.
Paternity benefits are a newer and evolving area. Some jurisdictions and progressive employers provide paternity leave or shared parental leave, allowing fathers or partners to participate more actively in early childcare.
For both parents, workplace childcare facilities, flexible hours or remote work options can complement statutory benefits. Knowing your entitlements in advance helps you plan and pushes employers to meet their legal obligations.