I'm a stay at home Mom so I don't get paid regardless, but I'm horrified by the US government's lack of care when it comes to new mothers. In Brazil, you get 4 months of paid leave after having a baby. Unknown to many, you can get something like an additional 15 days if you are breastfeeding.
So is it the government's job to help out in this way? Just because we decided to procreate, the Man is supposed to open his pockets and help a girl out?
I think he should! The first couple of months is very important in a baby's life for many reasons. If you are breastfeeding, 4 months home will make a big difference in establishing milk supply. It's also important for parent/child bonding.
In regards to work, I really don't understand why a place of employment would be so eager to have a sleep deprived Momma hanging out in the office. Just the hormone change alone will make you a cranky bastard. Add in sleep deprivation, aching for our little one(s), and the stress of working two jobs and you have a not so pleasant situation for everyone involved.
Yes, being a working mother means you have two jobs... that is, of course, unless you have a nanny. In that case you have a job and a half.
I also believe that Dads should get maternity leave for at least 2 weeks if not a month. Let the Daddy be involved! He also needs to bond, help out Momma, get his baby land legs. A new baby takes team work.
Check out the table at NPR: . It's amazing how the US is the only industrialized country with unpaid leave. Hell, most of Africa has some sort of maternity leave benefits! What do you guys think of this? Are you happy with your country's plan? Do you have maternity leave benefits envy? I know I do.
