Maternity leave is the most sought after leave of married ladies in corporate offices. Generally its 3 months long. There has often been a debate about extending it. Here are three perspectives that I would like to bring forward:
Women
Ladies generally work till the 9th month and then go for this leave right before delivery. After delivery they become weak and the three months are needed for recovery. Even after 3 months the child is completely dependent on the mother. As a result many women go for a leave without pay or sabbatical after their maternity leaves. Those who continue generally create a support system of inlaws, nannies and day-care centers. Many of them even leave their jobs. Therefore women feel that the leave should be extended for 2 years.
Men
Generally the paternity leave is of 1 week in corporate offices. This is often the cause of envy of the men. They too feel like spending time with their newborn child, seeing him/her speak first word or take their first steps. They keep calling home after every 1 hour to know the status of their child. They often comment that Paternity leave should be increase to atleast 6 months.
Company
Now we come to the company. They have to pay the female candidates during the maternity leave. If we see from their perspective its a great expense but the corporate culture always encourages it. Increasing it to 2 years will be a big hit on their budget. On top of it if its increased then men too will demand that the paternity leave be increased.
This debate will continue forever. These days women have really excelled in creating a support system. Merrisa Mayer has proved that a mother of a new born baby can do wonders.
Myriad Notions 