äitiysloman

Maternity leave, known in Finnish as äitiysloma, is a period of absence from work granted to new mothers in Finland. It is a statutory right designed to allow parents to care for their newborn child. The duration and specifics of äitiysloma are governed by Finnish labor law and social security regulations. Typically, it begins a few weeks before the expected due date and extends for a significant period after birth.

During äitiysloma, the mother is entitled to receive maternity benefits, which are a form of income replacement paid by Kela, the Social Insurance Institution of Finland. The amount of these benefits is usually based on the parent's previous earnings. This financial support is crucial for enabling parents to focus on their child without undue financial stress.

The system is designed to promote both the well-being of the child and the recovery and bonding of the mother. It also acknowledges the importance of parental leave in establishing a healthy family environment. While äitiysloma specifically refers to the mother's leave, it is part of a broader parental leave system in Finland that allows for shared parental responsibilities. Parents can choose to divide the remaining leave period between them, promoting gender equality in childcare. The aim is to support families during a significant life transition.