Maternity

Maternity refers to the condition of being a mother and the period surrounding pregnancy and childbirth. In medical contexts, maternity care covers the whole trajectory from prenatal care through labor, birth, and the postpartum period. The term also appears in social policy as maternity leave, a form of job protection and income support for people who are pregnant or have recently given birth.

Prenatal care aims to monitor maternal and fetal health, screen for complications, and provide education. Birth is managed by obstetricians, midwives, or other trained birth attendants, and may occur in hospitals, birth centers, or at home depending on local practice and safety considerations. Postpartum care addresses recovery, nutrition, infant feeding, and emotional well-being for the mother and infant.

Maternity leave policies vary widely by country and employer, including differences in eligibility, duration, and whether the leave is paid. Some systems provide statutory paid leave funded through public programs or social security; others rely on employer-provided benefits or unpaid leave. In many places, access to maternity care and leave is unequal, reflecting broader health and economic disparities.

Maternal health focuses on risks during pregnancy and after birth, such as preeclampsia, diabetes, infection, and postpartum depression. Adequate support, access to health services, and family or partner assistance influence outcomes for both mother and infant.

Historically, the development of modern maternity services and hospital childbirth transformed maternal care, with ongoing reforms addressing safety, equity, and choice. Contemporary discussions often center on expanding paid family leave, ensuring quality maternity care, and addressing disparities in access.