Sünnituspuhkus

Sünnituspuhkus, commonly translated as maternity leave, is a period of absence from work granted to new mothers before and after childbirth. The duration and conditions of this leave vary significantly by country and often depend on employment status and length of service. In many jurisdictions, maternity leave is a legal right, intended to protect the health and well-being of both the mother and the newborn, allowing time for recovery and bonding.

During maternity leave, the employee is typically entitled to job protection, meaning their position is held for them until their return. In addition to job security, many countries provide financial support during this period, which can be in the form of wage replacement or a specific allowance. This financial assistance is often funded through social security systems or employer contributions. The exact amount and duration of financial support are usually regulated by law.

The concept of parental leave has evolved to encompass broader responsibilities, with some countries offering paid or unpaid leave for both parents. This allows fathers or non-birthing parents to also take time off to care for the child. The length of maternity leave can range from a few weeks to over a year, with some parents choosing to take additional unpaid leave. The ability to take maternity leave is considered an important aspect of work-life balance and gender equality in the workplace.