Maternity leave in the U.S. vs other countries: A deep dive on global standards
Parental leave isn’t a nice-to-have bonus. It’s an essential support system that allows families to navigate the life-altering early days of parenthood. Yet, the United States is shockingly behind on this front.
As one of the only countries in the world without a national paid leave policy, lack of paid leave leaves millions of parents struggling to balance their most basic needs. Why is it that so many nations prioritize paid parental leave as a reflection of their commitment to families, but here, parents are left piecing together inadequate solutions?
Across the globe, progressive policies stand as proof that better support is possible — and necessary. American maternity and paternity leave policies aren’t just outdated; they’re a glaring failure to recognize the value of giving parents the time and resources they deserve. It’s past time for change.
At The Lactation Network, we’re exploring how paid parental leave in the U.S. compares to communities across the globe — because change is made possible with a blueprint in mind. Just as we’re taking the necessary steps to change and improve the future of family care in the U.S., so can our country at scale.
Benefits of paid maternity and paternity leave
So, why does paid maternity and paternity leave matter in the first place? Simply put, the impact of paid maternity leave is life-changing for families, providing significant benefits.
When parents receive meaningful support during this crucial time, their stress diminishes, their mental health thrives, and they can forge deeper bonds with their baby — building a foundation of trust and emotional resilience for the child. This well-being also benefits employers, as supported parents return to work more focused, engaged, and loyal. It’s a mutual investment that strengthens families and workplaces alike.
Paid leave has been shown to save lives, leading to lower infant mortality rates and healthier outcomes for mothers, parents, and babies. It also supports breastfeeding families by increasing both the initiation and duration of breastfeeding, fostering long-term health benefits for both parent and child.
Maternity and paternity leave outside of the U.S
Countries with generous parental leave policies provide powerful examples of how parental leave can support families during critical early months of life. These nations understand what we at The Lactation Network so boldly advocate for: That parental leave isn’t a privilege, it’s a fundamental right. Giving families this time to heal, bond, and thrive isn’t a perk — it’s a necessity.
From extended paid time off to shared leave that emphasizes equal parenting roles, the following countries are a few examples that prove prioritizing families is absolutely possible.
- Sweden
In Sweden, parents enjoy 480 days of shared leave, with 90 days reserved exclusively for each parent, ensuring both parents have time to bond with their child. The leave is paid at 80% of their wages, encouraging shared caregiving roles while alleviating financial stress. - Bulgaria
In Bulgaria, mothers are entitled to 410 days of maternity leave paid at 90% of their salary, starting 45 days before their due date. Fathers also have 15 days of paternity leave, and parents can transfer unused leave to one another. - Chile
In the Global South, Chile offers 30 weeks of maternity leave, with six weeks before birth and 24 weeks post-birth, at full pay. Additionally, fathers receive five days of paternity leave, with options for shared parental leave beyond that period.
These are just a few of many global examples that highlight what’s possible when governments and societies champion parental leave. By ensuring parents have the time and financial security to care for their newborns without fear of losing their livelihoods, these countries send a powerful message: not only do families matter, but the infrastructure to support them is crucial as well. When families are given the resources they need to thrive, the benefits ripple outward, strengthening entire communities.
For the U.S., these examples serve as both inspiration and a challenge to do better. If we want to empower parents and provide the support every family deserves, we must advocate for change boldly and compassionately because every parent and every child deserves a strong start.
Maternity and paternity leave in the U.S.
In the U.S., parents often face an uphill battle when it comes to balancing the demands of family and work, especially during the crucial early months of a child’s life. The federal Family and Medical Leave Act allows new parents to take up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave, with the average maternity leave in the USA being 10 weeks. And the average paternity leave in the USA is 17 days.
While sweeping federal changes may seem out of reach in the near future, there’s still action we can take to create meaningful change. Drawing inspiration from countries with effective parental leave policies, we can build a culture that supports parents, starting from the ground up.
At a grassroots level, communities can rally to create networks of support for new parents. Nonprofits, advocacy groups, and even neighbors can organize meal trains, provide childcare co-ops, or fundraise for families struggling without paid leave. Social media and local organizations can amplify the voices of parents, pushing for policies that prioritize caregiving and work-life balance.
Employers have a powerful role to play, too. Even without federal mandates, businesses can implement progressive leave policies, such as offering extended paid leave, flexible scheduling, or the option to work remotely. Family-friendly benefits like on-site childcare, formal lactation policies, properly equipped breastfeeding rooms, and phased returns to work are also steps that make a world of difference. These adaptations aren’t just about compassion — they’re smart business decisions, leading to happier employees and better retention.
Healthcare providers can also help close the gap by ensuring postpartum care is robust and accessible, including providing parents with access to International Board Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLCs), who play an instrumental role in supporting parents on many levels throughout pregnancy and beyond.
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Additionally, schools and other organizations can offer parenting classes or support groups. States can create their own paid leave programs, as seen in California, New York, and other states, bridging the gap where federal policy falls short.
We can transform parental leave in the U.S.
The path forward is smoother with support from Congress, but doesn’t require it; by looking at successful models around the world and tailoring them to fit our unique landscape, we can create a system of care and support that uplifts families.
Change begins with the small, impactful actions happening around us — whether through employers extending paid leave, communities organizing childcare, or states implementing their own policies. These efforts can transform lives and build a network of support for parents. The Lactation Network is a proud advocate for families, providing the support they need and helping them feel valued and empowered, even when larger systems fall short. Connect with an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant to get the breastfeeding, prenatal and postpartum support you deserve today.
We’re here for you, every step of the way. We work with your insurance to provide in-home, in-office, or telehealth visits with an IBCLC.
