10 Important Questions to ask your HR regarding Maternity Policy.

Fact: In India, as per the Maternity Benefit (Amendment) Act, 2017, women are eligible for up to 26 weeks of maternity leave for their first two children.

Knowing the duration of your maternity leave is crucial for planning and making necessary arrangements. It allows you to understand how much time you can take off to focus on your well-being and bonding with your baby. It's essential to clarify whether the leave is paid or unpaid. Having a clear understanding of your leave duration ensures you can confidently plan your maternity journey.

Fact: In India, maternity policies can vary across organizations. It is important to inquire about your company's specific maternity policy.

Understanding your company's maternity policy is crucial for planning your pregnancy. Here are four key things to discuss. Firstly consider asking whether you qualify for maternity leave in your company based on the time period you have served in the company. Secondly, ask about the number of days of paid and unpaid leaves you can take. Thirdly check for how many such leaves you can combine to get the maximum benefit. Lastly, enquire about what kind of support is available when you return to work to ensure a smooth come back to the workplace.

Fact: According to the Maternity Benefit (Amendment) Act, 2017, employers must give women returning from maternity leave their same job or a similar one with the same pay and benefits.

It's important to ask what will happen to your job post when you return from maternity leave. You want to know if you will go back to the same job position you had before or if you will have to start from a junior level. Ask if there will be a with the same pay and benefits. This is to make sure you have job security and that your career won't be affected negatively when you come back to work. Step back into the workplace with confidence and style!

Fact: In India, the Maternity Benefit (Amendment) Act, 2017 mandates employers to provide a safe and hygienic space for breastfeeding or expressing milk, along with reasonable breaks for nursing mothers.

Asking about a specific space or room for breastfeeding is crucial to be able to provide the best care for your child even while you are at work. Knowing it ensures that you can comfortably breastfeed at the office and maintain a healthy work-life balance.

Fact: Some companies provide wellness programs tailored to the needs of expecting employees.

Asking about such policies in your office is crucial for your successful return to work place. It's essential to inquire about specific programs such as prenatal fitness classes, access to lactation consultants, or educational resources on maintaining a healthy pregnancy to ensure a smooth transition after childbirth. Understanding the available support systems can help you navigate the challenges of postpartum recovery.

Fact: The available maternity leave may not be sufficient.

Knowing if extending leave is an option is crucial as it can provide you with additional flexibility if you require more time away from work beyond your fixed maternity leave period. Understanding the process for requesting and arranging unpaid leave allows you to plan accordingly in case you feel the need for more time at home with the baby. 

Fact: The financial situation may not permit unpaid leave extension.

Inquiring about flexible work arrangements or WFH options is crucial as it will help you in balancing your work and personal responsibilities effectively. Flexible work arrangements, such as part-time schedules, can help you maintain a better work-life balance while caring for your newborn. It allows you to explore possibilities for gradually returning to work or adjusting your work hours to accommodate your new parental duties.

Fact: Inquire about the coverage for prenatal visits, childbirth, and postpartum care under the company's medical insurance plan. Understanding the extent of coverage can help you plan for potential expenses.

Inquiring about the coverage for prenatal visits, childbirth, and postpartum care under your company's medical insurance plan is crucial. Understanding the extent of coverage can help you plan for potential expenses and ensure that you have access to necessary healthcare services during your pregnancy. Ask about the specific benefits and coverage details related to maternity-related medical expenses. By clarifying this information, you can make informed decisions about your healthcare needs and ensure financial preparedness.

Lastly the most crucial and basic question. Inquire about the process and procedures for applying for maternity leave. They will guide you through the necessary steps and provide you with the required forms or documentation. Typically, you will be asked to submit a formal leave application along with relevant medical documents, such as a doctor's certificate confirming your pregnancy and expected due date. By understanding the application procedure and the required documents in advance, you can ensure a hassle-free application process and timely approval of your maternity leave.