Usually, the earliest you can start your leave is 11 weeks before the expected week of childbirth. Leave will also start: the day after the birth if the baby is early. automatically if you're off work for a pregnancy-related illness in the 4 weeks before the week (Sunday to Saturday) that your baby is due.

When should I start my maternity leave?

When should I take my maternity leave? Some women begin taking their leave a week to a month before the expected birth because of discomfort or the desire for time to prepare. Others wait until the last moment so they can maximize their time with the baby once it arrives.

How long is maternity leave and when does it start?

Family leave refers to the time you spend caring for your baby after she arrives. The federal Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) entitles eligible employees to take up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected maternity leave. You can begin the 12 weeks before you give birth, but then you'll have less time afterward.