Appropriate maternity leave significantly contributes to a mother’s mental health, as highlighted by the Ministry of Health. This leave is crucial in maintaining a mother’s well-being before and after childbirth.
Studies indicate that maternity leave serves as a protective measure against postpartum psychological issues, including depression and general mental health problems. It also reduces the need for mental health care services.
Huda bint Humaid al Jardaniyah, Director of the Maternity Leave Benefits Allowance Project at the Social Protection Fund, stated that maternity leave insurance covers the mother from pregnancy to post-birth. This insurance is pivotal in providing social protection for families, reinforcing principles of partnership and justice.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) emphasises that neglecting women's mental health during the perinatal period can threaten their overall well-being and impact the physical and emotional development of their children.
Before childbirth, maternity leave helps mothers adapt to the physical and emotional changes of pregnancy, fostering comfort and happiness. It provides them with sufficient time to prepare for childbirth, create a conducive home environment for the newborn and reduce the risk of psychological disorders such as depression and anxiety.
Post-childbirth maternity leave aids in the mother’s physical and psychological recovery, allowing her to focus on caring for her child without the stress of returning to work. This enhances the emotional bond between mother and child.
Dr Jean Jabour, the WHO representative in Oman, stressed the importance of the mother’s presence during the first months of a child’s life, as this period is critical for the child’s emotional and social development.
Securing maternity leave for working mothers is a wise investment in their health and that of their children. Maternity leave allows for adequate rest and care for the newborn, promoting higher rates of breastfeeding initiation and continuation. Breastfeeding is vital for the first six months, and maternity leave supports mothers in this choice, ensuring they have the necessary time and comfort.
Moreover, maternity leave provides mothers with the opportunity to organise their personal and professional lives after childbirth and enhance their ability to balance work and family responsibilities.
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