Why Paid Maternity Leave Matters: Supporting Families and Small Businesses

As a postpartum doula service in Columbia, MO, Harmony Birth Services understands the critical importance of paid maternity leave for the well-being of mothers, babies, and families. 

The United States is the only developed nation that does not guarantee paid maternity leave, leaving countless new mothers in a precarious position. Shockingly, more than 75% of American mothers working in private industry are forced to take unpaid leave to recover from childbirth and bond with their newborns.

Lack of Maternity Leave Hurts Families and Businesses

The lack of paid maternity leave is not only detrimental to families but also hurts small businesses. When mothers are compelled to return to work mere weeks after giving birth, it can lead to physical and mental health challenges that affect their productivity and job satisfaction. Studies have shown that one in four mothers in the U.S. returns to work after only two weeks, which can negatively impact bonding, breastfeeding, and other factors that contribute to the long-term health of both mother and child.

Moreover, the absence of a national paid maternity leave policy places an undue financial burden on small businesses that choose to offer this essential benefit to their employees. This creates an uneven playing field, making it harder for small businesses to compete with larger corporations that have the resources to provide paid leave.

Paid Maternity Leave is a Fundamental Human Right

The consequences of inadequate maternity leave extend beyond individual families and businesses. A report by the National Partnership for Women & Families found that if women in the U.S. had access to paid maternity leave, it could reduce infant mortality by 13% and save the lives of nearly 600 infants each year. Furthermore, research has shown that paid maternity leave can improve maternal mental health, reduce the likelihood of postpartum depression, and enhance overall family well-being.

We believe that paid maternity leave is a fundamental human right. That’s why we are excited to support Hoot Design Company’s initiative to fund maternity leave through their merch shop. By purchasing items from the Hoot Shop, you can help provide mothers and babies with the time they need to thrive while also supporting small businesses that may struggle to offer paid leave on their own.

One hundred percent of the profits from the Hoot Shop will go towards funding maternity leave across the country, starting in Missouri, where most mothers are breadwinners. 

Create Change for Postpartum Families in Mid-Missouri, and Beyond

This innovative approach demonstrates that we can all play a role in advocating for change and supporting families during this critical time.

As a society, we must recognize the value of paid maternity leave and work together to ensure that all mothers have access to this essential benefit. By supporting initiatives like the Hoot Shop and advocating for policy changes at the national level, we can create a more equitable and compassionate world for families and small businesses alike.

Join Harmony Birth Services in supporting Hoot Design Company’s mission to design a world in which people can become their best selves through work. 

Visit the Hoot Shop today and purchase some fantastic merch knowing that your contribution will make a real difference in the lives of mothers, babies, and families across the United States. Together, we can work towards a future where paid maternity leave is the norm, not the exception.

Need to Apply for Maternity Leave Support? Visit the Hoot Shop.