New Study Finds Maternity Leave Improves Health Outcomes
Scientists in Norway studied new mothers in the late 1970s and discovered that paid maternity leave has long-term health benefits.
Unlike previous research that looked at the short-term benefits of maternity leave, the new study published by University of Georgia economist Meghan Skira looked at the long-term benefits.
Skira looked at the health outcomes of thousands of Norwegian women before paid maternity leave reforms were introduced in 1977. “This sharp change in who was eligible for paid maternity leave provides a nice natural experiment,” Skira explained.
She discovered that the long-term health benefits of maternity leave improved health outcomes for women over the age of 40.
Women who gave birth after July 1977 had 2.5% to 3.7% lower body mass index (BMI). When compared to those that didn’t have access to paid maternity leave.
Skira found that women who stayed home after giving birth were healthier as they entered middle age.
The study was made possible thanks to Norway collecting health data at age 40 to measure the overall health of the population.
Skira hopes that her research will clarify the debate surrounding family leave policies. Future studies following the health of women into old age are planned to find out more about the longer-term benefits of maternity leave.
