Kris-
The US has a HORRID system in place for maternity leave. Your 100% right. Its so sad so many women are forced back to work so quickly. In fact, its the primary reason BFing is so short lived here. Many women give up after going to work. Sadly, I dont think this is going to change any time soon.
Some European Countries have AMAZING maternity benefits. I think it was Germany (I might be wrong) that gives something like 5 years???? IF all my family and friends wernt here, Im pretty sure Id think about exploring other countries. The US isnt real wonderful in my eyes. Corse, not to debate politics, but then again, Im not GW's biggest fan either
All mothers deserve more time than we get here. I lost my job when prego with my 1st born due to HG. THe last time, I quit in my 1st trimester at like 11 weeks when I knew I wasnt going to be able to go back. Im lucky, as we get by with just DH's income, but, we certainly could use more income at some point. Im hoping to hold out till Katie turns one, then go back per diem (as needed, on call basis) to my old job.