If you haven’t already, talk to your company’s human resources department ASAP about planning your maternity leave. Your HR rep will share various family leave policies, including whether the company offers paid family leave or if it qualifies for unpaid leave under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)—not all companies do. You’ll need to provide your employer with at least 30 days’ notice if you plan to take advantage of FMLA, as long as it’s possible to do so. Depending on where you live, you may qualify for your state’s paid or unpaid leave laws.
You’ll also want to schedule a meeting with your boss as soon as possible. You can discuss what you’re working on, who can cover FOR you and an initial plan for easing you back into work when you get back.