You've been to the doctor and he confirmed what you already suspected: In less than 9 months, a new life will depend on you to love, nurture and provide for him or her. Before you decide on the style of baby furniture, however, you probably will need to decide how and when to tell your boss you'll need some time off work.

Attorney David Simpson, of Wolflick & Simpson in Glendale Calif., says the law is on the side of expectant moms. "U.S. protections are extensive for pregnant working women and they should take maximum advantage of them, like knowing that their husbands are eligible for certain childcare leave, too, including a guarantee of reinstatement."

In the United States, if you work for a company with at least 50 employees, you are protected by the Family Medical and Leave Act. The Pregnancy Discrimination Act protects female employees who work for companies with at least 15 employees. Under the FMLA, a new parent is guaranteed 12 weeks leave if after working 12 months or 1,250 hours (the 12 months do not have to be consecutive). The PDA states that an employer must treat pregnant women the same as other employees with nonpregnancy-related disabilities.

Many larger companies may offer a percentage of earned wages during the leave and continue health, life and other benefits. You are also guaranteed the same or similar job of comparable pay and responsibilities when you return from leave. Federal law protects you and state laws mirror their federal counterparts. Some states, such as Texas, offer no additional protections for pregnant working women, while California's and Washington's protections expand upon those of the federal government.

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