The medical and social science basis for a national infant care leave policy.

In a review of work in psychology, psychiatry, neonatology, and sociology, the birth or adoption of an infant emerges as a sensitive period in which parents need time for role adaptation. Evidence points to the need for job-protected leave without financial loss so that parents can meet the material and emotional needs of their family in general, and the developmental needs of their new infant in particular, during the early postpartum period.