The reform to the Social Security Law increases the maternity leave period.

This reform was published in the official newspaper, edition No. 74 on February 25, 2025, contained in Law No. 1247, "Reform to the Social Security Law, Decree No. 974." This law modifies Articles 95 and 96 of the Social Security Law, increasing postpartum leave from eight to nine weeks. As a result, total maternity leave now amounts to 13 weeks: four weeks of prenatal leave and nine weeks of postpartum leave.

Article 95 establishes that the maternity benefit is equivalent to 60% of the average weekly remuneration (calculated similarly to the sickness benefit). This benefit—four weeks before and nine weeks after childbirth—is mandatory and must be taken in full.

Article 96 states that the presumed delivery date is determined by doctors who verify the pregnancy. This date is used as the reference point for granting benefits. If the birth occurs after the expected date, prenatal leave is extended until the actual delivery date, without affecting the nine weeks of postpartum leave. If the birth occurs earlier, the remaining prenatal leave is added to the postpartum period.

Thanks to this reform, Nicaraguan mothers will benefit from a longer maternity leave, with appropriate salary compensation and full social security coverage.