2. Abbott

Abbott was awarded as the “Top Company for working moms” in 2007. With shorter commutes, less stress and more quality time, it’s easy to see why employees of this health care company talk wildly about alternative work schedules.

Located in Abbott Park, Ill., the healthcare company, employs 34,062 people, 49 percent of them are women. Among other remarks about the company, Working Mother noted that it offers women an average of two weeks of fully-paid maternity leave.

3. Ernst & Young LLP

In a high-pressure industry, spending any length of time away from work can be nerve-racking, which is why the Career and Family Transitions program, this professional services firm is piloting for employees is so important. Before any women depart on their 22-week maternity leave, they are paired with coaches who advise them on the best ways to satisfy their clients’ and teams’ expectations and establish goals for their return.

The program also brokers discussions with their sponsors, mentors, colleagues and leaders, which increases engagement in these new parents’ success. When their leaves are finally over, women may phase back to work on a reduced schedule for as long as needed.