Is FMLA leave considered paid leave?

No, the FMLA simply assures the time off. However, if employees have paid leave, the appropriate paid leaves are used during the time off. For example, a staff employee would be charged accrued sick leave and then annual leave for his or her serious health condition, and accrued annual leave for the care of a family member. Sick leave (for prenatal care or for the recovery from child bearing), parental leave, and annual leave would be used for the birth of a child; and parental leave and annual leave for adoption or placement of a foster child. If the employee has no paid leave or insufficient paid leave, the time off is considered leave without pay.