Should I stay home or go back to work post-maternity leave?

You’ve been mulling this over for a while, and now the time has come to decide whether you should stay at home or go back to work after your maternity leave ends. Whether this is an easy or tough choice for you, the unconditional love and care you have for your child will weigh heavily into your decision as you consider these common factors.

5 points to consider when deciding whether returning to work after maternity leave is right for you:

1. Consider your overall financial picture

Finances will play a huge factor on whether you decide to go back to work from maternity leave. For many people, this factor carries the most weight in their decision.

Can you afford not to work?

Now that you have additional expenses (medical bills, food, day care, life insurance, college planning, etc.), you may have to get calculative in your decision. Speak with a financial advisor who will lead you through a financial planning analysis, help your family create a budget and identify areas to cut out unnecessary expenses.

You’ll also want to consider how much you need to make for it to be worth it for you to go back to work considering all the expenses you’ll make as a working mom. If you went back to work, account for the cost of day care, before and after care for your child, your commute, food, etc. An evaluation and forecast of your expenses, including the costs of child care will help you evaluate whether it’s worth it for you to go back to work.

That said, if you chose to stay at home and forgo a working salary, you’ll still have many of the same items to account for, as well as some child care needs to budget in as well. Assuming that you will be your child’s primary care during the day, the cost will be less; however, you may be more inclined to put money toward activities for you and your children throughout the day.

2. Communicate with your partner

If you have a partner, the two of you should decide what’s best for you as a family. Communicate your feelings, thoughts and concerns related to all these other factors that will weigh into your decisions.

• Will you both be in agreement?
• Will you feel guilty about not contributing to household income if you do choose to not return back to work?
• What will both of your roles and responsibilities be as parents?
• What will be your new responsibilities as a stay-at-home parent?

You and your partner will need to define and discuss this together and come to a place where you both acknowledge, accept your decisions and own your responsibilities.

3. Understand your work environment and benefits

As a new mom, your values and priorities will shift. Consider all things related to your work environment and your career.

• Does your company support working parents?
• Does your company offer flex and remote options ?
• Will there be a private, safe and sanitary place for you to pump?
• Are there other employees who have children in the workforce?
• Does your company care for work-life integration, or are employees known to be burnt out and run to the ground?

You’ll like need to take half days or full days for your child’s medical appointments, snow days and other things you cannot plan for. It’s important to ensure you’re working in a supportive environment and for an employer who will not trigger an ounce of guilt in you. If you’re one of the first employees in your company to have a child, it can take some time for your employer to address your needs. Prepare talking points to help you with these conversations (some of which may be uncomfortable for you) and advocate for your needs.

4. Research childcare options

Another huge factor to consider is all things child care, including the cost and your comfort and confidence of having someone else look after your child. Finding childcare could be a long and drawn out process for your family. Get ahead of this well in advance.

Whether your child will be cared for by a day care facility, a nanny, an au pair , a friend or family member, the good news is that there are a lot of great options to choose from.

Each one has its own list of factors to consider, so you may want to research, get recommendations and referrals, shadow or trial run a few options. Know that no matter what you choose, you’re not alone and finding the best options for your family is totally possible.

5. Check in on your emotional readiness

Many moms will wonder whether they are ready to go back to work. Other moms may have no doubt about it. How will you know if you are ready to go back to work? As your return to work draws near, tune into how you’re feeling.

Are you dreading the day , or are you excited to get back? Many women tie their identity to their career. They like the prestige, power and sense of purpose that comes with it. They crave the connection and productivity they feel working in an office.

Related: How to make going back to work after maternity leave a smooth transition

Other women feel uneasy about returning to work. They couldn’t imagine separating from their child at this time and giving their attention to work. These feelings can stem from your outlook about your work and your role as a mom.

Whatever your perspective, your feelings are valid and will help guide you in your decision, as you take into consideration the factors mentioned above. There’s no right or wrong answer, mama.

It’s no doubt that having a baby changes your life. If you choose to go back to work, you’ll feel like you’re pushed and pulled in so many directions. If you choose to stay at home with your child, you’ll carry a large load, and will probably put a lot of pressure on yourself to do it all.

Consider these factors in deciding what is right for you and your family. Own your decision and step into your role with confidence. There is power in your ability to choose and how you go forward in your decision will make all the difference. For some moms, the decision of returning to work after maternity leave is straightforward, while for others, it’s a complex and emotional journey. If you’re struggling with the idea of going back to work, it’s essential to give yourself the time and space to explore your feelings and weigh your options carefully. Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, and what’s right for one family may not be right for another.

Take the time to reflect on your financial situation, communicate openly with your partner, and consider the support and benefits offered by your employer. Research childcare options thoroughly and trust your instincts when it comes to your emotional readiness to return to work.

Ultimately, the decision is yours to make, and it’s essential to prioritize your well-being and the well-being of your family above all else. Whether you choose to stay at home with your child or return to the workforce, know that there is no right or wrong answer. Trust yourself, embrace your decision with confidence, and know that you are doing what’s best for you and your family.

Returning to Work after Maternity Leave: FAQ

How do I prepare for returning to work after maternity leave?

Preparing to return to work after maternity leave involves several steps. Start by communicating with your employer about your return date and any adjustments to your schedule or workload. Arrange for childcare that meets your needs and preferences, and familiarize yourself with any changes in company policies or procedures during your absence. Additionally, take time to mentally and emotionally prepare for the transition, acknowledging both the challenges and opportunities it may bring.

When should I start planning for my return to work after maternity leave?

It’s never too early to start planning for your return to work after maternity leave. Begin considering your options and making arrangements several weeks before your planned return date. This allows you to address any logistical issues, such as childcare arrangements or scheduling adjustments, and ensures a smoother transition back to the workplace.

How can I make the transition back to work after maternity leave smoother?

To make the transition back to work smoother, consider gradually easing back into your work routine. This might involve starting with shorter workdays or a reduced workload initially and gradually increasing your hours as you adjust. Communicate openly with your employer about your needs and any concerns you may have, and prioritize self-care to manage the demands of both work and motherhood effectively.

What rights do I have when returning to work after maternity leave?

When returning to work after maternity leave, it’s essential to understand your rights under the law and any company policies that apply to you. In many countries, including the United States, maternity leave is protected by law, and employers are required to provide certain accommodations and benefits to returning mothers. Familiarize yourself with these rights and advocate for yourself if you encounter any challenges or discrimination upon your return to work.

How can I balance work and motherhood after returning from maternity leave?

Balancing work and motherhood can be challenging, but with careful planning and prioritization, it is possible to find a balance that works for you. Consider establishing clear boundaries between work and home life, delegating tasks where possible, and seeking support from family, friends, or coworkers. Remember to prioritize self-care and be flexible in adjusting your routine as needed to meet the demands of both roles.

What if I’m struggling emotionally with returning to work after maternity leave?

If you’re struggling emotionally with returning to work after maternity leave, know that you’re not alone, and it’s okay to seek support. Consider reaching out to a trusted friend, family member, or mental health professional for guidance and encouragement. Additionally, explore resources available through your employer, such as employee assistance programs or support groups, that can provide additional support during this transition. Remember to be patient and kind to yourself as you navigate this challenging time.

A version of this post was published September 25, 2019. It has been updated.