Employee Rights After Maternity Leave
On episode 68 of the Learning to Mom Podcast, I sat down with Traci Chernoff, host of the podcast, Bringing the Human back to Human Resources. During our chat, we talked about negotiating maternity leave and returning to work after becoming a mom.
Eager to hear more?
Don’t forget to listen to episode 68 of the Learning to Mom Podcast, “Tips for Returning to Work After Maternity Leave with Expert HRTraci | Ep. 68!”
Going Back to Work after Maternity Leave
One of the biggest things about negotiating your schedule during maternity leave is knowing your rights.
Remember to be realistic and kind to yourself when figuring out your work schedule. Your professional life will change when you have a newborn, so you’ll need time to figure it out.
The Pump Act
One of the most important laws protecting mothers in the workplace is the Pump Act.
This law:
Requires employers to provide employees reasonable time to express breastmilk/pump.
This law includes protection from adverse action by an employer.
Provides mothers with a space to pump in the workplace.
The space provided must be shielded from view and free from outside intrusion.
Important note: This act entitles mothers a place to pump other than a bathroom.
Do you get paid while on pump breaks?
When you return to work after maternity leave, there are important pay changes you should be aware of:
Hourly pay- No pay during pumping breaks.
Salary pay- You’ll get paid during pumping breaks.
Maternity Leave and Remote Work
The things that you’re going to struggle with when returning to work varies based on your work environment.
The challenges of remote work may not be the same challenges you’ll face in the workplace.
For example:
On-site- You’ll have to find a private room/space to pump.
Remote scheduling- You’ll have to balance your meeting times w/ times for pumping breastmilk.
You’ll need to find a balance between pumping & work
Maternity Leave Work Plan
When working through your schedule with your employer, be:
Intentional
Honest
Open about your commitment
Communicating clearly with your employer (whether through email or in-person) will demonstrate your professionalism and drive.
Struggling with Return to Work after Maternity Leave
If you’re struggling to adjust to working again after maternity leave, some strategies can help:
Be realistic about goals & timelines for projects- Set goals with an established, attainable timeline to help you build your routine.
Think about what you want when returning to work- Consider your work environment.
Does it feel better to stay home or work on-site? Which option is feasible?
Establish “me-time”- Returning to work can feel busy, like everything’s happening in a rush. Take time for yourself to help with the transition.
These strategies can help you stay organized & feel less anxious about going back to work.
Being a Workplace Warrior
The transition back to work may seem daunting, but there are several ways that you can be prepared for the challenge!
Curious how you can be productive and informed when going back to work?
Tune in to episode 68 of the Learning to Mom Podcast, “Tips for Returning to Work After Maternity Leave with Expert HRTraci | Ep. 68” to find out how!
