Returning to Work After Maternity Leave in India : A Guide for New Moms

Returning to work after maternity leave is a huge milestone for any mother. It’s the idea of restarting life after a long break that gives you butterflies in your stomach. Many thoughts may rush through your mind, but stepping into this new phase of life is pure bliss—you feel the excitement, the joy, the nerves, and endless possibilities all at once.

In India, with up to 26 weeks of paid leave under the Maternity Benefit Act, many moms step back into their careers feeling ready and strong. Yes, there can be bumps like quiet biases, childcare worries in busy cities, or that pull between home and office. But this guide, based on real stories and trusted reports, is here to show you it's possible to make the transition smoother and more stress free. Balancing motherhood and work is already an amazing thing, so your path forward is bright.

With data showing up to 75% of moms facing 1–2 year career setbacks post-leave, this guide will help you understand simple steps that can help you move forward with confidence.

Who This Is For

• For new or expecting moms living in India wanting to get back to their jobs after maternity leave ends.

• For mothers who’re unsure about their career trajectory post maternity-leave.

• For dual income setup families that means both you and your partner are working.

• For mothers who’re managing nuclear family dynamics, all on their own.

• For mothers who’re dealing with long commutes while also building a career in IT, corporate or services.

Maternity Leave Rules in India

Your rights are clear: 26 weeks of paid leave, protection on the job, and no unfair treatment for taking that time (As per India's Maternity Benefit Act, 1961 - Ammended 2017). 

Many moms step away due to inflexible hours but planning ahead helps a lot in the long run. This isn't official advice, talk to your HR or a trusted expert when needed as policies may vary according to the organisation. 

Embracing the Return: A Mix of Feelings and First Steps

1. The Emotional Rollercoaster

The day you walk back into work brings a rush of emotions—happiness at seeing your team, worry about catching up, and maybe a small ache from leaving your baby. In India, some companies might see returning moms as less focused on their careers, leading to slower progress for 75% of moms, (Ref. Aon 2024 Voice of Women study, still the benchmark in 2025 discussions). But this doesn't have to be the story for everyone.

2. Professional adjustments after leave

Emotionally, you may keep going back to the time you spent enjoying cuddles and sweet little moments with your baby. Professionally, things may have changed while you were away. Often, someone else has taken on parts of your role. Most companies don't make a brand-new job for you; instead, it's usually better to return to your original one with some gentle adjustments.

3. Easing in with Phased Onboarding

Phased onboarding enables you to start with lighter tasks and flexible hours for about eight weeks. It’s a good way to ease in smoothly is by not skipping a clear catch-up plan—whether it's you feeling you should jump right in or the company assuming everything will be fine. Those first 3–6 months really matter for building back your rhythm and confidence.

4. Why the First Few Months Matter Most

Before you officially restart work at the office, it’s always better to get in touch with the team in advance, regular short briefs or updates about any current project developments and other job related tasks can help you ease in more comfortably. Stay lightly connected during leave because it will help you ease back in slowly. Feel ready and strong, not rushed. 

Growing Your Career: Handling Progress and Fairness

1. Protecting Your Growth & Increments

Your career doesn't have to stop or pause after maternity. Many moms do face slower growth or smaller roles—75% report setbacks, and around 40% note a pay impact as per the report published by Aon's 2024 Voice of Women Study, India, but laws protect you. The Maternity Benefit Act says your leave counts as time in service, so increments and promotions should continue fairly, with no automatic penalty.

2. Exploring Sabbaticals Wisely

If you want more time for recovery or family, a sabbatical (a longer break, often 3–12 months) can be worth thinking about, especially if your company allows it. Some companies offer partial pay after a few years. Talk to HR early to see what fits your goals.

3. Navigating Subtle Biases

Biases can show up quietly, people focusing more on how much time you're "seen" at work than what you actually achieve, or suggesting roles with less travel can make you wonder if you’re doing something wrong, but remember that it’s passing chatter. 

4. Speaking Up for Fair Treatment

If something feels off, bring it up calmly with HR. Companies can help a lot by offering clear growth paths prioritising data-driven DE&I, flexible hours, and more women in leadership roles. 

Finding Balance: Dealing with Guilt and Setting Limits

1. Understanding how Indian Moms navigate Work Life

Having a career can’t stop mothers from taking care of their children. For those of us who have a working mom, we’ve seen the prime example at our home only. Saying mothers are all rounders is an understatement.

However let’s not forget that societal pressures, expectations, and cultural norms still frame motherhood as the ultimate priority in most Indian households.

While 75% reported challenges,  it's often perception mixed with reality. Legally, Section 12 of the Act protects you—maternity is deemed "in service" for eligibility in increments, promotions, and appraisals. Some have experienced that the tug between home and office gets stronger. It's normal, and it doesn't make you less of a mom or professional.

2. Simple Routines for a Smoother Transition

During leave, simple daily routines with your baby like regular feeding or playtime can help both of you adjust when you return. Work-life balance isn't perfect every day, but it comes in phases, and that's okay. 

3. Making Work-Life Balance Work in Phases

Flexible options like working from home sometimes, shorter days, or staggered hours make a real difference—67% of moms say they prioritize these, and when set up well (with clear expectations), they reduce stress and help you be present at home and work.

4. Setting Boundaries That Feel Right

Setting boundaries can feel hard as a new mom, but start small: choose your most important tasks, say no when you need to, and share what you need with your team. This phase teaches you strength, and over time, the guilt softens into pride for building a life that works for you.

Support That Makes a Difference: From Workplaces and Loved Ones

1. How Companies Can Welcome You Back

Workplaces can make returning feel welcoming. Things like creches (required for companies with 50+ employees, with four daily visits until your child is 15 months), friendly check-ins during leave, or small thoughtful gestures help moms feel supported and valued.

Organizations in India are stepping up with thoughtful support to help returning moms settle in comfortably, blending legal requirements with practical perks. These steps boost confidence, ease daily life, and improve retention—especially in high-attrition scenarios. Here's a quick look at key ways companies can make the transition warmer and more manageable.

2. Support During Leave & Beyond

A good support system of friends at work, leaders who check in, and peer groups helps you rebuild your place without wearing yourself out. Partners stepping in to share baby duties makes a huge difference in how confident and balanced you feel.

3. Planning Childcare & Family Balance

Plan childcare ahead: creches, a trusted nanny or family help so nothing falls through the cracks. Rebuilding your presence? Take on interesting projects, stay connected with your team, and lean on others for encouragement.

4. Real Stories of Strong Comebacks

Real comebacks warm the heart: Programs like Thoughtworks' Vapasi have helped many women come back strong through training and support.

Organizations in India are stepping up with thoughtful support to help returning moms settle in comfortably, blending legal requirements with practical perks. These steps boost confidence, ease daily life, and improve retention—especially in high-attrition scenarios. Here's a concise look at key ways companies can make the transition warmer and more manageable 

5. Legal Mandates as Foundation

Maternity Benefit (Amendment) Act, 2017 (1961, amended 2017) remains the core—still requiring crèche facilities for establishments with 50 or more employees, allowing moms four daily visits including rest intervals until the child is 15 months old. Nursing breaks are also mandatory for breastfeeding support.

Post-maternity work-from-home is permitted by mutual agreement, offering flexibility. Recent 2025 Supreme Court rulings (e.g., K. Umadevi case) reinforced protections, extending benefits to contractual staff without time limits, but no change to the crèche threshold (still 50+, not reduced to 25+ as some unofficial sources claim).

6. Onsite Comfort Amenities

Comfort-focused additions make a big difference:

• Dedicated nursing/pumping rooms and mother's rest lounges.

• Childcare subsidies or daycare tie-ups (some startups like Capital Float plan onsite crèches as they grow). These create a welcoming space, especially for breastfeeding moms in metros.

Supportive Gestures & Culture

Small, meaningful touches build belonging:

• Optional check-ins during leave to stay connected.

• Personal welcome-back gestures or felicitations.

• Policies like traveling with child and caretaker (Titan allows this for children up to 3 years). Employee resource groups, gender sensitization training, and grievance cells help address biases and foster inclusion.

Real Life Examples

• Amazon India: Smooth transitions with Ramp Back (eight weeks of flexible hours) and resources like discounted daycare.

• Capgemini & EY: Nursing rooms, wellness sessions, and programs like 'MomEY' for coaching and confidence-building.

• Startups (e.g., Capital Float, Nestaway): Flex hours, phased returns, and plans for crèche support.

These initiatives show how companies can turn returns into positive experiences—making moms feel valued and supported from day one.

Quick Thoughts for Busy Days

• Career slows after maternity: It can feel that way at first, but many moms come back even stronger! If you look at your career path from a long-term perspective, six months are nothing and would hardly define your professional trajectory in the long run, so do not stress about missing out on anything.

• Biggest mistake: Not setting boundaries early leads to exhaustion. Instead, moms who start small. Prioritising key tasks will help you organise your time more thoughtfully– leaving you feeling more energized and balanced.

• Wait for promotion: No set time— focus on doing good work after settling in. Many women shine post-return; for example, through programs like Thoughtworks' Vapasi, experienced moms reboot their tech careers with training and mentoring, landing exciting new roles and advancing faster than expected.

• Asking for flexibility: Not a risk if your company has policies, it often shows loyalty. Companies like Amazon's Ramp Back program give moms eight weeks of gradual return with flexible hours, and participants report feeling more engaged and committed, leading to stronger performance and team trust.

• One thing to remember: Know your rights under the Maternity Benefit Act—they're there to support you. Moms who understand these (like 26 weeks paid leave and job protection) feel more confident negotiating what they need, turning the return into a positive fresh start.

• For managers: Empathy and regular, kind check-ins go a long way. Leaders who stay connected help moms feel valued, boosting confidence and helping them thrive back at work.

FAQ

Q. Does maternity leave affect pay raises or promotions?

No, maternity leave does not affect pay raises or promotions. It counts as normal time at work, and many companies handle it fairly.

Q. What are the creche rules?

Yes, companies with 50 or more employees must provide creche facilities. Moms can make up to four visits a day until the child is 15 months old. However, confirm these rules with your HR- as policies may vary depending upon the organisation.

Q. Are flexible hours becoming more common?

Yes, flexible hours are becoming more common, especially in larger companies. Many moms find that these options make a real difference in their daily lives.

Q. Is it normal to feel guilty after returning to work?

Yes, guilt is very common among working moms in India. Support from family, friends, and the workplace makes it much easier to manage.

Q. What happens if I have more than two children?

If you have more than two children, you receive 12 weeks of paid maternity leave instead of 26. All other job protections and benefits remain the same.

Q. Can I work from home after maternity leave?

Yes, you can work from home after maternity leave by mutual agreement with your employer. Many companies offer this option to help with a smoother transition.

Q. What support is available for nursing or breastfeeding at work?

You are entitled to nursing breaks and a private space (not a bathroom) for breastfeeding. Many offices provide dedicated nursing rooms or pumping facilities.

Q. Do I need to inform my employer about my return date?

Yes, it is a good idea to inform your employer about your planned return date in advance. This helps them prepare phased onboarding and any flexibility you may need.

Q. What should I do if I feel overwhelmed in the first few days back?

Feeling overwhelmed in the first few days is completely normal. Start with a gentle schedule, talk openly with your manager, and give yourself grace, most moms settle into their rhythm within a few weeks.

Q. How can I manage childcare without family help?

Plan ahead by using creches, trusted nannies, or daycare subsidies. Many moms find supportive arrangements that allow them to focus on both work and their baby.

Q. Is there protection from unfair treatment after returning to work?

Yes, the law protects you from dismissal, demotion, or unfair treatment due to maternity. If you face any concerns, raise them calmly with HR for quick and fair resolution.

A Positive Step Forward

Taking one step at a time will help you start your job with renewed energy, positive outlook and a healthy state of mind. Don’t try to rush through things – take your time settling down and learning about the changes the company or projects have gone through during your absence. You don’t have to handle everything since day one.  

India's maternity rights provide a strong base—26 weeks of paid leave, job security, and growing workplace support. Every mom's return brings a mix of challenges and small victories, and that's okay. With a gentle plan, honest conversations, and steady encouragement from loved ones and colleagues, you can ease back in feeling capable and hopeful.

You're not just returning to work—you're creating a meaningful balance between your career and family. Celebrate the little wins, trust your strength, and know that you're building something beautiful.