Returning to work after having a child can bring both excitement and new challenges. Along with adjusting to new routines at home and work, many employees hope to return to the same opportunities and responsibilities they had before taking maternity leave.
In many workplaces, employers might make assumptions about a new mother’s commitment, availability and long-term career goals. Although not every workplace change is discriminatory, some changes might raise concerns about whether an employee is being treated differently after returning from maternity leave.
Signs that might be worrisome
After returning to the workplace, new mothers will likely want to step into the same role they had before leaving. However, women might notice changes in their responsibilities and career path, such as:
- Being overlooked for promotions or big opportunities
- Losing access to important projects or clients
- Being excluded from important meetings and events
- Having fewer responsibilities or less authority than before
- Facing criticism and negative performance evaluations
A single event does not mean workplace discrimination happened. However, if several of these changes happen soon after returning to work, it can be helpful to keep a detailed record of workplace developments and behavior.
Employees have workplace protection
Federal and Idaho laws prohibit discrimination based on pregnancy, childbirth and related medical conditions. These rules and regulations generally provide additional protections for eligible employees returning from leave. Employment decisions should be based on legitimate business reasons.
Paying attention to workplace changes
Not every workplace challenge after maternity leave is a result of discrimination. However, if there is a major change in responsibilities, opportunities and treatment, it may need closer attention.
Keeping records and evidence of any workplace events, communications and work decisions can help create a clearer picture of what is happening. Knowing workplace rights and concerns early can help employees make an informed decision.
