Motherhood & Promotions: The Unspoken Challenges of Returning to Work

Let’s talk about something that doesn’t get spoken about enough: what really happens when a mother returns to work.

For many new moms, going back to the office isn’t just about picking up where they left off. It’s a whole new world. It’s an emotional, mental and professional recalibration. They’re balancing sleepless nights, childcare, and emotional adjustments, all while trying to prove they’re still just as capable and committed as before.

While maternity leave policies have become more progressive in recent years, what largely remains unaddressed is the silent roadblock women face when they return: the promotion pause!!

Here’s the truth: in many workplaces, even the most high-performing women hit a sort of career pause after becoming moms. Not because they want to, but because of silent assumptions—like, “She probably won’t take that high-pressure role right now.” Such thoughts often float around unspoken.

On the flip side, many moms put themselves under huge pressure to ‘prove a point’. They overwork, over commit, and silently battle guilt—wanting to be great at work and at home, while never really being seen for the extra effort they’re putting in.

The irony? Motherhood often makes women even stronger at work. Motherhood often sharpens a woman’s abilities. Time management has become a natural skill. Empathy deepens. Focus improves because every minute counts. But these strengths go unnoticed if promotions are based on outdated ideas of visibility and “always-on” availability.

No returning mom goes untouched by this phenomenon. In her memoir, My Life in Full, Indra Nooyi discusses the challenges she faced balancing a demanding career with motherhood. She recognized these challenges and advocated for systemic changes to support working mothers.

We need more open conversations about return ships, bias-free assessments, flexible success paths, and redefined leadership readiness. More leaders who ask, not assume. More workplaces that measure output, not just hours spent.

It’s about understanding that ambition doesn’t vanish with a baby—it just wears more hats.

My take on this topic and my contribution—promoting a returning mother isn’t an act of charity. It’s recognizing leadership that’s evolved through resilience, multitasking, and emotional intelligence. I can proudly say, “Been there, done that!”! Yes, I have done this for a returning mother in my team, and I am proud of it!!

Details of the Writer:

Smriti Manchanda
Sr. Vice President & Head of Internal Audit
Niva Bupa Health Insurance