Behind the Brand: The Truth About Returning to Work After Baby That No One Talks About

The Reality No One Prepares You For

Returning to work after baby is often framed as a milestone moment, a step back into routine, identity and independence. But for many mothers, the reality looks very different. It is not a simple transition back into a previous life. It is stepping into an entirely new one, where the demands of motherhood do not pause when the workday begins. “Going back to work isn’t as simple as employers think,” says Courtney Garland, Board Chair at Haakaa. “Mothers have to organise everything around a small human, all while trying to be productive at work. Being a mother doesn’t just pause while they are at work.” This disconnect between expectation and reality is where many of the challenges begin, and it is a gap that both workplaces and society are still learning how to bridge.

Where Workplaces Are Still Getting It Wrong

Despite growing awareness, many workplaces continue to approach maternity return as a quick reset, expecting mothers to step back into their roles at full capacity almost immediately. The assumption that commitment and productivity should look exactly the same ignores the reality of what women are navigating behind the scenes. “Workplaces are still getting it wrong in a lot of areas, particularly in assuming mothers can return to full capacity straight away,” Courtney explains. “Instead of offering flexibility and support during this season of motherhood, there is often an expectation that everything continues as it was.” The impact of this can be long lasting, shaping how women feel about their careers, their confidence and their place within an organisation.

The Invisible Struggle of Breastfeeding at Work

One of the most overlooked challenges is breastfeeding and expressing in the workplace. It is something many women manage quietly, often without adequate support or facilities. The reality is far from simple. It requires time, space, privacy and the right tools to make it manageable. “Employers need to offer a well lit private room with windows, not just a toilet or cupboard,” says Courtney. “This space should include a fridge for storing expressed milk, so mothers do not feel uncomfortable or ashamed.” Beyond physical space, flexibility is critical. “Allowing time every two to three hours for pumping breaks helps mothers manage physical discomfort and maintain supply, while also giving them space to reset and refocus.” Practical solutions also play a role in reducing stress. Products that are discreet, quiet and easy to use can make a significant difference in how manageable the experience feels. “Having access to tools like a compact pump or something like the Ladybug Milk Collector can help mothers continue their day with one less thing to worry about.”

The Impact of Sleep Deprivation on Performance

Sleep deprivation is one of the most universal parts of early motherhood, yet it is rarely acknowledged in a professional environment. On the surface, a returning mother may appear capable and composed, but internally she may be struggling to maintain focus and energy. “Sleep deprivation affects focus, memory, decision making and emotional regulation,” Courtney explains. “A mother may look fine on the outside but be struggling on the inside.” Understanding this is key for employers, as support during this time can prevent burnout and help retain valuable team members. It is not about lowering expectations, but about recognising that capacity can fluctuate and adjusting support accordingly.

The Motherhood Penalty and Career Progression

Many women returning to work face what is often referred to as the motherhood penalty, a sense that their career has stalled or that they need to prove themselves all over again. This perception can be deeply discouraging and impacts long term career growth. “Maternity leave should not reset a woman’s career,” says Courtney. “Promotions should be based on impact and capability, not whether someone has taken time to have a child.” Creating environments where flexibility is normalised rather than seen as a lack of commitment is essential in shifting this narrative and supporting long term career progression for mothers.

The Physical Reality Behind the Return

Beyond the emotional and logistical challenges, there is also a physical reality that is often overlooked. After giving birth, many women are still recovering from core instability, pelvic floor issues and general physical fatigue. Returning to a structured work environment without acknowledging these factors can add further strain. “Offering flexible hours, frequent breaks and work from home options allows mothers to continue breastfeeding and gives their bodies time to heal,” Courtney explains. These adjustments are not extras, they are essential in supporting a sustainable and healthy transition back to work.

Small Shifts That Make a Big Difference

For mothers feeling overwhelmed, small, practical strategies can help create a sense of control. Organisation plays a key role, from preparing meals in advance to establishing routines before returning to work. “Starting childcare a week or two early can help your little one settle into a routine, making the transition smoother,” Courtney suggests. Planning ahead for expressing milk, having the right storage solutions and choosing products that simplify the process can all reduce daily stress. “Using pumps that are compact, lightweight and quiet can really help mothers feel more in control,” she adds. These small adjustments may seem simple, but they create a foundation that makes the transition more manageable.

What Real Support Actually Looks Like

For workplaces that genuinely want to support returning mothers, the starting point is understanding what real support looks like in practice. “It comes down to three key things,” says Courtney. “Providing a comfortable, private space for breastfeeding, offering flexible hours and work from home options, and implementing a phased return to work strategy.” These elements work together to create an environment where mothers feel supported rather than pressured. “Breastfeeding is often the most overlooked aspect, even though many mothers structure their entire day around it,” she adds. Genuine flexibility means allowing space and time for these needs without stigma or judgement.

What Employers Need to Understand

Behind the scenes, returning mothers are navigating far more than what is visible. “Women are managing sleepless nights, feeding challenges, a significant mental load, hormonal changes and a complete identity shift,” Courtney explains. Recognising this reality is critical in creating supportive workplaces that retain and empower female employees. When women feel seen and understood during this period, it not only improves their experience but also strengthens their connection to their workplace.

A Message for Mums Doing It All

For mothers who feel like they need to prove themselves all over again, Courtney’s message is simple but powerful. “Be kind to yourself. You have just been through one of the hardest seasons of motherhood, and it has made you stronger, more resilient and more capable than ever.” That perspective is often lost in the pressure to return and perform, but it is an important reminder that motherhood does not take away from capability, it adds to it.

Looking Ahead: Changing the Narrative

The conversation around returning to work after motherhood is shifting, but there is still work to be done. Supporting mothers in a meaningful way benefits everyone. “When employers provide more flexibility and breastfeeding support, everyone wins,” Courtney says. “Mothers feel more seen and supported, and companies retain skilled, loyal employees.” It is not just about policy, it is about creating environments where women can thrive in both their careers and their role as mothers.

Parenthood360’s Take

This is a conversation that more parents are having, and one that deserves far more visibility. The transition back to work after having a baby is complex, emotional and often underestimated. Brands like Haakaa, led by voices like Courtney Garland, are helping shift the narrative by advocating for real, practical support that reflects the realities of modern motherhood. It is about removing pressure, creating flexibility and recognising that supporting mothers is not a compromise, it is an investment.

Ready to Feel More Supported in Your Journey

If you are navigating the return to work or looking for ways to make breastfeeding and expressing more manageable, exploring supportive tools and resources can make all the difference.

Explore Haakaa’s range and resources here: https://haakaa.co.nz