Going on maternity leave is supposed to be a time of rest, recovery, and bonding with your baby — not a time to fear losing your job. Unfortunately, for many women, the reality is far from supportive. I know this firsthand because I was laid off while on maternity leave not once, but twice.
The first time, I told myself it was just bad timing. My company had been downsizing, and I convinced myself it wasn’t personal. Still, I remember the shock of reading that email while holding my newborn, the tears that came as I wondered how I’d provide for my family during such a vulnerable season.
When it happened again during my second maternity leave, the pain cut deeper. This wasn’t just about a paycheck — it was about the message it sent: that my contributions, my dedication, and my worth to the company could be erased the moment I prioritized my family and health. It felt like a punishment for becoming a mother.
The truth is, my story isn’t unique. Countless new moms face similar experiences, highlighting the urgent need for stronger workplace protections and cultural shifts around caregiving. Parental leave should never be seen as an inconvenience or a liability. It’s a vital period that benefits families, workplaces, and society as a whole.
What helped me was finding support networks of other moms who had been through the same thing. I leaned on family, friends, and legal advice to navigate next steps. Most importantly, I stopped internalizing the shame. Being laid off during maternity leave wasn’t a reflection of my value — it was a reflection of a broken system.
If you’re going through this now, please know you’re not alone. Protect yourself by knowing your rights, documenting everything, and seeking professional guidance if needed. And remember: your career can recover, but nothing replaces the early moments you share with your baby.
I share my story not just to heal, but to push for change. Because no parent should ever have to choose between being there for their child and keeping their livelihood secure.
#MaternityLeave #WorkingMoms #WorkplaceEquity #ParentalRights #MotherhoodJourney