First-Time Mothers at Work: A Qualitative Phenomenological Study of Lived Experiences of New Mothers

Working mothers around the world struggle to balance Motherhood and professional work, and their experiences differ depending on their cultural context. This phenomenological study investigates the real-life scenarios of 12 new mothers who are employed in a variety of fields, including marketing, banking, Information Technology, and academia. The research highlights five key themes: balancing work and family obligations, the value of support networks, postpartum patriarchal pressures, work-home spillover, and health effects. Study findings indicate that women are motivated to return to work by factors including financial security and career advancement, but these are frequently accompanied by stress, guilt, and insufficient physical and mental recuperation. Mothers struggle to satisfy responsibilities at work and home, which is made worse by the role of societal and familial expectations. Additionally, chronic stress, exhaustion, and health issues are caused by work-home spillovers. This research highlights the urgent need for comprehensive maternity policies, flexible work arrangements, and cultural shifts to better support new mothers. It contributes to the growing discourse on maternal health and work-life balance, providing insights for policymakers, employers, and researchers.