I had my first baby six months ago, and coming back to work felt less like a return and more like a cannon launch. No phase-in, no check-ins—just "welcome back, can you lead the Q2 all-hands next week?" I’m exhausted, juggling feeding schedules and board decks, and wondering if this is just how it is for women at my level. Was I naïve to expect support? Or is this the unspoken tax we pay as female execs who choose to have kids?

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My company actually does a good job at this. The first month back, mothers are part-time (fully paid) to help reintegrate and then you work directly with your manager and team to get back up to speed. You’re doing great! Do what you can and remember family is more important than work!

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Yep, at Intel

Sadly, this is far too common. Companies often have formal leave policies but no actual support for reintegration—especially at the exec level where expectations don’t flex. It might be worth pushing for structural changes now that you’ve seen the gap firsthand.

Well I have seen women felt left out of not immediately given their responsibilities back. While I have seen others wishing to have more flexibility and being able to let others step in and lead while they adjust. In the US unfortunately there are no real standards so it comes down to the function you have, the leadership you have and wether the culture offers some flexibility and ultimately whether there is room for you to negotiate or ask for the flexibility you need. In my opinion unless you have a sponsor willing to “save your seat the table” while you take the much needed time, it’s really hard. Also there is a double standard women are expected to do it all. I wish you good luck and if you can afford it, take the time you need.

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