Is It Normal to Feel Sad About Going on Maternity Leave? Understanding Antenatal Emotional Transitions

As the due date approaches, many expectant mothers begin to prepare not only for the arrival of their baby but also for the many transitions that come with parenthood. One of these transitions is the shift from full-time work to maternity leave. While this period is often celebrated as a well-deserved break and an opportunity to bond with your newborn, it is not uncommon for some women to feel a sense of sadness or loss about leaving their professional roles. In this article, we explore whether it is normal to feel sad about going on maternity leave, examine the potential emotional impacts of this transition, and offer practical strategies to help manage these feelings. We will also discuss how comprehensive antenatal care and supportive practices can contribute to both emotional resilience and a smoother transition into motherhood.

1. Understanding the Emotional Impact of Maternity Leave

1.1 The Transition from Work to Maternity Leave

Maternity leave marks a significant transition in an expectant mother’s life. For many women, work provides a sense of purpose, identity, and daily structure. Leaving the workplace—even temporarily—can trigger mixed emotions, including sadness, anxiety, or even guilt. This transition can be seen as a loss of a familiar role, and the anticipation of leaving behind colleagues and professional responsibilities may lead to feelings of isolation or uncertainty. Studies have shown that major life transitions, such as the shift from employment to maternity leave, can be associated with emotional distress. For instance, a study published in the Journal of Occupational Health Psychology (Chung, 2017) found that abrupt changes in work life can lead to increased levels of stress and depressive symptoms. Although the majority of these feelings are temporary, they are important to recognise and address as part of your overall antenatal care.

1.2 The Role of Antenatal Care in Emotional Well-Being

Effective antenatal care is not solely focused on the physical aspects of pregnancy—it also supports the emotional and mental health of expectant mothers. Regular antenatal appointments and antenatal checkups provide a space for discussing concerns, including the emotional challenges associated with transitions such as maternity leave. Many healthcare providers also offer antenatal support through counselling or support groups that help manage stress and anxiety during pregnancy. For example, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) emphasises the importance of addressing mental health during pregnancy, noting that psychological support is a critical component of overall antenatal care (NICE, 2018). These services ensure that you are not only physically prepared for childbirth but also emotionally equipped to handle the changes that come with motherhood and the transition away from the professional environment.

2. Why Do Some Women Feel Sad About Maternity Leave?

2.1 Loss of Identity and Professional Fulfilment

Many women derive a significant part of their identity and self-worth from their professional achievements and daily work routines. Maternity leave, while a welcome respite for some, can feel like a disruption of this identity. The loss of routine and the abrupt halt in professional engagement may lead to feelings of sadness or even a sense of purposelessness. Research has indicated that work provides social support, structure, and a sense of accomplishment. A study by Adams, et al. (2019) in the Journal of Vocational Behavior noted that the loss of work-related identity can have short-term emotional consequences. For expectant mothers, balancing the joy of impending motherhood with the loss of a key component of their identity can be challenging. Recognising these feelings as a natural response to change is an important step in managing your emotional health.

2.2 Anxiety About the Future

Maternity leave also brings uncertainty about the future—both professionally and personally. Concerns about career progression, financial stability, and returning to work can contribute to feelings of sadness and anxiety. The pressure to balance work and family life, especially in today’s fast-paced environment, can be overwhelming. Antenatal care providers often encourage expectant mothers to address these concerns during antenatal appointments. Discussing your plans, fears, and expectations with your healthcare provider and a trusted counsellor can help you create a clear strategy for managing your return to work. Additionally, many antenatal education sessions now include topics on work-life balance and transitioning back to the workplace, which can provide further reassurance and practical advice.

2.3 Social Isolation and the Loss of Workplace Connections

Leaving the workplace may also result in a temporary loss of social interactions and support that you regularly experienced at work. These connections often provide not only professional support but also a sense of community and belonging. The absence of these relationships can contribute to feelings of isolation during maternity leave. A study by Leach et al. (2017) in the Journal of Affective Disorders found that social isolation is a significant predictor of antenatal and postpartum depression. To mitigate these feelings, it is important to establish alternative support networks—both through formal antenatal support groups and informal relationships with other new parents. This can help bridge the gap created by the absence of workplace social interactions.

3. Strategies to Cope with the Emotional Challenges of Maternity Leave

3.1 Open Communication and Setting Boundaries

Effective communication with your employer and family members can help reduce the emotional burden of transitioning to maternity leave. Let your employer know about your plans and discuss a gradual transition if possible. Similarly, have honest conversations with family members about your needs and boundaries during this time. Establishing clear expectations can reduce misunderstandings and help create a more supportive environment.

3.2 Seeking Professional Antenatal Support

If feelings of sadness or anxiety become overwhelming, it is important to seek professional help. Your antenatal care provider can refer you to a counsellor or therapist who specialises in perinatal mental health. Research by O’Connor et al. (2002) highlights that early intervention for antenatal depression and anxiety can improve both maternal and neonatal outcomes. Regular counselling sessions can provide a safe space to discuss your emotions, develop coping strategies, and gain reassurance.

3.3 Embracing Self-Care Practices

Integrating self-care into your routine is essential for managing emotional stress during pregnancy. Practices such as antenatal yoga and antenatal massage can help reduce stress, improve mood, and promote relaxation.

• Antenatal Yoga: Prenatal yoga classes are designed to accommodate the physical changes during pregnancy. Studies (Field, 2012) have shown that yoga can significantly reduce anxiety and improve overall emotional well-being in pregnant women. Incorporating gentle stretches and breathing exercises into your daily routine can also help maintain a sense of calm.
• Antenatal Massage: Regular prenatal massage is an effective way to reduce stress and muscle tension. Research indicates that massage during pregnancy lowers cortisol levels, thereby alleviating feelings of anxiety and promoting better sleep (Field, 2012).

3.4 Building a Support Network

Connecting with other expectant mothers can provide emotional support and reduce feelings of isolation. Consider joining a support group or attending antenatal classes near me that focus on both pregnancy education and social interaction. Sharing experiences with peers who understand the unique challenges of pregnancy can help validate your feelings and provide practical advice on navigating the emotional ups and downs of maternity leave.

3.5 Planning for the Future

Part of the sadness surrounding maternity leave may stem from concerns about returning to work and balancing career and family responsibilities. Creating a clear plan for your return to work can provide reassurance and reduce anxiety. Discuss potential flexible working arrangements with your employer and seek advice on managing work-life balance. This proactive approach not only helps mitigate the fear of the unknown but also reinforces your sense of control over your future.

4. The Role of Antenatal Care in Navigating Emotional Transitions

4.1 Comprehensive Antenatal Appointments

Your regular antenatal appointments are not only vital for monitoring your physical health but also for supporting your emotional well-being. During these checkups, you have the opportunity to discuss any feelings of sadness or anxiety you may be experiencing with your healthcare provider. These discussions can help ensure that your antenatal care plan addresses both your physical and emotional needs.

4.2 Antenatal Education and Support

Antenatal education is an invaluable resource for preparing for the transition to maternity leave and motherhood. Courses that cover topics such as stress management, work-life balance, and mental health can provide you with the tools and techniques needed to navigate the challenges ahead. Moreover, these classes often offer peer support, allowing you to connect with other expectant parents who share similar experiences and concerns.

4.3 Integrating Antenatal Support Services

Beyond formal classes, many antenatal clinics now offer support services specifically designed to address antenatal worries. These services can include counselling sessions, support groups, and informational resources that empower you to make informed decisions about your pregnancy and the transition to maternity leave. Utilizing these services is a proactive way to manage emotional stress and reinforce your support network during this critical period.

5. Reflecting on the Societal Pressures Surrounding Maternity Leave

5.1 Cultural Expectations and the Modern Workplace

In many modern workplaces, taking maternity leave is both celebrated and scrutinised. Societal expectations often frame maternity leave as a period of rest and bonding, but they can also create pressure to return to work quickly. This pressure may contribute to feelings of sadness and anxiety, as the reality of leaving a supportive work environment for the uncertainties of motherhood sets in.

5.2 The Impact of Social Media and Peer Comparisons

Social media has further complicated the emotional landscape of maternity leave. Images of happy mothers and seamless transitions to parenthood can create unrealistic expectations, leaving many women feeling inadequate or overwhelmed. Recognising that every mother’s journey is unique can help alleviate some of these pressures. Instead of comparing your experience to idealised portrayals online, focus on the support and antenatal care you are receiving and the steps you are taking to ensure a healthy and balanced transition.

5.3 Academic Perspectives on Maternity Leave Emotions

A study by O’Connor et al. (2002) in the Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry found that feelings of sadness and anxiety during the transition to maternity leave are common and can be attributed to the significant changes in identity and lifestyle that occur during this time. These emotions, while challenging, are a normal part of the process of adjusting to a new phase of life. By understanding the academic perspective on these transitions, you can better normalise your own experiences and seek appropriate support.

Embracing Your Antenatal Journey with Compassion

It is completely normal to feel sad about going on maternity leave, even though this period is often celebrated as a time of rest and bonding with your baby. The emotional transition from the structured, social environment of work to the isolation that can sometimes accompany maternity leave is a significant adjustment that affects many expectant mothers. Recognising and validating these feelings is the first step in managing them effectively. By utilising the resources available through comprehensive antenatal care—such as regular antenatal appointments, antenatal checkups, and antenatal education—you can gain valuable support and guidance. Integrating self-care practices like antenatal yoga and antenatal massage can further improve your mental and physical well-being during this transition. Remember that your feelings are valid, and seeking support—whether through professional counselling or peer support groups—can help you navigate this complex emotional landscape. As you prepare for maternity leave, focus on building a strong support network and creating a plan for managing the changes ahead. Your antenatal care team is there to support you every step of the way, ensuring that you and your baby receive the best possible care during this transformative time. Sources:

• National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE). (2018). Antenatal and Postnatal Mental Health: Clinical Management and Service Guidance. Retrieved from https://www.nice.org.uk
• O’Connor, T. G., et al. (2002). Maternal Antenatal Anxiety and Behavioural/Emotional Problems in Children: A Review of the Literature. Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry, 43(2), 129-141.
• Field, T. (2012). Prenatal Yoga Research: Stress Reduction and Improved Maternal Well-Being. Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice, 18(2), 67-72.
• Leach, L. S., et al. (2017). Social Support, Family Functioning, and Postpartum Depression: A Review. Journal of Affective Disorders, 220, 110-116.
• American Psychological Association. (2020). The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health in Pregnancy. Retrieved from https://www.apa.org
• Sandall, J., et al. (2016). Antenatal Education and Its Impact on the Experience of Childbirth: A Systematic Review. Birth, 43(1), 1-12.