Challenges experienced by academic mothers in the health field after maternity leave

Abstract

Objective: To understand the challenges experienced by mothers who are professors in the health field when returning to work after maternity leave. Methods: Exploratory, descriptive study with a qualitative approach. Eight mothers who are nursing professors at a public university in southern Brazil participated. Data were collected between February and June 2024, using a semi-structured electronic form and analyzed using thematic content analysis, proposed by Bardin. Results: Two thematic categories emerged: overlapping formal work activities and unpaid care activities and their repercussions on teaching careers; and support network and difficulties in caring for children. Motherhood had an impact on the academic and scientific productivity of the participants. They faced overlapping activities, which impacted their scientific production, work overload and fatigue. Although academic mothers have rights guaranteed by law, they describe experiences of persecution, harassment and discrimination when they return to their work activities. The university was not recognized as a component of the support network by the volunteers. Conclusion: It is essential to rethink the work dynamics in academia, to provide a more welcoming, flexible environment that encompasses the perspective of healthy parenting, avoiding the victimization of workers for exercising motherhood.