Flattening the Baby Bump: An Interdisciplinary Review of Gendered Return-to-Work Decisions After Childbirth

Abstract

Compared to fathers, mothers take significantly more time off work after childbirth to care for infants and are more likely not to return to paid employment. To better understand these gendered outcomes, research on return-to-work after childbirth has grown exponentially. We conduct an interdisciplinary, systematic review of 303 articles to illuminate and compare the factors influencing mothers’ and fathers’ return-to-work decisions and their outcomes. This research reveals a complex web of factors that affect return-to-work and provides comprehensive evidence of the gendered dynamics that parents face. Based on this review, we synthesize existing research and explore alternative theoretical explanations for the persistent gender disparities in return-to-work. In this process, we identify and evaluate four key theoretical lenses, outlining the themes they address, their underlying assumptions, and their potential limitations: 1) the economic and human capital lens, 2) the resource and support lens, 3) the gender role and identity lens, and 4) the health and well-being lens. We conclude by highlighting the remaining gaps in understanding and propose a novel capability-based research agenda to guide future policy, organizational strategies, and support for families navigating return-to-work decisions after childbirth.