The journey of bringing a new life into the world is transformative for all involved, but particularly for the birthing parent.
While much attention is rightfully given to infant care and maternal health (although arguably there still needs to be more), the role of partners in creating successful maternity leave is important.
More often than not, the non-birthing partner's experience often remains understudied and under-appreciated.
In this post, we'll explore how partners significantly impact maternity leave success, why their involvement matters deeply, and why companies need to support parental leave for all new parents.
Historically, childrearing responsibilities have fallen disproportionately on mothers. In more antiquated models the non-birthing parents are often expected to return to work shortly after birth.
To get started in creating a more equitable track, here are questions for a dual career couple to ask and answer!
Surveys from Pew Research Center found that Seven in 10 fathers reported taking two weeks or less after the birth of their child. Other research indicated that, while many fathers or non-birthing parents receive paid parental leave, they are less likely to take advantage of the entirety of it.
Modern research challenges this approach, demonstrating that shared parental leave creates stronger foundations for families.
When both parents take leave—whether simultaneously or sequentially—they establish patterns of shared responsibility. This short period of time sets the stage for responsibilities going forward. This is important for a myriad of family-oriented reasons, but it's also important for mothers looking to keep their careers on track.
A shared approach to parental leave is a first step, but it's one that helps dismantle outdated gender roles. As a result, we create more equitable parenting partnerships and more equitable relationships in the workplace.
Countries with robust parental leave policies for all parents show interesting economic patterns:
These examples highlight a critical point for employers: When both parents take leave, mothers are more likely to return to work full-time, maintain career momentum, and experience less "motherhood penalty" in wages and advancement.
The physical recovery from childbirth requires significant time and support. This physical recovery doesn't even take into account the demanding needs of a newborn, which has its own affects on the body when it comes to feeding.
A partner's presence during this recovery period provides essential practical assistance:
Research shows that birthing mothers with actively involved partners report faster physical recovery and lower rates of postpartum complications. Again, from a company perspective, this reduces healthcare costs and reduces the number of mothers that need to extend their leaves.
Perhaps the most profound impact partners have involves mental health protection during the vulnerable postpartum period:
Studies consistently show that robust partner support significantly reduces the risk and severity of postpartum depression. Partners provide:
The presence of an engaged partner creates psychological safety during a period of intense vulnerability and transition.
Some families find sequential leave arrangements particularly beneficial:
This approach extends the total period of parental care, eases transitions back to work, and allows each parent dedicated bonding time while maintaining family income.
Support comes in many different forms.
While one new parent might find that emotional support is the most helpful, others might find that logistical assistance provides the most impact.
Partners play a crucial role in advocating for better parental leave policies:
When partners visibly prioritize family leave, they help create cultural change that benefits all families.
Maternity leave should never be viewed as solely the mother's domain or responsibility. The evidence clearly shows that partner involvement transforms the experience for everyone involved.
The most successful maternity leaves occur when viewed as a family transition rather than a maternal one alone.
When partners fully engage—taking leave, providing support, and sharing responsibilities—they create foundations for healthier families, stronger relationships, and more successful parenting journeys.
By recognizing and embracing the critical role partners play, we can reimagine maternity leave as an opportunity to establish patterns of partnership that will sustain families through the challenges and joys of raising children together.