Back to Work After Baby: How to Be the Ultimate Work Bestie

Your work wife just had a baby and is back at work—yay! Returning to work after maternity leave is a huge transition, whether it’s her first or fourth child. Whether she’s back in the office or logging on remotely, she’ll need support to navigate this next chapter. As Kate Tovsen of The Society of Working Moms shares, here are 8 ways you can show up for her.

‍

1. Organize a “Welcome Back to Work” Party! 🎉

‍

You know your work wife best, so plan something she’ll enjoy. Is she someone who loves surprises and being in the spotlight? Or would she prefer a quiet lunch with a small group? Best practice: ask her what she’d like ahead of time to ensure it’s just right.

‍

2. Introduce Her to The Society of Working Moms 💼

The Society of Working Moms is a virtual community for moms balancing family and careers. Membership includes networking opportunities, workshops, and weekly coaching (even by certified matrescence coaches!). It’s a supportive space to navigate the challenges of working motherhood.

‍

Check out The Society of Working Moms!

‍

3. Learn About Matrescence

‍

Matrescence is the physical, emotional, and psychological transformation a mother goes through after giving birth. Think of it like adolescence, complete with hormonal shifts and identity changes.

‍

Understanding this process helps both you and your work wife:

‍

• For her: It normalizes feelings of uncertainty or emotional changes.
• For you: It reminds you that she’s navigating a big transition and may need extra grace.

‍

4. Don’t Just Encourage Self-Care—Enable It! 🧘‍♀️

‍

A gift certificate for a nail salon or a museum is a great start, but pair it with a plan for childcare. Offering to watch her little one or arranging a trusted babysitter can make that time feel truly restorative.

‍

5. “Make It a Double” (Coffee, That Is) ☕

‍

On your next coffee run, grab her favorite drink too—especially if she’s still navigating sleepless nights. If she’s more into at-home coffee, consider gifting her a subscription to her beverage of choice.

‍

6. If She’s Pumping, Gift Her Two Hands-Free Bras

‍

Hands-free pumping bras make life so much easier. And two bras? That cuts the laundry juggle in half! Brands like Kindred Bravely, Bodily, and Larken offer great options.

‍

7. Bring Food 🍴

‍

If she’s pumping, snacks are a lifesaver. Bring her favorite treats, pack an extra lunch, or surprise her with a heat-and-eat dinner for her family. If you’re feeling extra ambitious, coordinate a meal train with coworkers (and check for any dietary preferences!).

‍

8. Include Her in Everything

Make sure she’s part of meetings and projects, and accommodate her schedule if needed for pumping or other responsibilities. Beyond work, invite her to social gatherings—even if she says no, the invitation matters.

‍

And don’t forget to hype her up! Celebrate her wins, recognize her contributions, and sing her praises when she’s not in the room.

‍

Consistency Is Key

‍

Returning to work as a new mom can be overwhelming. Instead of vague offers like, “Let me know if you need anything,” try providing concrete help. For example, “Here are three things I thought of: 1. Bringing lunch, 2. Watching the baby for an hour, 3. Picking up coffee—would any of these help?”

‍

No two moms are alike, and her needs will change over time. The most important thing? Keep showing up.

‍