Os desafios da reinserção da mulher no mercado de trabalho após a licença maternidade: impactos no desempenho profissional e no bem-estar psicológico

Abstract

The reintegration of women into the labor market after maternity leave is a critical phase characterized by the need for complex personal restructuring and overcoming persistent institutional and cultural obstacles. In this sense, the general objective of this study was to present the challenges of women's reintegration into the labor market after maternity leave and its impacts on professional performance and psychological well-being. Methodologically, it was developed based on basic, qualitative, and exploratory research, with the main procedure being a bibliographic survey in databases such as SciELO, CAPES Periodicals Portal, and LILACS. Data selection prioritized studies published in the last 10 years (2015-2025). The main results demonstrate the existence of the "penalty of motherhood," evidenced by reduced salaries, fewer chances of promotion, and frequent dismissals soon after returning to work. Among the structural barriers, the glass ceiling and sticky floor stand out, preventing advancement to management positions, while the lack of infrastructure, such as breastfeeding rooms, compromises focus and productivity. Returning to the psychological realm of analysis, a high prevalence of guilt, anxiety, and chronic stress resulting from the overload of the double shift and the lack of organizational support and solid support networks was identified. From this perspective, this study reinforced that current labor structures weaken the career paths of mothers, and current legislation is insufficient to guarantee effective female empowerment. Therefore, the implementation of policies promoting support, flexible working hours, and encouraging participatory fatherhood is urgently needed to mitigate the exclusion and interruption of women's careers.