Fact Check: Women often earn less after returning from maternity leave.

Published July 3, 2025

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# Fact Check: "Women often earn less after returning from maternity leave." ## What We Know The claim that women often earn less after returning from...

Fact Check: "Women often earn less after returning from maternity leave."

What We Know

The claim that women often earn less after returning from maternity leave is supported by several studies and reports. According to a report by Payscale, women with children earn only 75 cents for every dollar that fathers make, highlighting the persistent "childbearing penalty." This disparity remains unchanged from previous years, indicating that the financial impact of maternity leave continues to affect women's earnings significantly. Furthermore, the American Association of University Women (AAUW) has noted that the gender pay gap tends to widen for women as they age, particularly due to caregiving responsibilities that often fall on them.

Additionally, a study by Simkins emphasizes that while the overall gender pay gap is approximately 14.3%, it narrows to about 7.7% when only comparing full-time employees. This suggests that the gap is exacerbated by factors such as part-time work or career interruptions, which are common for women after maternity leave.

Analysis

The evidence supporting the claim is robust, with multiple credible sources confirming that women face a significant earnings penalty upon returning from maternity leave. The Payscale report is particularly noteworthy as it draws on data from over 369,000 individuals, providing a comprehensive view of the gender pay gap across various demographics. The report's findings are corroborated by other studies, including those from the AAUW and Simkins, which highlight the systemic barriers women face in the workforce.

However, it is essential to consider the potential biases in these studies. For instance, while Payscale's data is extensive, it relies on self-reported salary information, which can sometimes lead to inaccuracies. Similarly, the AAUW's focus on women in academia may not fully represent the experiences of women in other sectors. Despite these limitations, the consistency of the findings across various studies suggests a reliable trend.

Moreover, the concept of the "motherhood penalty" is well-documented in academic literature, indicating that societal norms and workplace structures often disadvantage women who take maternity leave. This penalty not only affects immediate earnings but can also have long-term implications for career advancement and overall financial stability.

Conclusion

The claim that women often earn less after returning from maternity leave is True. The evidence from multiple reputable sources consistently shows that women face significant earnings penalties related to maternity leave, which are exacerbated by societal norms and workplace practices. These findings highlight the need for continued efforts to address gender pay disparities and support women in the workforce.

Sources

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