Pandemic Nanay: Challenges and Coping Strategies of Working First-Time Mothers During the Pandemic

The pandemic profoundly affected the lives of people across the globe. Apart from being socially cut off, it brought changes, disrupting routine. Undeniably, the pandemic took a toll, especially on working women who experienced their first childbirth at the height of the Covid-19 pandemic. Hence, it is imperative to assess and analyze the challenges working first-time mothers face during these trying times. This descriptive narrative research delved into the challenges encountered by working first-time mothers and the coping strategies they imply in relation to these challenges. The majority of mothers consider their physical, financial, and emotional conditions as significant challenges during pregnancy and even after childbirth. However, results showed these challenges indirectly affected their work productivity, particularly during pregnancy. On the other hand, open communication, time management, and family support are the most common coping strategies that helped them overcome the challenges. Discriminating policies about employment status is one of the issues raised in terms of maternal benefits. With an average grand mean of 4.13, working first-time mothers agree that they received relevant post-natal support. Consequently, it is proposed that more policies supporting working mothers, regardless of employment status, be created.