Three years ago, I embarked on my PhD journey at Amsterdam UMC, delving into the fascinating world effects of pregnancy on the female brain. The intersection of hormones and brain function had always captured my interest, and now I had the opportunity to study it in depth. But today, I’m not here to talk about my research. Because one year ago, I found myself living the very subject of my research: I became pregnant. It was a great experience, analyzing the brain changes that come with pregnancy while undergoing them myself. In this blog, I want to share several important things to reflect on when becoming a parent during your PhD.

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First, let’s talk about timing. The decision to try for a baby is deeply personal and influenced by numerous factors, but your work situation inevitably plays a role. It’s worth considering how far along you are in your PhD and the terms of your contract. How much time do you have left, and what are your long-term career goals? Do you want to stay in academia, potentially facing several short-term postdoc contracts, or are you planning to move into a different, perhaps more stable, field?

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For me, the decision was somewhat eased by the fact that I have a five-year contract working 80%, and my supervisor encourages a healthy work-life balance. I’m aiming to stay in academia, so while the future may hold more uncertainty, I felt secure in my current position.

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Second, know your rights. When I joined the PhD board at my institution, I learned a lot about the rights of pregnant PhD candidates—and their partners too. Labour agreements can be complex, and they differ from country to country, but it’s essential to familiarize yourself with both national laws and your institution’s policies.

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At my institution, for example, your contract should be extended by the length of your maternity leave. Unfortunately, not all supervisors are aware of this. I’ve heard too many stories of women struggling to complete their PhDs because they weren’t given the time they were entitled to. In those situations, HR can be your greatest ally—they’re there to ensure your rights are respected, so don’t hesitate to reach out to them early on.

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This applies not only to parental leave, but also other labour agreements linked to pregnancy and parenthood. Another example from the Netherlands: you’re entitled to spend 25% of your working hours pumping or breastfeeding at work. While I don’t need quite that much time myself, knowing that the option exists has made me feel more comfortable and less guilty when I do need to take the extra breaks. So make sure to read about specific rules and agreements.

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Third, clear communication is essential. Having an open and honest conversation with your supervisor and perhaps your colleagues about your plans for parental leave and your eventual return to work can help manage expectations and foster a supportive work environment. It's important to address any concerns or logistical matters early on to ensure a smooth transition.

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Unfortunately, not all experiences are positive. I’ve heard stories from women who were asked about their plans to start a family already during their PhD interview—a question that is both inappropriate and illegal in many countries. It’s disheartening to know that such practices still occur. It’s crucial to remember that no one should face discrimination for their family choices, and HR is there to advocate for you if necessary.

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Thankfully, there seems to be a shift towards more inclusive work environments, where supervisors are increasingly aware of the need for flexibility. Parenthood may require some additional planning, but with the right support and understanding, it’s entirely possible to continue your career without sacrificing your personal life.

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Overall, becoming a mother during my PhD has been a rewarding experience. I’m fortunate to have supportive colleagues and a supervisor who understands the demands of balancing research and parenthood. Outside of work, I have a strong support system, which has made all the difference in managing my new responsibilities. One practical piece of advice: start thinking about childcare early. In the Netherlands, daycare waiting lists can be long, so it’s wise to begin the search as soon as possible during your (or your partner’s) pregnancy.

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In the end, pursuing a PhD and becoming a parent are both monumental undertakings, each filled with challenges and rewards. With careful planning, open communication, and the right support, it is possible to navigate both at the same time.