The Rise of Working Mothers in Singapore: Balancing Career and Family

As more Singaporean women pursue careers alongside motherhood, challenges remain in balancing professional ambitions with family responsibilities. However, innovative solutions and a shift in workplace perception are emerging to support working mothers and unlock their full potential.

The Challenges Faced by Working Mothers in Singapore

According to data from the World Bank’s Gender Data Landscape Report of Singapore, women’s labor force participation reached 62.3% in 2024, compared to 76.8% for men . Despite a steady increase in female participation over the past decade, many women still depart the workforce after childbirth due to caregiving responsibilities and childcare constraints.

This situation contributes to a “motherhood penalty,” with studies showing that 40% of working mothers in Singapore report negative impacts on their careers . Singapore’s demanding “hustle culture” often leads to a “stagnation cycle” triggered by maternity leave, sidelining mothers from leadership opportunities. Women also shoulder a disproportionate amount of unpaid care work, performing over three times more than men . A rigid corporate culture prioritizing “presenteeism” further disadvantages mothers who necessitate flexibility.

Advocating for Change and Support

Global maternity and baby care brand Momcozy is advocating for stronger workplace support and innovative solutions to help mothers maintain confidence and flexibility during the transition into parenthood. Policy discussions around childcare access and flexible working arrangements are gaining momentum as employers seek to retain women in the workforce.

Momcozy emphasizes the importance of shifting the narrative around motherhood, recognizing it not as a limitation but as a source of resilience, leadership, and perspective.

International Collaboration and Technological Solutions

Momcozy recently participated in AllBright’s STEP FORWARD campaign in London, serving as the Motherhood Tech Category Partner in a panel titled “Motherhood Works.” The event brought together healthcare professionals, scientists, and creative industry leaders to discuss how workplaces and communities can better support mothers returning to work and pursuing leadership roles.

These themes resonate across the Asia-Pacific region, where changing workforce expectations and rising living costs are prompting new conversations about parenting and career development.

Ellen Zhou, APAC Director of Marketing at Momcozy, highlights the need for both practical support and a change in perception. “Across Asia-Pacific, more women are pursuing meaningful careers while raising families, yet many still face structural challenges when returning to the workforce after childbirth. Technology can help restore flexibility and independence for mothers; from wearable breast pumps to smart baby care solutions, allowing them to manage work and family life with greater confidence. With the right support systems, motherhood can also be a time when women develop resilience, leadership and perspective that benefit workplaces and society as a whole.”

About Momcozy

Founded in 2018, Momcozy is a leading FemTech brand offering products designed to support mothers and babies from pregnancy through postpartum and beyond. The company is known for its wearable breast pumps, nursing bras, and other essential products, sold directly on its website and through major retailers like Babylist, Walmart, Target, and Amazon . Momcozy’s mission is to empower mothers with the comfort and support they need throughout their journey. As of 2024, Momcozy holds the largest global market share of wearable breast pumps .