A survey of over 8,000 working mothers in Singapore has found that 29 per cent find it difficult to return to work, because of emotional challenges of leaving their child as well as needing to manage expectations when it comes to work schedules and goals.

But ultimately, the majority head back for financial reasons with 59 per cent citing it as their reason for returning. Another 25 per cent said they returned to work because they wanted a balance between taking care of their baby and having a career.

These results were revealed in a survey by voluntary welfare organisation I Love Children, a group which advocates having children in Singapore, and healthcare company Abbott, to understand the issues they face when returning to the workplace.

The findings were revealed on Tuesday at a press conference for Glow & Go, Mum!. It is the first in a series of workshops organised by I Love Children with support from Abbott to help mothers make a smooth transition back to work.