It was just a pregnant pause. Literally!

Criminal Minds recently wrote out expectant J.J. Jareau due to the the real-life pregnancy of actress A.J. Cook. As TV Guide reports, though, executive producer Ed Bernero's plan was always for Cook to return to work when ready.

And she's ready!

A.J. will resurface next week, as J.J. pays the BAU a visit with her own newborn in tow.

Reportedly, Cook taped the special scene not long after giving birth to her son, Mekhai Allan Andersen, on September 13.

Following the December 17 Criminal Minds episode, Cook will exit again, as she takes a proper maternity leave. She'll come back full-time beginning with Episode 14, which ought air in February.

Matt Richenthal is the Editor in Chief of TV Fanatic. Follow him on Twitter and on Google+.