When to start maternity leave?

kmeast

I agree it is a personal thing - but my advice would be to plan to work until as late as possible, but if it all gets too much bring the date forwards. More often than not your first baby is late and then you have too much time to think about things at home!!

jellyhead

congratulations

with my first i had a nice easy office job (quit my weekend job at 8 weeks, i was just too tired for both jobs) but was ill all the time and was finally signed off for 3 months :eek: by my doctor with infectious mononucleosis (i think that means glandular fever lol!) so i left at only 18 weeks pregnant.

with my second i was standing up doing a physical job and had to leave at 32 weeks pregnant but if i'd had an office job i probably would have stayed longer as it was an easy pregnancy.

i agree with waiting to see how you feel nearer the time, work might hassle you if they want to get a replacement sorted out but you don't have to tell them an exact date right now.

fruit-loop

Wow! So many replies with loads of helpful advice. Thanks guys.:T

I am keeping quiet about it at the moment but my bosses know because work for my OH and his Dad! Its really going to leave them in it when i leave so was hoping to work as late as possible.

donna-j_2

I stopped at 35 weeks and took 4 weeks annual leave. However, baby was 11 days late so I had been sitting around for ages, and ended up putting on loads of weight in the last few weeks as I wasn't walking down to the bus stop etc and I was bored so kept snacking. In hindsight, I wish I had worked another couple of weeks and got the holiday as cash rather than sitting on my backside.

rchddap1

Currently on 'holiday leave' due to start 'maternity' a week before due date. Kept working until week 36 of pregnancy. Easy office sit down job....but with a long drive. Its honestly personal choice. I was/am lucky in that my employers were happy for me to play it by ear....and my bean is playing nice. Some can't work late due to problems. Other's work right up until they drop.