I have had 3 children already. One in the 37th week of pregnancy and two in the 38th week which leaves me struggling to determine how far along I should be when I go on Maternity Leave? I simply quit my last job when the last bub was almost due so I have never had to deal with leave before.
I wanna work for as long as I can so im not bored at home bringing in zero income, but I also dont want my waters to break or to go into labour at work in front of everybody - which is just my luck!
How far along were you when you went on leave? Its so freaking hard to judge! Are you allowed to work up until you throw in the towel? Has anyone done that?
6 Replies
It depends on your job, if they're flexible they might let you give a weeks notice, I told them I would work up as far as possible and they said ok just let us know, but I pushed it until I really hated the idea of going anymore. Second time I took care of my body and rested and it was such a nicer experience. I say go as early as you can afford to.
Depends on the job and also employers insurance as some staff arnt covered past 36 weeks.
34 weeks. Anything beyond that you need medical clearance so your workplace can cover their butts
I am a hairdresser so on my feet all day. I finished up at 34-35 the first time and the second time 30 weeks. I did cut down to part time at about 25 weeks with both.
Office job, went until 38 weeks as I was a temp government employee and was not entitled to maternity leave. I was full time, it was pretty tough, I would make my decision based on finances. If I could have afforded to, probably would have finished around the 34 week mark. Also everyone job, every person and every pregnancy is different, can you play it by ear? Congratulations on your pregnancy!
My colleague had her 3rd late last year. She had planned to work up to her due date since her first 2 were dragged kicking and screaming into the world induced each at 14 days over, however she went into labour a week before her due date at work. She felt her first contractions early afternoon, drove herself to hospital at 5pm and gave birth at 9pm.
I worked to 37 weeks with my one and only and ended up giving birth at 40+6.
It does depend on your job too. If its physical you might need to finish sooner.