Struggling with when to start mat leave?

[1sttimemama2b]

I know everyone is different and this is a personal decision. But I'm just curious when ladies are leaving work. I guess I feel torn. Some days I feel like I should try to stick it out as long as I can because I need the money as I won't be returning to my job after baby comes. On the other hand I am tired!! I'm not sleeping well and my job is physically demanding at times (I take care of a 2 1/2 year old). I feel like wuss if I don't tough it out till the end some days. Then other days I feel guilty for working so much because I wonder if I'm hurting the baby or myself. I was planning on going to 38 weeks. But now I'm thinking I need to cut back hours soon. My boss asked me a month ago how i was feeling and said to let her know if I want to cut back. But I was feeling fine then so she continues to schedule me for 9-10 hour shifts some days. It's just getting really tough. But then again we could use the money since i won't be working soon. I feel so torn!!

I apologize because I think I posted this same topic already.

 

[hayleyet]

It's a tough one isn't it? I was in a similar position, I will be going back after 9months leave but needed to work as long as possible so i earned as much as possible. I was going to work until 38weeks but it was starting to really drain me. I got really bad pelvic girdle pain and was like a zombie by the time I got home. I didn't feel safe on the drive home either as was so tired and didn't have anyone who could give me a lift. I stopped at 36weeks and so far have spent most of my days in bed, it's made such a difference being able to have a nap a few times a day and just take things at my own pace. I definitely made the right decision for me but everyones different. Sorry if that's not much help but all I'd say is listen to your body, bubs needs a healthy rested mummy as well as funds in the bank. Xx

 

[aileymouse]

I'm due end of June and I'm leaving end of May. so I'll be 35ish weeks.

That's enough for me, would love to leave earlier as I work long days in a shop so on my feet for 9 hours a day and it's killing my back legs and feet and my boss doesn't seem to think it's a problem...