Is anyone out there delaying the next baby on account of work issues?

[highsidedown]

I think I'm going to but I'm not sure if I'm mad to do so. In my case, it's because a very good job has come up and it's a short-ish contract where it would be very very awkward to take maternity leave, at least initially. The idea is that if I take this job it will eventually lead to a career that is far more flexible when the kid(s) are at school so in theory it's worth delaying TTC by 6 months or so. But, I'm absolutely desperate for another baby (my DD has just turned one) and I'm 36 already. Am I completely mad to delay TTC - especially at my age (I got pregnant first month last time but know there's no guarantees for the second baby)? I just wondered if anyone out there is or has been in a similar situation - and what did you do?

[Kathyis6incheshigh]

I delayed a bit. I'm 37 and already have 2 dcs, have been wanting another for a year or so but it was important for me to prove I could do my job effectively again before going off on yet another maternity leave.

So my bottom line was 'I will not get pregnant until I have fulfilled all my teaching commitments for this year' (I am an academic).

Anyway I literally got pregnant the first shag! So I am v glad I waited.

I know there are no guarantees, but given that you were very fertile last time, and that you are 36 not 40, I would probably take the risk of waiting 6 months in your position. Good luck.

[saladodger]

I too am delaying ttc no.2 at the moment as DH's job looks rocky and my job is 'safe'. Just can't risk needing to go on maternity pay at the minute. Also know that if I did have a second child I'd want to take a year off this time. I'm 36.

[highsidedown]

Glad to hear I'm not alone, thanks for responding! I know that everybody says there's never a good time to have a baby, but I suppose there are particularly bad times. Good luck with the baby kathy and with your husband's job saladodger.