Struggling after going back to work

[Lules]

I went back to work from mat leave 3 weeks ago and I'm finding it really hard. DS and I are tag teaming illnesses so it's completely exhausting and I've had to take time off. This is ok at the moment but won't be come September. Even in the few days neither of us have been ill I'm still finding it impossible to get basic housework done so the flat is a mess. DS used to sleep fine but has turned terrible for the last 6ish weeks so both me and my DH are exhausted and are sniping at each other. What can I do? Please tell me it gets better!

[thewideeyedpea]

It does get better I promise! It's always hard returning to work after mat leave but you will get into a routine (of sorts!) and so will your DS. Try not to worry about the housework too much , sometimes things have to slide a little. It's bloody hard being a working mum so congratulate yourself !

[melonribena]

It does get better! I was expressing at lunchtime and rushing home to feed ds after work while he barely slept.
I don't know how I got through it! But I did!
Don't put pressure on yourself, you're doing brilliantly.
If you can afford it, could you get a cleaner to do a bit?

[Lules]

Thank you for your advice. It does make me feel better. I just feel like I'm doing everything badly atm but it has only been a few weeks. We could afford a cleaner but the flat wouldn't be very tidy so I'm not sure if it would be worth it. I'll see how it goes for a couple more weeks and decide.

Maybe everything feels awful today because I've been awake from 2-5am, I think I have a throat/ear infection and I couldn't rest yesterday because the baby kept being sick. Actually when I put it like that I don't think anyone would be happy!

[Sparrowlegs248]

Are you full time? I've been back three days a week since April and that's bad enough. Thank God my request to reduce hours has been agreed, really didn't expect it, so so relieved.

I think if you can afford it, you need a cleaner at the very least. I get nothing done in the house on work days.

[melonribena]

I'm sure you could come to an arrangement with the cleaner that tidying was part of their role? Or sort specific places such as bathrooms and kitchen for them to do.

We got a cleaner recently and the difference to my mood coming home after a long day to a spotless house is incredible.

If not, I find what works for me is making a list of specific jobs and ticking them off. Doing a bit each day. You'll get a real sense of achievement but worry about it less as its on a list, not rattling around in your head!

[Lules]

Full time at the moment but will be dropping down to 3 days a week. I have a feeling that will be more like 4 days though.

I could cope better if I was getting proper sleep. DS went to sleep fine at 7 but then woke up at 9 and we've been awake since then. I want to go to bed!

[Lules]

And now he's developed blisters so I think it's hand, foot and mouth.

Anyone know how long is he likely to be off nursery?