...to take time off work because of a bad ultrasound result?

[Nessalina]

So, let me start by saying, I am almost never off work, I'd say I've had 2 sick days in the last 3-4years.
We went on Friday for the 12 week scan for our first pregnancy, and unfortunately it looks like there's something very wrong. Baby has 9.3 NT and fluid in the chest. Doctor said that they don't see many babies with this sort of thing go to term We're back in tomorrow for tests to find out more.
Have spent most of the weekend in a daze, doing too much thinking and a lot of crying. Told my boss on Friday what had happened, as I was due in Saturday and wouldn't have been able to work, and I'd also need Monday off for tests. Which was fine.
The issue is, I don't see how I can go back to work on Tuesday. I'm an absolute mess right now, and I don't work in a job where I can just hide, I'm a manager and I'm in contact with staff and customers all day. My staff know I'm pregnant and I just can't face them not knowing what the hell is going on yet. The thought of going in and being normal just feels beyond me right now.
I want to sign myself off for the week, and take some time to get myself together, but I feel bad about my team managing without me, and it feels self indulgent, even though it feels like the right thing...
Sorry for the essay, just wanted to get some second opinions.

Not unreasonable at all, I'm really sorry to hear things are so unsure with your pregnancy at the moment.

Hope it turns out better than expected.

When we found something wrong on the u/s (missing hand so nothing like as bad) dh's work told him to come in when he could manage to. He's expected to be back at work by 11:00 (8:30 appointment) for a meeting and totally missed it and hadn't thought of phoning either so he was AWOL.

He did go back in that afternoon, because he's the sort of person who is better busy, but did have the next day off to support me, and further days to go for consultant appointments. I think they even paid him full not sickpay too (though I might be wrong there). I wouldnt' have been up to going back for at least a fortnight though.

Take as much time as you need, someone would need a heart of stone not to understand that. You could ask your doctor if you could be signed off.

I hope today's tests bring better news.

I've been here recently. You need to do what's best for you. I went to work, but found that being around strangers kept me out of my head and away from Google. But I work alone, and being with loads of people who knew I was Pg would have been different. I know that those were the longest days I've ever lived through so being busy did help.
I really hope that you get some better news from the next tests. I can thoroughly second the recommendation to check out the "Antenatal tests/choices" section here. Its at the top of the topics list under "Being a parent".
The amazing posters there have helped me keep it together, that's a fact!
Anyway, fingers crossed and holding your hand. Lots of love to you both. xxx

I have been where you are. I'm so sorry you're going through this.

You need to take the time off. People WILL manage without you, even if you did go in, your mind would not be on the job.

I hope you get better news today.

I had 2 weeks off after a bad scan. Be kind to yourself. Hope it works out. My bad scan is now 11. Everything crossed for you.

You are only human. Be kind to yourself. Hope all is well op.

Please do not worry in the slightest about taking time off work. They know your excellent record, they know this is a very difficult time for you.

Have also been where you are - though ours was bad blood test results, I totally get the shock and the unrealness of knowing you are pg but not knowing what is going on with the baby and being worried sick and feeling helpless.

DHs boss also told HIM to take off as much time as he needed to look after me and to attend appointments locally and in London. Could your DP manage to get some time off?

(hugs)

For fucks sake take as much time as you need off. Anyone who would object to that would have to be a monster.

Decision made! Called HR and self-certified for the week. Feel massive relief.
Just went for second scan, which didn't have any better news but I feel kind of better for having more information. Basically baby has 70-80% chance of having a chromosome disorder, but due to awkward placenta placement couldn't do CVS today, so waiting another week to try again. Consultant at this stage says baby has 5% chance of continuing to term and being healthy. Which I know is crap, but 5/100 times it happens, so focusing on that right now.
Thanks for all your kind words xx

Absolutely the right decision, now you don't have to worry about work at all.

All the best, whatever happens you will find heaps of support here. Keep us posted.

Glad you have taken time off work, hoping for positive news for you.

So glad you have taken a week off. I hope all works out for you

Oh I am so sorry you have had this news

YANBU at all.

I work in HR and would be giving you compassionate leave without a seconds hesitation

You take all the time you need. If they are even vaguely human your colleagues will understand.

You just need to look after you at this time, not be worrying about your work