AIBU Wanting to take unpaid maternity leave by dipping into house savings?

[Rosemarymountains]

I’m due to go back at the end of the year (39 weeks SMP) but after doing some KIT days it’s made me realise I really do not feel ready to go back. I’m also worried about going back soon because my baby has aversions to feeding and has been on NG tube a few times. As his mum I want to be there whilst he weans rather than expecting grandparents or nursery to do so.

I have savings, not much but they are there as we want to move into a bigger place. I’d have to dip into the savings to afford mortgage, bills whilst I take 3 months unpaid. My partner doesn’t earn enough to pay for both of our share of mortgage and bills.

My partner isn’t sure I should take this time off with him unpaid due to the dip in our savings. I’ve spoken to family members and friends who agree with my partner but I can’t help but feel like me and baby both need this extra time.

Can you relate to this? AIBU? Or shall I go for it?

You are suggesting it as a ‘freebie’ and it’s not the way to behave

I just want to say, you never feel ready to go back, no mum wants to leave their baby. What you’re feeling is absolutely normal. I did however have 9 months off with my children. How about a compromise- see what holiday you’ve accrued and go from there, but i would suggest keeping a bit of holiday in case baby is poorly and you have to take time off. Try not to dip into house savings too much, it will be hard to top those back up

@LittleBearPad not necessarily the worst option tbh, OP has explained about her previous circumstances and is naturally worried and anxious about her child’s feeding, this is bound to have an impact on anyone’s mental health, mental health is real, if OP doesn’t feel ready returning back to work this can trigger worse depression.

OP has a lot to deal with, I think she has every right to speak with a GP about the circumstances and how she’s feeling, they will then decide if a sick note is the right solution.