Maternity leave second time around- ahhh!

[Nikbev]

I have a 2.5yr old son, and also a 12 week old son. I am really really struggling to get ‘back into the swing of things’ with my second maternity leave.

I took a while to adjust first time round, but this time I just feel like every day is such a struggle and I long for it to be the boys bedtime again. I love them both so much, and I do enjoy seeing the bond they are developing but I really do just find it so stressful and draining every day.

My eldest is at nursery 3 mornings a week, but the afternoons and the full days we have together are a constant battle to keep him entertained so I can get my youngest off to sleep (for all of 20-30mins it seems!). Some days are lovely and I feel so lucky and blessed. Other days are horrendous and I just want a break for an hour or so.

I have thought of going back to work many times but I am worried I will regret it and I will feel guilty for spending 9 months off with my eldest and potentially only 3-4 months off with my second.

Having said that, my blood pressure is high Since the birth and I am having to have regular checks with the doctors which is likely to result in medication. My husband is brilliant but he’s out the house 7-5:30 5 days a week.

Does anyone else feel the same, or did you have a much shorter maternity leave second time around?

Any thoughts or advice are welcome

Hi OP, I am in a similar situation. I have a 2.5 year old dc and a 7 month old dc. It’s really hard work- I have no advice apart from get support from family if you have any nearby and try to get out everyday.

I've got a 2yr 2m age gap and the years mat leave with them both was really hard. I found juggling them both and never being able to get the baby down for a proper nap very stressful. I did take the full year - felt I owed it to baby two - and things are better now they're a bit older. Youngest is 18m and they play together and can be left in a room alone while I get a cup of coffee without hurting each other!