Maternity leave

[tay21]

Hi, just wondering when people stopped working during their pregnancy? Currently 25 weeks and thinking it's time to give up soon is this too early?

My maternity leave started on the 21st, I was due on the 23rd (this month). So glad I left it so late as I knew my baby wouldn't want to leave any time soon

38 weeks. DD was 12 days late. I was so BORED.

I'd stay in work as long as possible, unless your work is extremely physical.

I stopped at 37 weeks (was poorly and strongly advised by my consultant to stop asap). I then got induced at 38+0. However in your situation Op I would continue looking for jobs but don't put too much pressure on yourself to find something.

I left it very late - I was dictating my Out of Office message to DH from a hospital bed at 9/10cm dilated -- but actually that worked for me. I was self-employed, work not demanding, no commute, and actually the prospect of sitting at home just waiting with not much to distract me didn't appeal.

As long as you're doing what universal credit require in terms of applying for jobs then they can't do much so try not to let them stress you. I imagine given the rising unemployment it would be especially hard to find a job while pregnant. At least you know you will be stopping the search soonish.

38 weeks, but I felt absolutely fine and wanted to have more time with the baby as I was only taking a few months mat leave. If you’re in a manual or otherwise tiring job role and struggling, then taking leave earlier is probably wise, but just be sure to weigh up all the options - there are benefits and downsides each way.

If you're not working you can start ML anytime you want 🤷‍♀️

Honestly no employer would touch you with a barge pole sorry to be blunt - you'd legally have to tell them as it's less than 15 weeks or whatever until your due date then presumably you'd be going on ML "proper" for a certain amount of time?

Worked to 38 weeks both times. First baby was 2 weeks late and it dragged! Second came just before due date and it was perfect. Both times I took leave until due date/date baby born and ML kicked in from then.

I think it might be tricky for you to find work atm but worth looking as money will be handy when baby is here!

I’ve been furloughed until the 3rd January so far when I’ll be 29 weeks and able to start maternity leave from then but I don’t want to take it this early, although I have been really sick with hyperemisis, I don’t see myself going back so don’t know what to do!!