WWYD - extend sick leave?

[Sprat12]

I’m 31 weeks and have been signed off work as my fibro symptoms have massively escalated over the last few weeks. Along with PGP and anaemia, I’ve been struggling to sleep and my pain levels are off the charts. I’m due to go back to work on Monday but after yet another awful night, I am just dreading it.

I’ve never been signed off work in my life so this is very new to me, and I feel terribly guilty about not being at work. DH wants me to get signed off again for a week or two (which I should be able to do without my mat leave kicking in, as not due until 1st may) but I’m really conflicted about it.

I wfh mostly, so in theory I should just be able to log on and get on with it, but due to the horrendous broken sleep and pain meds early mornings, I’m not good until about mid morning. I work in a very small team and I feel horrible that I’ve left them in the lurch.

I’m seeing the midwife tomorrow so I’m going to speak to her about it then, but WWYD?

If you need the time off, then take it. If you're not well enough to work then you're not, just because it's related to pregnancy doesn't mean you have to power through.

What's your boss like - would they be open to you moving your hours going forward so that you start later in the morning? Or would your dr/midwife recommend reduced hours/phased return for you so that you can start mid morning?

Are you a union member? Speak to them if you are and see what they can negotiate on your behalf. Pregnancy related sick leave should be exempt from normal sickness policy.

Pregnancy is a time to prioritise you and your health, once your baby is here having the time off will be a very distant memory that you likely won't care about.