Feel guilty taking time off work??

[Babyn1]

I know this is really stupid and I don’t know what I’m expecting anyone to say BUT has anyone else experienced guilt taking time off work? I’m 11+5 and haven’t had time off yet as I’ve been fine, but I’m at a point where I’m just so so tired and have a lot on both in work and personally and feel like I just need a day to rest especially as having the odd cramp (I know is normal but makes me worry) but I can’t help but feel so bad taking time off because I’m not actually sick or poorly and just need some time. Somehow convincing myself that I’ll get bad karma and soemthing bad will happen…. So silly I know!

any advice?!

I personally wouldn't, as you don't know if you might need more time off later on in pregnancy.

Just take the time off you need. I learnt the hard way during my first pregnancy working as a key worker through covid and ended up delivering at 36 weeks. This time I needed time off and I put a 4 week sick note in. You and your babies health is the most important thing take it easy x

Take time off if you need it - hopefully you'll start to feel better in second trimester. May be worth completing a risk assessment at work and looking at options such as WFH and reducing/ changing hours.
Fingers crossed you do start to feel better and your energy levels should increase in the next few weeks x

Take a day off or two to chill and think about yourself or just nothing at all. Take it annual leave if you feel guilty ☺️ you’re not a robot and you need to listen to your physical and mental health needs.

Have you had your iron levels checked yet ??

If it's your first baby, then the long weekend is for resting!

Are you in a job where short notice leave can be taken? If so, just do it

One thing to keep in mind is whether or not you receive sick pay.

Especially for SMP calculation, there is a period called the 'qualifying week' which is 15 weeks before due date, and your pay during that week is used to calculate your eligibility for Statutory Maternity Pay.

workingfamilies.org.uk/articles/calculating-maternity-pay/

This is my first baby I’m 32 weeks today and I have taken so much time off work during this pregnancy. Luckily I get sick pay (without doctors note) and can work from home. Due to all the time off I said I’d work til 38 weeks and now I’m regretting that decision. Im absolutely exhausted, this pregnancy has been high risk throughout I feel like I could sleep for a week.
My advice would be if you and your body need a break then do it otherwise you’ll end up breaking down with exhaustion like I feel I’m about too x

I was off sick for two weeks in the first trimester as I was just so sick . You aren't going to get any medals for dragging yourself in and suffering you need to rest and take some time for yourself

Nothing wrong with taking a day to rest and I believe pregnancy related sickness is protected. Can you negotiate working from home a bit?
I was scheduled to finish at 36 weeks (today!) and take 2 weeks holiday before mat leave starts but they aren't replacing me and are now panicking that yes I'm actually going (they've known since January!). I'm now staying on for those 2 weeks but mainly WFH means I can carry those holidays over and they get me a bit longer albeit at reduced capacity but they are fine with that. Think it's a bit of a give and take especially if you have a long-standing relationship with your employer.