I did, and I think its probably one of the bravest things I've done! I always was so sure that I would go back PT, I had a really good career, which has taken me years to get to the role I was in. BUT, I also, had no idea how I would feel about my daughter and how much I would enjoy being at home.
Friends and family thought I was winding them up when I told them!
So, I decided to stay at home and resigned from my job. Financially, we've made a few adjustments, but nothing drastic.
I think the most important thing is that it has to be both your and your partners decision, having the support of dh in this has been crucial.
Now that I am a few months into being at home - and not on maternity, reality has hit home in some ways...
-I do actually have to do this every day, and it's shattering!
-I do have to find a range of activities to get us out the house and so that I can talk to other people - when your nct crowd have gone back to work! Unlike work, unless you plan out your week, there is no real structure, I've made myself get out and join playgroups etc. because otherwise it is a long day - espec in the winter
-I do have to do the cleaning and ironing myself as no cleaner now, DH helps out but I would rather we had fun time at the weekend than cleaning
-Supportive partners are great, but it's not like work, no one really pats you on the back, says you're doing a great job and takes you out for a long lunch!! The validation that you get at work, doesn't really exist at home in the same way! However, being able to see my dd do things that I would have missed, more than makes up for things.
I get up in the morning and feel really lucky that I was able to make this choice.
It is a tough one though, so good luck making the big decision. We have to be grateful that we can choose! There is no right answer!