The eternal dilemma

[Midge25]

Really don't know what to do. Am employed in the public sector, and after 8 years of grafting (massively overworked, stress levels through the roof etc) I got a highly sought-after secondment in Sept 2010, which allows me to specialise. It's for 3-5 years (notwithstanding the spending cuts) but I find myself constantly thinking about having another baby. We have a dd (3 years). My fear is that if I get pregnant, I won't be able to return to my current role - my contract is v vague and just refers to me having to work where demand is - but then am thinking that if I wait, I may be even less likely to be able to return - they may think I've 'had me chips' if I've got a year or two under my belt...?
Ultimately, I know this is one for me and DH to ponder, but would be grateful for thoughts/ideas/things we haven't considered...?
DH is in steady employment...

If you'd like another baby then go for it. Your family/happiness is the most important things and I'm sure other opportunities will come up if you've been selected in the past for such a secondment. I can imagine how you feel as I'm not going to be able to go back to my job having had dd last year (hours too long/overseas travel etc in my role). I am bitterly disappointed about it but wouldn't change having her for a minute. Have the baby! Good luck.

Totally agree with Tonga. There are only some many years you can have a baby. You have a lifetime for a career! If one door closes another one will shortly open.

midge Im actually in a very similiar situation, Im in the sector 5 years but am actually I'm just in my new role 7 weeks. I too am in the public sector (but not in the UK) I love the new job. Thing is, Im already pregnant - 27 weeks and will be going on maternity leave in May. I am terrified about loosing this role as I was desperately unhappy where I was previously but, like you, my contract is very vague and gives loads of scope for me to be legitimatally moved about.

We have an absolutely massive project coming up this year and my new boss, although lovely, has made it clear in his own way what a PITA it is that Im going and how stuck hes going to be (as its just the 2 of us here at the minute - eventually hoping to get more staff). Originally I had planned to take leave for a few weeks before maternity leave and unpaid after now, because of this Im going to work right up until the end (all going well) and take the bear 6 months maternity leave . I wouldnt not have had this baby though, my ds is only 13 months (dd is 5) because dh and I have chatted it through and decided (I know this sounds terrible) we'd rush through and finish the family together rather and then I can concentrate on career, if that makes sense - rather than settling into a role for 2 years, taking maternity leave (and lets face it, being set back) and so on...

At least now, when I return, I'll have our beautiful dc at home. I am worried though!! .. sorry for rambling. Was probably no help at all - just want to let you know your not on your own

Thanks all...tis such a dilemma. They say there ain't no discrimination against working women, but this is a good example of how things continue to differ...
my period is actually a bit late....so maybe I won't be puzzling over this one much longer...