timeline of returning to work, post HG?

[becca93]

I'm expected back at work, reduced schedule but still teaching college students, 17 days after my EDD with my first child. No paid leave. No other options (I asked and even begged a little today) with employer. Taking unpaid leave is pretty much no option, either, since I support the household and my DP can't begin to cover the costs.

If I don't deliver early, how screwed might I potentially be, with a normal vaginal delivery (forget c-section)? Can one recover that quickly? Should I start poking around to see how open my OB is to induction a week or two before the EDD?

Any advice from BTDT moms, please?

[krdoty]

It's possible you could be up and running 17 days after an uncomplicated vaginal delivery. (My sister went back to work at an office job 10 days after a vaginal delivery.) I probably could have returned to work 17 days post partum if I'd had to with my son, though it would not have been pleasant. I was still tired and a bit sore from my 2nd degree tear.

It might not be a bad idea to start talking to your doc now. Worst case scenario is that you get a no. Hopefully he/she will be a bit more sympathetic to your situation. Good luck!

[peanut]

This may be a stupid question, but do you have disability insurance? I know that during my first pregnancy I was employed per diem as a nurse and I got to sick leave or vacation. However, I was covered by short-term disability. Just a thought.


Lora

[JennyK]

Is there any way you could borrow money to give yourself a little more time? That's what I'd probably do. Unfortunately some people have to go back unreasonably early, but 17 days is not enough.

If you plan to BF, you'd better get your pump and learn how to use it ahead of time.

[jadeinoz]

Im not too sure how long they will let you go over with a vaginal birth where you are, but in australia, they let you go 14 days over your EDD. If thats the same case where you are, you would be just out of hospital at 17 days. I would try to put it off longer if possible. Its rediculous how we are expected to be up and running marathons so soon!!!

[Ben's Mom]

Where do you live? I didn't know you could be required to go back to work that early. It's 6 weeks here, 8 for a c-section.

[teddi]

Yeah, after a normal uncomplicated vaginal delivery you could be back at work in 17 days. Some moms are back to their relatively normal routine w/a day or two even. Most, maybe a week.

A c/s would really be pushing it.