Hi everyone. Haven't been on here for ages! I have been off on maternity leave and am due to go back in September (a whole year off although I gave birth in January I had time off before as I had a difficult pregnancy). I am thinking though that I would really like more time off to spend with them so am thinking of waiting another 4 months. Has anyone else been on maternity leave for that long? I don't want to seem unprofessional but on the other hand I really want more time at home with my babies. Thanks.

======= Date Modified 11 Jun 2010 16:20:37 =======
Timefortea,

I understand you sooooooo well. I took 8 months before the birth, complex pregnancy and then I took 2 years with my daughter as I wanted to make the most of it. It was such a miracle for her to be ok after this crazy pregnancy I wanted to breasfeed as long as possible could and make sure she has all the attention she deserved for having been such a fighter! I am sure you understand what I mean :-)

I had my VIVA last week and passed with minor corrections, my daughter is healthy and happy in her life...so it was all worth it as I cannot imagine life without her
Of course you can take more time to be with your baby, just try to make sure not to lose all connections with your work, keep up to date with what is going on.
I am expecting baby number 2, normal pregnancy, so what a change!

Godd luck

can you opt to change the mode of your study to part time?

I think you need to investigate what's allowed first... at my Institution it's 12 months max (and indeed this is what my scholarship stipulates).....
Is it likely to give your supervisors the hibee jibees if you try and take more off (I think mine might be concerned that I'd never go back!)....
But at the end of the day, you need to make the decision based on what's best for you and your LO's

Thanks - I'll check what the policy is before suggesting it! MumPhDstudent - congratulations on your daughter and latest pregnancy - glad to hear it is going well! I feel like I am only just getting into the swing of looking after the babies now (yes, they are twins!) as the first few months were a daze and I want a little longer to enjoy them.