So, I'm trying to figure out when I should start my maternity leave, and I'd love some input. We make our schedules about a month out (I love that this job allows me to make my own schedule!), so we'll have to have our requests for February in by either the last week of December or first week of January. My due date is currently February 11th.

Some background: I only work two days per week, but the work is pretty laborious. I work for a company that does newborn photos at a couple of different hospitals in the area. The work includes pushing a 100lb cart, carrying heavy bags, bending, lifting, crouching, getting up and down from the ground frequently, and lots of walking/standing. My hours are usually 9am-4pm, but there are times I haven't gotten out until 7pm.

My original plan was to work until my due date, but I'm already having a really hard time at work. I have major BH every time I work, but usually sitting & water help with that. Sometimes I feel like I was rolled around in a cement mixer by the time I get home, and other days I feel fine. So, now I'm not sure if I should just try to push myself until February 11th, or if I should just start my leave earlier. This is my first pregnancy, so I really have no idea how I'll be feeling by 39 or 40 weeks! I hate to be put into the schedule for February, and then not be able to work & have to be covered for, but I also would hate to not be on the schedule and then feel great.

So, ALL OF THAT to say, what do you guys think? When did you start your maternity leave? What would you do in my case? The end of December is approaching quickly, and I'm not sure what to do!