How much Maternity leave did you take?

Pam • 👼🏻👼🏻👶🏻🤰🏼

I live in Canada and will be choosing the 1 year maternity leave option for my household. That being said, I am the breadwinner and am considering going back to work earlier than the 1 year mark while my OH takes the other part of the maternity leave. I have literally never seen anybody else that I know split their leave with their husband or partner and am wondering if any of you ladies have experienced this? When asked, he said that he would be happy to take 3 or 4 months, or whatever makes me happiest.

I know that I am so lucky to live in a country where a year-long leave is possible, but with only 55% of my wage to live on, going back early would assist in some of the financial stress. Additionally I can only imagine how strong the daddy/baby relationship will be when they get all day together.

The thought of going back to work earlier than I have to makes me feel happy for my OH but concerned that I’ll feel sad when the day comes earlier than necessary. I just feel like he should be entitled to that special time as well - we are BOTH parents to this little bundle coming in April.

Any thoughts or shared experiences would be greatly appreciated. ❤️

I’m not sure what to do.