When should you go on maternity leave?

Question

Currently 31w due 11/13/22 and I’ve been really thinking about this. Where I live you only get 12 weeks (paid) you could take more if you want but after 12 weeks government won’t pay you. 
Seeing as I’m gonna be a single mom I need to work as much as I could but I work in a kitchen so it really isn’t feasible for me to work until I pop but I also want to spend as much time as I can with babe before going back to work so I don’t want to take it too early. But anyone I ask doesn’t really give an answer that’s helpful just “whenever you’re ready/ want to” 
I’ve also been thinking of switching jobs after. I did set myself up to have a good amount of funds that should at least hold me over. 
When did you go on leave and/or how long?

Answer

Lucky I’m only getting 2 weeks paid. Single mom of going to be 2.  I’m only going to be able to take 6 weeks. I plan on working right up until I deliver. I really don’t see why some women take weeks before due date, there is no reason to unless put on bed rest.

Answer

I got 8 weeks unpaid and I took leave only after I’d given birth. You’ll probably prefer to have the most time you possibly can and afford for after baby is born to be with your baby. Just take it week by week.

Answer

I worked until the day before I was induced and then went back when my son was exactly one month old. I was paid for that month, but I wish I could’ve taken more time.

Answer

I get 6 weeks paid and I have worked up to the day I went into labor with both my kids and plan on doing it again.

Answer

I didnt leave until the night before my scheduled csection with my oldest. The more time you take now is less time you get to have with your baby and to be bonding with them. I always recommend going until you absolutely cant

When should you go on maternity leave?

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