Work/doctor frustrations.

Today at my 33/34 week appointment my regular ob was back from her maternity leave. She has always been nice, though a bit dry humored, and I have always felt good about her care.

I work in an automotive factory. I've worked there for over 5 years, I have great insurance and make a good wage. It's extremely physical work, though I'm currently in a good area with a pretty good job. I'm on my feet all day. I deal with a lot of stress since I'm a team leader and I deal with conflicts, repairs, paperwork etc. I also work 75 miles (one way) from where I live, so 8-9 hrs plus drive time is about 12 hrs of my day.

Talking with my bosses they were all curious when I'd be leaving since most workers leave around 36-38 weeks unless they have under a year in. I was planning on leaving around 37 weeks, since my son was born at 38 weeks.

My work will allow me to go out with a doctor's note at any time. It's 60% of my pay.

Today, I had the "when should I stop working" talk with my doctor who immediately shot me down saying, "unless there's a medical reason, like preterm labor, it's between you and your employer. I won't write a note."

She said she'd write a restriction saying I should get bathroom breaks when needed and not to lift heavy stuff, but that's it.

I cried when I walked out of that office.

I know people have it worse, but I'm worried about the drive, about the aches and pains of doing my job plus the 40lbs extra I'm carrying, about being more tired than I already am everyday waking up at 3am to make sure I'm there by 6am.

I don't have a desk job.

I don't have the option of changing jobs or staying home.

I wasn't asking for a note right now, just that it's a possibility later down the line, but she pretty much shot that down and that aches and pains and swelling aren't medical reasons to not work.

Sorry its long. Just so beyond frustrated.