I totally get it, retail at 25 weeks is really tough on the body, especially with the back and leg pain you're describing. Since you're under the government route, it's worth speaking to your PD or the doctor at the polyclinic about your symptoms and the fall risk at work - they can assess whether you qualify for HL before 28 weeks, because what you're describing (the leg jamming, the pain affecting your mobility, and working around sharp furniture) does sound like a legitimate safety concern. Many mums I know have managed to get earlier HL by documenting the physical demands and risks, so it's definitely worth asking rather than pushing through when you're at risk of falling. In the meantime, see if your store can adjust your duties a bit, like moving you away from those sharp tables or giving you more seated tasks if possible. Take care of yourself first.
I totally get it, retail at 25 weeks is really tough on the body, especially with the back and leg pain you're describing. Since you're under the government route, it's worth speaking to your PD or the doctor at the polyclinic about your symptoms and the fall risk at work - they can assess whether you qualify for HL before 28 weeks, because what you're describing (the leg jamming, the pain affecting your mobility, and working around sharp furniture) does sound like a legitimate safety concern. Many mums I know have managed to get earlier HL by documenting the physical demands and risks, so it's definitely worth asking rather than pushing through when you're at risk of falling. In the meantime, see if your store can adjust your duties a bit, like moving you away from those sharp tables or giving you more seated tasks if possible. Take care of yourself first.
I think you should seriously look at first changing your shoes to ensure that you are balancing your weight. When I was pregnant I used sketchers shoes, and recently tried this local brand called dmk Also pregnancy belt can really help to support the belly too. Financially can you afford to leave your job? That’s the main consideration imo
Roshni Mahtani