Maternity leave/Shared parental leave

I'd say split it lah, because honestly the sickness and milestones do pile up especially in the first two years. My boy had his rotavirus jab schedule, then fell sick right before his 12-month check, and I was really glad I had some leave left instead of scrambling to find coverage. If you take it all at once upfront, you might find yourself back at work during the trickier months when he needs you for appointments or just isn't settling well. Maybe take 3-4 months initially so you're properly recovered and settled with the baby, then keep the rest for when you actually need it - that way you're not burnt out trying to use it all while juggling a newborn either.