Here are the most common phrases our pregnant readers never want to hear again. It’s no surprise that over 80 percent of pregnant women have experienced friends (or strangers!) touching their bellies without permission. That’s definitely not okay. Even worse are the thoughtless comments people make. They often mean well, but they seem to forget what it’s like to be carrying a human being. Our pregnant readers shared some phrases that make them cringe. Do any of these sound familiar? Don’t worry—we’ve included some tips on how to respond.
Faux Pas #1: “Hello in There!” (As They Caress Your Belly)
We understand—the belly rub is hard to resist. (It’s just so big and beautiful!) But no one should be touching you without asking first. It’s unsettling and weird, but people often forget that your bump is still part of your body.
What to say or do in response: As the hand moves in, cover your belly and jokingly say, “The little one’s bossy already, and this baby likes personal space.”
Faux Pas #2: “I Was in Labor for 36 Hours and Tore Like You Wouldn’t Believe!»
Hearing someone’s horror birth story isn’t what you want when you’re mentally preparing for your own childbirth. It’s natural for others to share their experiences, thinking it might be helpful. But just because they were in labor for 36 hours doesn’t mean you want to hear all the gory details (or that the same will happen to you).
What to say or do in response: You might find some useful advice in these stories, but if it gets too graphic, say in a mock grave voice, “You’ve got to stop, I think my morning sickness is coming back.”
Faux Pas #3: “Wow, You’re Huge! Are You Having Twins?”
Pregnant or not, no one likes to be reminded of their weight gain. Whether you’re expecting multiples or not, everyone should keep their weight-related comments to themselves.
What to say or do in response: Proudly rub your tummy and say, “Nope, not twins. I’m just carrying the next linebacker for the New York Giants.”
Faux Pas #4: “Oh, I Knew a (Insert Baby Name).
He Was a Weirdo.” People love hearing about baby names and can’t help but associate a name with someone they knew, whether it was a high school geek or a horrid ex-boyfriend. But choosing a baby name is challenging enough without people chiming in with their associations.
What to say or do in response: If only you could say who that person reminds you of, right? Instead, offer some quick insight into why you chose the name (“actually, we’re naming the baby after my grandfather”).
Faux Pas #5: “Oh Come On, One Drink Won’t Hurt.”
No one likes being pressured, and you’ll get tired of explaining you’re pregnant and not drinking (or that you’re “not feeling well” if you’re still keeping the news a secret).
What to say or do in response:
Don’t hesitate to push back—this is not a time for peer pressure. Or save yourself the hassle by ordering a soda water with lemon—it’ll look just like a cocktail.