There are some things you just don't say. Whether you're talking to a friend, a family member, or a stranger, there are certain sentences that should just never be said out loud.
So why are people constantly putting their feet in their mouths, especially when it comes to talking to pregnant women?
There may not be a course called "Pregnancy Etiquette," but there really should be. People are constantly saying the craziest things. And the worst part? They probably don't even know they're saying anything wrong!
Scroll through below for a look at the sentences no one should ever utter to a pregnant individual. Whether you've ever been pregnant or you've simply been around someone who is, it's likely that you've heard a number of these before.
Which ones did we miss? Let us know in the comments. And make sure to SHARE with friends and family so more people can get on the pregnancy etiquette train!
Thumbnail source: Flickr
1. "Are you sure it's not twins?"
This has got to be one of the most insulting things you can possibly say. Translation: "You look huge!" This is definitely not how to make a mother-to-be feel good about herself.
2. "You shouldn't eat that."
Everyone has an opinion about what pregnant women should or shouldn't eat or drink. "Don't drink coffee." "Don't eat eggs." Do this mother-to-be a favor, and let her make decisions for herself. She is an adult who is totally capable of doing her own research about safe foods and drinks!
3. "Was it an accident?"
Whoa, whoa, whoa. This question is way out of bounds. First of all, it's none of your business. And second of all, it's none of your business. Instead, maybe try a more supportive statement like, "I'm so happy for you!"
4. "You're going to breastfeed, right?"
Again, let this mom-to-be make her own decisions. Since there are pros and cons to both choices, let's leave this very personal choice up to her.
5. "Are you sure you should be having another baby?"
The subtext on this one is really unflattering: "Aren't you too old for this?" or even "Are you sure you can handle this?" Isn't there something nicer and more supportive you can say instead?
6. "Enjoy your freedom while you can!"
Let's try to keep things positive, rather than creating a sense of impending doom. There are going to be so many joyful moments once the baby arrives, so why not focus on those?
7. "Do you know who the father is?"
This one should be self-explanatory. But in case it's not, never ever ever ever ask someone this.
8. "How fast do you think you'll lose the baby weight?"
Let's just avoid mentions of weight and size altogether. This mom-to-be has enough going on and doesn't need body shaming on top of it.
9. "You look tired."
She's about to create life. She's allowed to look tired. Let's not rub it in her face.
10. "I was in labor forever."
While we're at it, let's avoid all pregnancy or labor horror stories. Can't we just let her believe it's going to be a quick, painless, enjoyable experience for a little bit longer?
11. "Is this the hormones talking?"
You can say this. But then you shouldn't be surprised by the subsequent slap.
12. "Can I touch your belly?"
If a stranger walked up to you and asked to touch one of your body parts, would you let them?
13. "Say goodbye to romance."
Everyone's relationship is different. So try not to presume to know what will happen in someone else's.
If you've ever been around a mother-to-be, or have been one yourself, you have undoubtedly heard quite a few of these before. But maybe it's not too late to spread proper pregnancy etiquette around, to spare other pregnant women from having to respond to these ridiculous statements!
What other crazy things have you heard said to a mom-to-be? Let us know in the comments and please SHARE these no-nos with friends and family!
