Pregnancy Etiquette

he impending birth of a baby can be a very exciting time, but it’s not always easy, nor comfortable for the mother-to-be. We’ve listed some simple and thoughtful ideas on how to handle the expectant with care.

DON'T SPILL THE BEANS
Finding out they’re pregnant is thrilling news, but leave it up to the parents-to-be to share it with family and friends. Unless the expectant parents ask for your help, let them have the joy of spreading the news.

DON'T COMMENT ON HER SIZE
Remember the old saying, “If you don’t have anything nice to say…” Even if you don’t think you’re being hurtful, pregnant women never want to hear comments such as, “You’re huge!” or “Wow! It looks like you’re going to have twins.” To be safe, just tell her how beautiful she looks. Trust us, it’s all she wants to hear.

DON'T TOUCH THE BELLY
Onto a touchy subject: Some women might not mind the admiration and attention; for others, it will rub them the wrong way. The best advice is to ask her if it’s okay before you’re "hands on."

DON'T OFFER UNSOLICITED ADVICE
This can be questionable, but the answer is simple: If it’s unsolicited, keep it to yourself. If or when she asks for your opinion, feel free to let it out. If not, it’s wise to hold on tight to your knowledge.

DON'T BE THE FOOD POLICE
Fortunately these days, most women have a hunger for knowledge that keeps them on top of what they should, or shouldn’t, be eating while pregnant. Respecting their decisions (even if you disagree) is much more palatable.

ACT LIKE YOU LIKE THE NAME (EVEN IF YOU DON'T)
Unless you want your name to go down in history as the person who hated their child’s, it’s best to keep your opinions to yourself.

RESPECT THEIR BATHROOM LINE PRIVILEGES

Without getting too detailed, the bladder of a pregnant woman isn’t always a forgiving one. It’s always a nice gesture to allow the soon-to-be-mama to “go” ahead of you.

OFFER YOUR SEAT
The last seat on the bus, subway, or in the waiting room is coveted and fought for like gold; but allowing an expectant mother the chance to get off her swollen feet is priceless.

And, remember, as she gets bigger, even the tiniest of gestures are huge.