MarieClaire
  • News
  • Fashion
  • Beauty
  • Lifestyle
  • Career
  • Bridal
  • Gifts
  • The Edit
  • Discount Codes
MarieClaire
  • News
  • Fashion
  • Beauty
  • Lifestyle
  • Career
  • Bridal
  • Gifts
  • The Edit
  • Discount Codes
Subscribe
  1. Home
  2. Lifestyle

What NOT To Say When Somebody Is Expecting

Unless invited, do not stroke their baby bump - by Milly Haddrick
  • 25 Oct 2018
What NOT To Say When Somebody Is Expecting

When you’re pregnant, normal human rules surrounding personal space and privacy just don’t seem to apply. As soon as people notice your baby bump private questions about your weight and career choices all of a sudden become fair game to talk about.

While we all know that those insensitive comments you get asked during pregnancy are coming from a good place, it’s best to know what questions are just off limits to ask a pregnant woman.

Here is what NOT to say to someone who’s expecting:

“Was it planned?”

Avoid. No one wants to say “Actually no, the condom broke”. The mumma-to-be is happy and excited to share the news with you, you don’t need to know if it was a planned pregnancy.

“You’re so big, you look ready to pop!”

The same rule applies to pregnant women as it does to non-pregnant women, do not comment on how big someone looks. She’s probably very uncomfortable at the moment and doesn’t need you reminding her of that fact.

Rude Tina Fey GIF - Find & Share on GIPHY

“Have you picked a name yet?”

This one may seem relatively non-invasive and harmless but choosing a baby’s name is a very big deal, and usually, the mother whether single or in a couple, doesn't want to share the name until the baby is born. Don’t put her under pressure by asking and just wait until she announces the name herself.

“Can I touch your belly?”

This one goes out to all the random people who see a pregnant woman and are overcome with the urge to touch her belly: just don’t. Being touched by someone you barely know is as uncomfortable pregnant as it is when you’re not pregnant. Wait for the invitation and definitely don’t ask.  

Dont Touch Me Chelsea Peretti GIF - Find & Share on GIPHY

“You’re having twins? So they’re IVF I presume?

Everybody’s pregnancy journey is different and some women struggle with fertility. This can be a painful thing to talk about it, don’t overshadow her joy by bringing up something that might be a delicate and sensitive topic of conversation.

When you see a pregnant woman it's best to stick with: “Congratulations!” “How are you feeling?” and “You look great!” and we promise you won’t offend anybody.

  • Lifestyle
  • Relationship advice
  • Parenting
  • Celebrity Babies
Milly Haddrick
Milly Haddrick
Milly is a freelance journalist who devours all news, from the latest in Australian politics to Meghan and Harry's cutest couple moments. Milly is a devout tea enthusiast who's a firm believer in quality downtime, her weekends are usually spent exploring a new cafe with a nice cuppa and the crossword.

Subscribe to Marie Claire-+ save!

Subscribe to marie claire

Subscribe Now
Subscribe to Marie Claire

Subscribe to Marie Claire-+ save!

Subscribe to marie claire

Subscribe Now
Subscribe to Marie Claire

Recommended to you

MAFS' Aleks and Ivan exchange wedding vows
Watch 4:43

MAFS' Aleks and Ivan exchange wedding vows

{headline}

{headline}

9 Chic Maternity Outfits That'll Bring Comfort And Style To Your Wardrobe, And Your Bump

9 Chic Maternity Outfits That'll Bring Comfort And Style To Your Wardrobe, And Your Bump

Everything You Need To Know About Pregnancy Skin Care According To A Doctor

Everything You Need To Know About Pregnancy Skin Care According To A Doctor

Australian Woman Forced To Give Birth Alone In Jail Cell

Australian Woman Forced To Give Birth Alone In Jail Cell

Expectant Mum Cancels Baby Shower After Family Teases Son's Name

Expectant Mum Cancels Baby Shower After Family Teases Son's Name

{headline}

{headline}

Rachel McAdams Opens Up About Motherhood For The First Time

Rachel McAdams Opens Up About Motherhood For The First Time

A Pregnant Amy Schumer Posts Video Of Herself Vomiting Before Comedy Show

A Pregnant Amy Schumer Posts Video Of Herself Vomiting Before Comedy Show

Pregnant Amy Schumer Is Rushed To Hospital

Pregnant Amy Schumer Is Rushed To Hospital

{headline}

{headline}

The #TalkAboutTrying Hashtag Is Helping Women Open Up About Fertility Struggles

The #TalkAboutTrying Hashtag Is Helping Women Open Up About Fertility Struggles

Mandy Moore Reveals Why She Can't Receive An Epidural For Her Second Birth

Mandy Moore Reveals Why She Can't Receive An Epidural For Her Second Birth

Pippa Middleton Has Revealed The Name Of Her Daughter And It's Fitting For A Royal

Pippa Middleton Has Revealed The Name Of Her Daughter And It's Fitting For A Royal

Mandy Moore Reveals She Will Soon Be A Mother To Two Boys

Mandy Moore Reveals She Will Soon Be A Mother To Two Boys

'Doctors Told My Mum She Was Experiencing Pregnancy Symptoms. It Was Ovarian Cancer'

'Doctors Told My Mum She Was Experiencing Pregnancy Symptoms. It Was Ovarian Cancer'

Jennifer Lawrence Has Welcomed Her First Child With Her Husband, Cooke Maroney

Jennifer Lawrence Has Welcomed Her First Child With Her Husband, Cooke Maroney

In Hindsight, Priyanka Actually Dropped A Few Hints That She And Nick Were Expecting

In Hindsight, Priyanka Actually Dropped A Few Hints That She And Nick Were Expecting

MarieClaire
  • About Us
  • Discount Codes
  • Contact Us
  • Terms and Conditions
  • Privacy Policy
MarieClaire Magazine Subscribe
  • About Us
  • Discount Codes
  • Contact Us
  • Terms and Conditions
  • Privacy Policy

Brands

  • Beauty Crew
  • Home Beautiful
  • Elle
  • Who

Our Network

  • Better Homes and Gardens
  • BHG Shop
  • beautyheaven
  • New Idea food
  • New Idea
  • Girlfriend
  • That’s Life
  • Practical Parenting
  • All Recipes
  • Perth Now
  • The West Australian
  • 7Plus
  • 7mate
  • 7NEWS
  • 7Sport
  • Sunrise
  • Starts at 60
  • Hard to Find
© 2022 Are Media PTY LTD
All products are independently selected, tested or recommended by our team of experts.If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.
Get more from Marie Claire

Magazine Subscription Offer

Subscribe to Marie Claire-+ save!

Shop This Offer
Subscribe to Marie Claire