10 things you should never say to a pregnant woman

Women are at their most vulnerable when they’re pregnant. Ironically, it also happens to be the exact same time that people begin to treat them as walking, emotionless incubators.

Friends and family think it’s perfectly fine to say things like, “Wow! You’ve gotten so big!” and complete strangers readily invade a fragile woman’s personal space to rub her pregnant belly.

To avoid the fatal mistake of offending, upsetting or enraging a mum-to-be, read through our list of 10 things you should never, ever say.

1. You’re massive

It is never, ever ok to say this to a woman (pregnant or not).

2. You’re tiny

While this may seem like a compliment, it can actually cause a mum-to-be even more stress. They’re already worrying about every little thing that could happen, so you’re just confirming their fears that they’ve done it all wrong and now their baby is too tiny. Hormones, remember? It’s better to just steer clear of mentioning weight or size in any context.

3. Were you trying for long?

Translation: so how much sex did you have and how impressive are your reproductive organs exactly? This question is just too personal, no matter how close you may think you are to the couple.

4. Was it planned?

Translation: was your baby a mistake?

5. Who’s the dad?

Do we even need to comment on this?

6. Childbirth is unbearable.

Wow, really? I’m sure she had no idea that birthing a human child would cause discomfort and is simply thrilled that you pointed it out. Repeatedly.

7. Still in there?

You’re just asking for trouble if you comment on the fact that the mum has yet to give birth, especially if she’s two weeks overdue.

8. Are you sure it’s mine?

Avoid this one at all costs, even if you are only joking.

9. Are you sure there aren’t two in there?

Again with the weight related comments.

10. Are you excited?
Unless you genuinely care and are willing to offer a shoulder to cry on if the answer is something other than yes – don’t ask.