Monday, January 16, 2012

Things you should NEVER say to a pregnant woman

1. So you're due any day now, right?
2. When I respond with, "well I have 6 1/2 weeks or so left," you DEFINITELY should not widen your eyes and say OHHHhhhh.
3. Was it planned?
4. Are you having twins?
5. Make predictions about the gender based on the woman's size/shape... No No. It doesn't always work like that and you will probably say something that won't go over well.
6. Make comments about the fact that the woman chooses to birth a certain way. You don't know all of the details of why she came to the decision that she wants a drug free birth or a cesearean and quite frankly, it's not your business.
7. You look bigger today.
8. You're really packing on the weight with this one, huh?
9. Do you exercise? (Why is this your business?)
10. Ask her the same question or questions every time you see her? I guarantee she's already answered the "when are you due?" and " are you having a boy or girl" question 9 million times. Please write it down, look it up on facebook, or ask a mutual friend. 1-2 times asking is probably okay, but it's not necessary every time or every other time you see them.
11. Don't judge or give your input about a decision they've made unless they ask.

I know there are many more, but these are some of the ones that have gotten under my skin lately.

So...how can you have a conversation or be nice or cordial to a woman who is pregnant?

1. Pretend that they aren't pregnant. They are still the same person with the same basic needs they have always had... Treat them as such. Ask them how they are doing, if they have any plans for the weekend,...
2. Compliment them profusely. Tell them they look radiant and beautiful, that they don't look like they've gained a lot of weight. That you hope you look that good when you're pregnant.