Pregnancy is a beautiful experience that can be very exciting for women. However, pregnancy can also bring a lot of changes to a woman’s body, some of which can be uncomfortable or even painful.

As a result, it’s important to be mindful of what we say to pregnant women about their bodies. Here are ten things you shouldn’t say to pregnant women about their bodies:.

1. “You’re getting so big!”

Although the intention might be to show excitement about the pregnancy, this statement can be hurtful to pregnant women. It implies that they are gaining too much weight and may make them self-conscious about their changing bodies.

Instead, focus on positive comments, like “you look beautiful” or “you’re glowing”.

2. “Wow, you’re still pregnant?”

As the due date approaches, pregnant women are often anxious and nervous about when they will go into labor. This comment can add stress and anxiety to the expectant mother.

Instead, offer words of encouragement, like “you’re doing great” and “just a little bit longer now”.

3. “You’re going to have a big baby.”

This statement can make pregnant women feel anxious and scared about labor and delivery. It also implies that they are not doing something right during pregnancy that could harm their baby’s health.

Instead, reassure them that all babies come in different sizes and that their baby will be just the right size for them.

4. “Are you sure you’re not having twins?”

This statement can make pregnant women feel vulnerable and self-conscious about their bodies. It can also be hurtful, especially if the woman has already expressed concerns about her weight or body image.

As an alternative, acknowledge the woman’s concerns and tell her how amazing she looks during pregnancy.

5. “You’re acting crazy/hormonal.”

Although pregnancy hormones can cause women to feel emotional and moody, labeling them as crazy or hormonal disregards their feelings and experiences. Instead, validate what the woman is feeling and offer support and empathy.

6. “You shouldn’t be eating that.”

While it’s important for pregnant women to have a healthy diet during pregnancy, shaming them for their food choices can be hurtful and cause stress.

Instead, offer support and resources for a healthy pregnancy rather than criticism and judgement.

7. “Get as much sleep as you can now, because you won’t get any when the baby comes.”

This statement can be dismissive of the exhaustion and physical challenges that come with pregnancy. It also implies that new mothers should expect to be sleep-deprived, which can be discouraging.

Instead, ask the expecting mother how she is feeling and offer help or resources if needed.

8. “Your body will never be the same again.”

Although pregnancy can bring physical changes to a woman’s body, saying that it will never be the same can make pregnant women feel hopeless and unhappy about their postpartum bodies.

Instead, encourage and support the woman, remind her that every pregnancy is different and that her body is amazing for bringing life into the world.

9. “You look tired.”

This statement can be hurtful and make pregnant women feel self-conscious about their appearance. Instead of commenting on their appearance, offer support and resources to help alleviate their tiredness and stress.

10. “What’s your birth plan?”

While it’s important to plan for labor and delivery, asking about a woman’s birth plan can be overwhelming and cause unnecessary stress.

Instead, offer information and support for labor and delivery, but let the woman know that it’s okay to change her plan if things don’t go as planned.