Most mums will remember an awkward encounter with someone who just doesn’t quite get pregnancy.
Whether it’s the well-meaning acquaintance who insists “you don’t look pregnant”, or the uncle whose eyes bulge as he asks if you’re carrying twins – it’s a fact that some people need to think a little bit more before they speak.
But one mum-to-be’s experience proves there are people who are misguided, and others are just plain rude. The woman, who is 25 weeks pregnant, logged on to parenting forum Mumsnet to share her encounter with a colleague who was a little of both.
Listen: When to tell the boss you’re pregnant and what your rights are. (Post continues after audio.)
The woman, username Crapuccino, said the conversation was borne out of “meaningless chit-chat” with a colleague by the photocopier.
Colleague: “How’s everything?”
Me: “Really good! I’ve been invited to [extremely prestigious thing] next week so I’m really nervous. You?”
Colleague: “Erm… you’re going to go?”
Me: “Sure, why?”
Colleague: “Well… won’t it look… a bit…”
Me: …?
Colleague: “Well you’re pregnant. Won’t it look a bit unprofessional?”
Me: “Er, yeah, anyway, I think my copying is done.” Scarper, wondering wtf just happened.
