The Top 5 Reasons Why Being Pregnant Can Be Super Awkward

Let me start by saying I am SO thankful to be pregnant with my second child. I’m in my 3rd trimester of what has been a very healthy and mostly uneventful pregnancy. Every time I get to see my baby boy’s sonogram picture or hear his heartbeat, I feel overwhelmed with joy, relief, and appreciation, especially because I’ve had friends and family who have suffered through struggles and loss. Being able to get pregnant and have a child is truly a blessing. But that being said, I don’t love BEING pregnant.
Where did my feet go??

I don’t even really understand people who say they love it. Are they serious? It is uncomfortable and exhausting, it messes with your body and your mental state, and you can’t have wine. I also can’t help but feel that when I am pregnant, it is one of the more awkward times in my life.. and here are my top 5 reasons why.

#5 — Personal space issues. I have had many people touch my stomach. Now, it really doesn’t bother me if it’s a close friend or family member, as I am a pretty affectionate and touchy feely person. But when it’s someone I barely know, or someone that I don’t want doing it, it can be awkward. One of my male students (I teach high school) asked me the other day if he could touch my belly. I had to explain to him that although I appreciated him asking my permission, the answer is no because my belly is, in fact, a part of my body, and it’s not a good idea. He understood, but still, that was awkward.

#4 — Stranger danger. It now takes me twice as long to get out of any supermarket, store, etc. because at least one random person wants to have a conversation with me about pregnancy or children. I definitely understand the gesture and appreciate friendliness, and sometimes it’s not that bad; strangers will ask when I’m due, or if I’m having a boy or a girl, so sometimes it’s short and sweet. But more often than not, it’s a full conversation that I don’t know how to get out of without being rude. It can be slightly exhausting trying to fake interest to a complete stranger who just recently had a friend or daughter who was also pregnant and wants to share this story with you as you are trying to get in and out of Publix because you most likely have to pee. These conversations with strangers are awkward.

#3 — Bodily function drama. Speaking of peeing, I just sneezed. So I may have also peed. This is my second pregnancy, and I did not have this issue with my first although I know many others have. But I guess things have kind of shifted around since last time and my body isn’t quite the same (duh). So when I cough or sneeze and I have that deer-in-headlights look on my face, it’s probably because I’m wondering if I need to go home from work and change my pants. The struggle is real. And peeing your pants as an adult is awkward. I’ve also picked up a new, really cute habit called snoring like a hibernating bear. My husband thinks it’s so sexy.. sike. Just add that to the bodily functions awkwardness list.

#2 — Weight watchers. Yes, I realize I am getting bigger. I hear this at least ten times a day, and I wish I was exaggerating for literary affect right now. I have to keep reminding myself that people are saying it in an excited way, as in, they are excited to see my belly growing because it means the baby will be here soon. But the reality is, I just don’t know how to respond to so many weight comments. A few of my go-to’s are, “Yep, I just keep getting pregnant-er”, and, “Trust me, I know, I see me naked”. But no matter how hilarious, sarcastic, or simply accepting I try to be, I can’t help but feel awkward when responding to the size comments.

And lastly, my #1 top reason for feeling super awkward during pregnancy is….

Everyone knows we “did it”!
Am I the only woman out there who felt really awkward telling her parents and family (especially dad and grandpa) that I got knocked up?? I’ve been married for six years so I’m sure everyone assumed things were happening, but now the jig is up for real. We made a baby. Actually, we made two babies. And it just got awkward, again.

Have you experienced any pregnant awkward moments? Share yours with us in the comments section!