This is the phrase you should *never* say to new mothers

Everyone who is or has been a new parent has probably heard at least one of these comments, not only from people of an older generation, but also from peers who perhaps don't realize how inappropriate, embarrassing, or even offensive they can sound.

If you don't have children (yet), it's probably best to be a little more careful when talking about such topics. Some questions or comments, even when made without malicious intent, can put the other person in an awkward position.

One of them is:

"Was the pregnancy planned?"

Family planning is a completely personal matter and not every couple or expectant mother wants to share intimate details about it.

But the list doesn't end there. Here are some other phrases that new parents don't like at all:

"Seriously, you have a child? It doesn't even look like it!"

Whether as a comment on physical appearance, post-pregnancy weight, or the way you dress, this sentence often carries outdated stereotypes and sexist expectations about how a mother "should" look.

"I wouldn't have children at this age."

The age to become a parent is a deeply personal decision. There is no “right” or “wrong” age.

"I don't have children, but I know very well how they grow up..."

Even if we have experience, how we raise a child is an individual choice. Unsolicited advice is often perceived as criticism.

"When I have children, I will never do this..."

Parenting is much more complex than it seems in theory. Every family faces different realities.

"Fortunately, I didn't have children."

Such a comment, even if expressed as a personal opinion, can sound dismissive of the choices of others.

“Isn't he walking/talking yet? How many months old is he?”
Every child's development is unique. Such questions can affect parents who are already worried or facing difficulties.

"When are you going to have the second one? When is the baptism/wedding?"

Family planning is not a public issue and social pressure helps no one.

"One child is not enough."

There is no "right number" of children. Each family decides according to its own possibilities and desires.

"Are you his nanny/sister/grandmother?"

Such an assumption can be embarrassing, especially when it is related to age or appearance.

At the end of the day, a little empathy makes all the difference. Parenting is a beautiful, yet challenging, journey. Words carry weight, so sometimes the best thing we can do is listen, not judge.