How to Keep Strangers From Touching Your Tummy When Pregnant

Just like babies, the bellies of pregnant women tend to attract a lot of unsolicited comments and touches.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Say no when someone makes the reach. Give them a smile and say you're kind of shy, if you want to soften the blow.

2. Reach out for their belly as they reach for yours. Explain you're into equal exchange.

3. Squeal or squeak when they touch you - they won't do it again. Try laughing as if you're remarkably ticklish or, for added effect, add a donkey-like hee-haw.

4. Step back if they just reach out for you. Tell 'em you're a private kind of gal. Consider mentioning the very contagious skin rash that you and most other pregnant women have.

5. Go with the flow and let them have a feel if you want to; consider it an educational or community project.

Tips & Warnings

• Remember that most people are well-intentioned and are just drawn to the excitement of the new life your pregnant belly holds.

[sugarfoots1968]

on 12/22/2007 I wished I had met you when I were having children, but I like the advise and I will share with all my younger friends.

[jachromatic]

on 12/8/2007 Chantelletibbs, very funny article but it does bring the point across.

[chantelletibbs]

on 12/5/2007 Wow, you'd think people would ask first, I guess not. But I do have big hair and people touch it without asking to "feel how soft it is." I take it less personally though cuz it's on my head. To reach out and touch someone's tummy without asking...weird. I just wouldn't do that.

[Allandra]

on 7/21/2007 It's funny when I read this. I refer to it as My Buddha Touch Time. It's unavoidable. There's something about a big belly that just draws people to you. As for me, I don't really mind. If they want to touch my belly, it's fine with me. I enjoy the attention and it's nice.... I wouldn't sweat the small stuff. Enjoy the attention while you can because believe me, as soon as your little bundle of joy is born, you're the last person to get any attention! :)

on 8/8/2006 When pregnant with triplets, I endured several long months of, "You're getting huge, aren't you!" I have since come up with a few tips:
1.) I bought a T-shirt that had said, "Hands Off!" on the stomach. One woman came up to me and said, "My, isn't that a cute shirt!" More tummy-rubbing.
2.) The golden rule, adjusting for pregnancy: "Treat other people's stomachs the way you want yours to be treated."
3.) Walk with your hands over your stomach. That way it makes it harder for others to touch you.