What To Do When Your Friend Gets Pregnant

Step 1: When they tell you

Hopefully your friend will be delighted when they find out they are pregnant. If so, then you can share in their excitement. If the pregnancy has come as a surprise, then ask them how they feel about it and don't jump to conclusions. If they need to talk things through, reserve your own judgment and take time to listen to them.

Step 2: Things will change

As your friend gets used to the idea of becoming a mum, your relationship will need to adjust slightly. Her mind will be full of thoughts about the baby, and it will increasingly become her favourite topic of conversation. This is important because it allows her to prepare for impending motherhood, so let her talk. As her pregnancy progresses, she won't be able to live the social life she did before, so don't make her feel left out by waxing lyrical about your latest exciting night out – which she couldn't come to again.

Step 3: Shopping for maternity clothes

Just because your friend is pregnant doesn't mean you have to stop doing what you did before – you just might have to make some adjustments. Instead of shopping trips for the latest Gucci must-have, take your friend out to buy some pretty maternity clothes. Be complimentary: as she begins to change shape she will need friends like you to remind her that she is still fun to be with.

Step 4: Planning a night out (or in)

When you plan a night out, try to consider the needs of your pregnant friend. Avoid smoky bars and busy clubs. Opt instead for something like a quiet, smoke-free restaurant. If you can, book a taxi so that she doesn't have to stand on public transport.

Step 5: Be prepared for mood swings

As the hormones kick in your friend may experience some dramatic mood swings. This is all part of her body's preparation for motherhood, so have some patience.


With a little give and take your friend's pregnancy can be the beginning of an exciting time for both of you.

Step 6: Anxiety

Particularly for first-time mums, pregnancy can be a frightening journey into the unknown. Try to help her relax by taking her out for lunch or a massage.

Step 7: Weepiness

She might not know why she's crying, but it's probably nothing that you've done. Encourage her to let it all out, and be on hand with tissues and chocolate.

Step 8: Tetchiness

A combination of an aching body and fiery hormones may make your friend prone to sharp outbursts. Relax and don't shout back. This will only make her more uptight. When she's calmed down encourage her to take a nap or do some gentle exercise.

Step 9: Elation

As endorphins kick in to help her cope with the stress of pregnancy, she will feel bursting with mum-to-be joy. Bear with her gushing, and celebrate with her. After all – you're going to be an aunty.