We have now reached the six month mark of Helen's pregnancy, longer than some of our friends' relationships (Jonas.) Norby is kicking up a storm on a daily basis, growing bigger and according to the experts is developing her central nervous system. As for Helen, there is no hiding the fact she is pregnant, which opens her up to lots of peoples' hands on her Buddha-esque belly.
So far it hasn't really happened that much, but I imagine it will soon, especially since we're seeing lots of family and friends in the coming weeks. I'm not the one with the belly, but think it would be partly fun if people asked to touch since you (and the baby) are the center of attention, but also partly annoying since you might not want people putting their hands on your stomach, especially if you're not feeling well, or they didn't Purel first.
What's the etiquette when it comes to pregnant belly touching? Do mommies-to-be feel like they need to 'take one for the team' because this is a joyful experience to be shared with everyone, or is the reaction more like, 'please don't touch me?'
I suppose one way to get people to not touch a pregnant woman's belly is have what happened to our friends J&J, who are also pregnant: J the husband was talking to his son in his wife's belly, and had his face right up to her stomach when the boy kicked him in the face!
Just wait until people start touching your infant/newborn. Especially the eldery (who are often with the sickness). They just love to touch baby chubby cheeks and hands. I've been carrying around disinfectant wipes for hands/face for almost 5 yrs now due to this. I'm too nice to say anything to them :D
ReplyDeleteOh, to your question; just expect to be man-handled by friends, family, strangers, etc. I think people are infatuated with ball-like shapes? Big ones a that.
ReplyDeleteYeah, as a parent you want to protect your kids, but you probably don't want to appear to be overly protective, or mean. Tough balance.
ReplyDeleteAgreed. Everyone loves balls. :)