Pregnancy announcements and gender reveals seem to pop up on our social feeds quite regularly. So when, if at all, should you announce yours? (And just as importantly, who is going to help you coordinate the reveal and snap some flashy photographs?)
When to reveal your pregnancy to others
Informing others of your pregnancy is a personal decision. There is no ‘wrong time’ for the big reveal. However, most people wait up to 12 weeks, or the start of the second trimester, to announce a pregnancy when there is less risk of having a miscarriage.
The 12-week mark
Studies have shown that an estimated 10-25% of all clinically-recognized pregnancies will end in miscarriage—with 80% of those happening within the first trimester due to factors including:
- Chromosomal abnormalities, or random genetic problems in the developing baby
- Medical conditions including thyroid disease, uncontrolled diabetes, infections or problems with the uterus or cervix
- Lifestyle habits including smoking, heavy drinking and malnutrition
- Age (women over the age of 35 are at a higher risk)
- Weight
While complications can still happen after the first trimester, experts say it's less frequent.
‘Early bird’ pregnancy announcements
Some women decide not to wait until the 12-week Mark and decide to announce a pregnancy earlier for a variety of reasons, including:
- Excitement!
- Showing classic ‘signs’ such as morning sickness or exhaustion
- A need to avoid any exposures or dangers at work (such as chemicals)
- Complications in the pregnancy and wanting to inform loved ones of the risks
Why wait?
According to experts at Hackensack Meridian Health, women may want to hold off on announcing the big news for a range of reasons, including:
- Wanting to know the baby’s health via ultrasound
- Finally starting to ‘show’ that baby bump
- Wanting to avoid unsolicited advice
A pregnancy can be both exciting and frightening, so the decision is ultimately up to what works best for the family.
Next Steps & Resources:
- Make an appointment online with a physician near you, or call 800-822-8905.
- Learn more about women’s health at Hackensack Meridian Health.
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