Deciding when to tell people you’re pregnant can feel like a big decision. Whether you’re bursting to share the news or feeling more cautious, there’s no right or wrong time - it’s entirely up to you.
From partners and family to friends and employers, here’s what to consider when deciding the best time to share your pregnancy.
Is There a “Right” Time to Tell People I’m Pregnant?
There’s no rulebook. But for many people, the 12-week mark is a common milestone. By this time, your pregnancy will typically be confirmed by your midwife and you’ll likely have had your first ultrasound scan - the dating or “booking” scan. This is when you’ll also have a more accurate due date and reassurance that things are progressing well.
However, some people choose to share earlier, especially with close family or friends, while others wait longer - sometimes into the second trimester or beyond. The key is choosing what feels right for you.
Reasons People Wait Until 12 Weeks
Many expectant parents choose to wait until the end of the first trimester before announcing their pregnancy more widely. Here’s why:
- The risk of miscarriage reduces after the first 12 weeks.
- You may want to wait until your first scan confirms a viable pregnancy.
- It gives you time to process the news privately.
- You may not be ready to deal with questions or advice from others just yet.
This approach allows you to share from a place of greater confidence and emotional readiness.
Reasons to Tell People Sooner
There are also plenty of valid reasons why people share earlier:
- You want the support of close friends or family if you’re feeling unwell, tired, or anxious.
- You’ve had fertility challenges, and your close network is already involved in the journey.
- You need to make adjustments at work (e.g., avoiding heavy lifting, exposure to chemicals, or long shifts).
- You simply want to celebrate your news and aren’t worried about what comes next.
Remember: if something were to go wrong, having a trusted support network already in place can be a source of strength.
Telling Your Partner
If your partner doesn’t already know, they’ll likely be the first person you tell. Whether the pregnancy was planned or a surprise, it’s helpful to be open about how you’re feeling and what support you might need in the coming weeks.
Telling Close Family and Friends
Telling your parents, siblings, or best friend is often an exciting moment. You might want to:
- Tell them in person or with a special keepsake.
- Wait until after your first scan.
- Ask them to keep the news private until you're ready to share more widely.
Choose the moment and setting that feels comfortable to you.
Telling Your Employer
In the UK, you’re not legally required to tell your employer you’re pregnant until 15 weeks before your baby’s due date. But many people choose to tell work earlier - often after the 12-week scan - so they can:
- Access paid time off for antenatal appointments.
- Make workplace adjustments to support your health and safety.
- Get emotional or logistical support from managers and colleagues.
If your job involves physical work, long shifts, or potentially harmful exposures, telling your employer earlier could be important for both you and your baby’s wellbeing.
More on your rights at work: NHS pregnancy and work advice.
Telling Children (if you already have them)
If you have older children, deciding when to share your pregnancy with them is another personal choice. Many parents wait until after the first scan, while others involve their children earlier to help them feel included.
Tips for telling your kids:
- Keep it age-appropriate.
- Reassure them they’ll still be loved and cared for.
- Let them ask questions in their own time.
- Involve them in preparations, like choosing baby clothes or reading books about new siblings.
When Should I Keep It Private?
Some people choose to wait well beyond 12 weeks to share their news - especially if:
- They’ve experienced previous loss or fertility challenges.
- They prefer a more private pregnancy.
- They want to wait until they start showing physically.
- They’re navigating complex circumstances (e.g. health issues, relationship changes).
This is your journey, and how you share it is entirely your call.
Midwife’s Top Tips
- Tell your employer when you’re ready - but earlier notice helps protect your rights and access to care.
- Share with people you trust first - especially if you’re feeling anxious or unwell.
- Wait until after your scan if you want added reassurance.
- Your pregnancy, your pace - don’t feel pressured by traditions or social media.
- It’s okay to change your mind - you can share your news slowly or all at once.
When to tell people you’re pregnant is deeply personal and there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Whether you spill the beans at five weeks or wait until you’re halfway through, the right time is when you feel emotionally ready, safe, and supported.
You deserve to share your news in a way that feels joyful, empowering, and true to your journey. However you choose to tell, it’s a special moment - one that marks the start of something extraordinary.
