When is the right time to tell your loved ones?

Reviewed by: Dr. Preet Pal SB

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3 min read

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Apr 29, 2025

You’re now 10 weeks into your pregnancy. A tiny heart is beating inside you, limbs are forming, and hormones are hard at work. But from the outside, nothing may show yet. You might still be keeping the news to yourself, thinking about when and how to share it.

Telling loved ones, you’re pregnant is a personal decision. There is no perfect date or rule that fits everyone. However, understanding what to consider can help you decide when the time feels right for you.

Why Many People Wait Until the End of the First Trimester

One common reason women hold off on announcing their pregnancy early is risk. The chance of miscarriage is highest in the first trimester. By the end of week 12, that risk drops significantly. For many, this is the milestone that brings enough reassurance to begin sharing the news more widely.

If you’ve had a previous loss or fertility challenges, you might choose to wait longer. That decision doesn’t mean you’re not excited. It means you’re protecting your emotions while your body continues to adjust.

Others may share the news sooner, especially with close family or a partner. Sometimes, the early symptoms—nausea, fatigue, emotional ups and downs—are difficult to hide. And in those moments, support can be a relief.

Different People, Different Timing

Your choice may depend on who you’re telling. A partner is often told right away. Parents and siblings might follow soon after. Friends or coworkers may come later.

Some people like to tell their closest circle early, regardless of the outcome. They want emotional support no matter what happens. Others prefer to wait until everything feels more certain.

There’s also the reality of logistics. If your job involves physical work, travel, or exposure to chemicals, you may need to inform your employer earlier. This allows for any necessary adjustments without putting your health at risk.

How to Decide What’s Right for You

Start by checking in with how you feel. Are you ready for questions? Are you prepared for advice, stories, or strong opinions? Telling someone often invites conversation. If you’re not ready for that, it’s okay to wait.

Think about the people you trust. Who makes you feel calm and safe? Those are often the right people to tell first. They will likely support you regardless of how early you share the news.

Some women find that writing it down helps. Make a list of people you want to tell and when. This brings structure to what can feel like a big, emotional decision.

Let the Moment Match Your Comfort

There’s no rush. Pregnancy is personal. Sharing it should feel like an extension of your comfort—not a performance. Whether you tell someone today, next week, or next month, what matters most is that the timing feels right to you.

Right now, your body is doing something remarkable. The decision of when to speak it out loud belongs fully to you. Let your pace guide you, and trust that the right moment will come.