Question you should never ask
“Are you pregnant?”
A co-worker of mine asked me that the other day. A female co-worker. You’d think she would know not to utter those three words, being a woman herself. But I was snacking at my desk, and apparently pregnant women eat, so I can see her confusion.
I assured her I’m not with child. And was too stunned to say much else, like, “that’s a rude question!” or “why would you ask me that?”
Now I’m self-conscious about eating so I will have to resort to wearing control-top chonies, and taking my snacks into the bathroom stall to eat. Next, co-workers will accuse me of being bulemic.
I remember the first time I was asked that question (yes, it has happened more than once…). I was 18 and working at the pet hospital in some rather large scrubs. I guess the lady mistook them for maternity wear. WHATEVER! I agree with you, women really should know better. Even when it is painfully obvious that someone is pregnant, I never say anything until they mention something first. it’s just safer that way.
And I remember the first time I asked that question! It’s incredibly embarrassing. For the next 40 years I didn’t ask it again unless the woman was so huge and doing the duck walk that it was a safe bet! Until last year…. I did it again…. and she wasn’t…. and she’s one of our auditors….
For one brief moment, my life flashed before my eyes….
People used to ask me that. No, let me rephrase: French women used to ask me that. Damn French women with their concave bellies!
Really. I was slim all over, but had a little belly pudge. So of course I must have been pregnant. (Can you see me rolling my eyes?)