Welcoming a new member of the family is a big change for everyone, but often siblings can feel the hardest hit.
No longer are they the apple of their parents’ eye and they have to take on the responsibility of being an ‘older’ brother or sister - setting a good example, even when they don’t always want to.
So it is understandable that sometimes a pregnancy announcement isn’t always met with the joy and enthusiasm that mum and dad might anticipate...
When you don’t know how to react.
These two sisters didn’t know quite what to make of their parents’ big news. Shock, excitement, realisation?
At least the dog gets someone else to throw his ball.
When you find out you’re getting a brother.
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HuffPost
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HuffPost
It was all going well for this little girl when her mum handed her a present, a cupcake to be precise. Then she clocks it is a blue cupcake and her mum tells her she’s going to be getting a little brother...
No amount of cake is making up for that face.
When you find out you’re getting a sister.
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YouTube
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YouTube
This little boy, who has two sisters already, was not pleased when he cut into the gender reveal cake and it was pink.
Dad tried to comfort him by saying: “I had the same reaction buddy”, but nothing is cheering this big brother up.
In fact he was so unhappy he refused to eat the cake - now that is dedication.
When you regret what you asked for.
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YouTube
This little girl might have asked for a baby sister, but she really regretted her decision when she found out she was getting exactly what she asked for.
She just wants to be the only one. And who can blame her? She’s going to have to start sharing those doughnuts.
When you just don’t understand.
This little boy is speaking so much sense: “Why do you need another baby you already have two?! This is exasperating. Why do you want to replace two of your babies? It’s too much.”
As much as mum tries to explain he isn’t having any of it: “And buy me some earplugs too!”
When your worried you might be overlooked.
Not all siblings are human, and this furry paw in these maternity pictures proves just how invested family pets are in pregnancy.
After all, it means less tummy stroking and treats for them...
Pregnancy worries and words of comfort
I have no morning sickness! Is that bad news?(01 of10)
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You might have read things about how morning sickness signifies a healthy level of pregnancy hormones – but not having morning sickness does not mean you're lacking! Although many women suffer with it (and 'suffer' really is the word), many other women do not. Some women have it one pregnancy, but not in another. Attend all your usual checks and count yourself as one of the lucky ones! (credit:Alamy )
I drank before I knew I was pregnant, I might have harmed the baby(02 of10)
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This happens to many, many expectant mums, and it's unlikely to be a cause for concern at all. Mention it to your GP/midwife, and just keep off the booze now, until you can enjoy a celebratory glass of fizz when your bundle arrives. (credit:Alamy )
I'll lose the baby(03 of10)
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It's estimated about one in five pregnancies ends in early miscarriage, and it's thought most of those occur simply because the foetus wasn't developing properly. It does happen, but don't let it rule your thoughts because the vast majority of pregnancies do succeed. Try not to worry and remember that once you're into the second trimester, the chances of miscarriage is dramatically reduced. (credit:Alamy )
My baby might not be 'perfect'(04 of10)
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It's estimated that one in 16 babies in the UK is born with a birth defect – but this figure refers to all birth defects, and many are mild and can be treated. So it's likely your baby won't have a birth defect, and even if they do, they will be perfect in their own way – remember support is available for every eventuality. Take your folic acid and attend your antenatal screening appointments. (credit:Alamy )
I won't make it to the hospital on time(05 of10)
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You might have read terrifying stories about pregnant women giving birth in car parks and taxis – but these stories make it to the news because they are extraordinary, in the literal sense of the word! It very rarely happens, and most women get plenty of warning that labour is beginning. So plan well, and all is very likely to be fine. (credit:Alamy )
I might have to have a c-section(06 of10)
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If you do end up needing a c-section, you might feel disappointed – but believe us, in the moment the only thing you'll really care about is the safe delivery of your baby. It won't be the end of the world and you won't care a jot when your baby is in your arms. (credit:Alamy )
I won't be able to cope during labour(07 of10)
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There is just no telling how labour will be for you, so don't worry about it now. Make your birth plan, discuss it with your partner and midwife, and go with the flow on the day (it's okay to change your mind!). There will be lots and lots of help and support at your disposal. Not to mention drugs, should you need them. (credit:Alamy )
Labour will humiliating (will I poo on the bed?!)(08 of10)
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You've heard about that then? It can happen, but the doctors and midwives have seen it all – they have experienced every possible scenario. They won't be worrying about things like that, so neither should you. (credit:Alamy )
I don't know how to be a mum(09 of10)
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No-one does until they become one! Every new mum feels like they're winging it in the early days. As your baby grows and you get to know them, you'll learn. Trust in the fact that just about every mother has gone through it… and survived. (credit:Alamy )
I'm worried about gaining all that weight(10 of10)
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You will put on weight, yes – but it's normal and nothing to be afraid of! Much weight gain is actually down to the baby, the placenta, extra blood in your system and the retention of water. Pregnancy changes your body in myriad ways – just enjoy it, and let your body just do its thing at this special time. Remember, there's no need to 'eat for two'… but eat what you need and don't count calories. (credit:Alamy )