Telling the in-laws that you're pregnant with their grandchild can be tricky. Some women have fantastic relationships with their in-laws and others not so much. Whatever the case may be, it's a momentous occasion when you tell them you're expecting. Here are some ways to keep the delivery smooth.

1. The responsibility is on your partner. Be clear with your partner that he needs to take the lead with revealing the news. He knows how to communicate with them better than anyone, so naturally, he should do the telling.
2. Ask questions. It helps to soften the situation and make them feel included if you ask them questions about their experiences with pregnancy and babies. Ask if they have any pictures of your mother-in-law’s pregnancy.
3. Lay out ground rules ahead of time. Make sure it’s clear to your partner what is and is not okay for his parents to be involved in. You might not want them in the delivery room, but coming to the baby shower is okay, for example.
4. Keep them involved. Regardless of how his parents take the news, try to keep them involved. Show them the ultrasound pictures; let them know how things are going. They will have their own relationship with their grandchild separate from their relationship with you.
5. Be prepared for unexpected reactions. Even the most loving in-laws might be less than overjoyed that you’re welcoming a child. Try not to judge or be upset with any reactions that you might get.