"Being slightly paranoid is like being slightly pregnant - it tends to get worse"

This quote by Molly Ivins is a humorous method of highlighting the idea that fear is a slippery slope. As soon as somebody begins to feel paranoid, it can rapidly become worse and even worse. It is a warning to be knowledgeable about the indications of paranoia and to take actions to avoid it from intensifying. The comparison to pregnancy is also a suggestion that fear is not something that can be ignored. It is a serious problem that can have a major effect on someone's life. The quote is a suggestion to be aware of the indications of paranoia and to take actions to prevent it from intensifying. It is also a tip that paranoia is not something to be taken lightly and ought to be attended to as quickly as possible.