Albert Barnes Commentary Luke 1:24

"And after these days Elisabeth his wife conceived; and she hid herself five months, saying," — Luke 1:24 (ASV)

Hid herself. Did not go out in public and concealed her condition. This might have been done so that she might spend her time more fully in giving praise to God for his mercies, and so that she might have the fullest proof of the fulfillment of the promise before she appeared in public or spoke of God’s mercies.