Growing a tiny human is a pretty big achievement. Like you, we think pregnant people should be celebrated and supported while they do the hard yards, whether that's dropping around a hot meal, taking the dog for a walk or just spending some quality time together.
If there's a mum-to-be in your life that needs a little extra spoiling, you might be thinking about pregnancy gifts.
But, with so many options out there, it can be tricky to know where to start. While baby clothes and toys can be adorable, in this article we want to focus on pregnancy gifts that take care of mum too.
What are the best gifts for pregnant mums?
For first-time parents, preparing for the imminent arrival of their bundle of joy can be a mammoth task. Whether they're keen list-makers with a baby shower gift register already set up or more go-with-the-flow types, there's bound to be something out there that could help make their journey a little easier.
You'll have a sense of whether a pregnant friend likes sentimental gifts or would prefer something more practical. However, when shopping for an acquaintance or colleague, we recommend sticking to presents that are useful or consumable to avoid adding clutter at such a busy time.
If in doubt, you can even ask if there's anything they need. Here, we've rounded up the best pregnancy gift ideas to give you some inspiration.
#1 Nappy bag
No longer bulky and boring, nappy bags have come a long way in the last few years. The best ones are multipurpose, spacious, and comfortable to carry and go with every outfit.
As far as pregnancy gifts go, nappy bags are on the more expensive side but there are some affordable options that tick all the boxes and are designed to transition through all stages of motherhood, making them a perfect gift for first-time mums.
#2 Prenatal vitamins
Prenatal vitamins are recommended from 3 months before conception and throughout the first trimester.
#3 Comfy slides
It's common to get some swelling in pregnancy, particularly in the legs, ankles, feet and fingers. When it comes to shoes, a pair of adjustable slides are hard to beat for reducing foot pain and accommodating changes in size.
Consider gifting your friend a pair of cute and cool slides that they can wear throughout pregnancy.
#4 Protein powder and shaker
Pregnant people need around 33% more protein than usual to keep both baby and mum healthy. However, whether due to nausea, vomiting or simply the higher dietary requirement, many struggle to get enough of this important substance during their pregnancy journey. This is where protein powder can come in handy.
#5 Earplugs
Every hospital bag should include earplugs to make sure mum can get some sleep after the baby's arrival, no matter the noise levels in the hospital. While it might seem like a left-of-field gift, new mums will appreciate it greatly.
#6 Breastfeeding essentials
After giving birth, breastfeeding mums have a whole other challenge ahead of them. While some find it smooth sailing, others may need a little extra support in the first couple of months.
#7 Heat pack
Because of the baby's sensitivity to temperature changes, pregnant women are advised to avoid hot baths, especially in the first trimester [1]. Instead, the localised application of a heat pack can help relieve pregnancy aches and pains in the back, hips, and joints.
Consider gifting a heat pack that your loved one can use throughout pregnancy — it'll be the gift that keeps on giving.
#8 Pregnancy journal
Pregnancy can be a wild ride, with an endless amount of moments worth putting down on paper. A pregnancy journal can help expecting parents do just that and they'll be able to relive these special moments long after the baby has arrived.
#9 Belly cream
Luxurious and practical, a high-quality belly butter can help reduce the appearance of stretch marks and calm any inflammation or itching as the body goes through the many changes of pregnancy.
#10 Maternity clothing
Finding clothes that actually fit can be one of the frustrating aspects of pregnancy, so if your newly pregnant friend is a fashionista, consider gifting them some new maternity clothes for their pregnancy journey.
While picking out clothing for someone else can be difficult, there is always the option of a gift voucher.
#11 Drink bottle
Staying hydrated is essential throughout pregnancy and in those early months of breastfeeding [2], so a lightweight, easy-to-open insulated water bottle is a great gift option.
If your pregnant friend is suffering from dreaded morning sickness, tea made with warming ginger and soothing peppermint makes a thoughtful gift when paired with a reusable cup as well.
#12 Throw blanket
Pregnancy gifts should be all about keeping the pregnant person cosy, and a high-quality throw blanket definitely fits the bill. Plus, once the baby arrives, it can be used for both mum and bub to cuddle with or lay on.
.svg)