I've had a recent conversation with one of my colleagues from work regarding gifts that are given to expectant mothers. I mentioned that as far as my experience goes, most people (me included) are always inclined to buy cute things for the little ones and was nicely impressed that she wanted to give something for the mother's use and not the baby's.
Got me thinking that after getting married or a bit later, women usually start to receive gifts that are not actually for them in particular. For example, kitchen accessories/electronics to help her cook better for her family or things for the home, stuff for the baby, kids, etc?
Hmm...I think I'm gonna need to start re-thinking the way I give things myself, since I did these things too. Usually it's because it's easy and time economic to use a stereotype than try to find out what the person likes/needs or what hobbies she might have nowadays. Sometimes you find yourself there's no way in the world you have enough time in the day or means to find out.
But I also discovered the joy of giving people something practical that they needed at a certain moment and found out it feels very satisfying to me also that the present was appreciated (I guess I'll never know that one for sure, but one can only hope).
So getting back to our future to be mothers here, I've compiled a list of maybe not so common, but helpful (I hope) and practical gifts that you could use in case of need.
1. A pregnancy massage/massage package given by a specialized center
Pregnant women find themselves facing back pain, swollen feet and hands which brings difficulties when moving around, tiredness and a general not so nice mood. A good massage therapist to help improve on these areas is a blessing and something many future to be mothers can't afford as they need to save money for the little one.
Attention: Massage on pregnant ladies can be done only with the doctor's consent.
2. A set of pregnancy courses for the new parents.
Usually, if the couple is having their first child they have no clue over many of the things related to pregnancy. And although the internet is a great source of information, it is also a great source of anxiety especially for first time moms who are not sure what to believe and what not. My opinion is that the best way to get informed is to attend some classes held by specialized personnel and have them respond to all the questions that might appear.
In Romania, if the father also participates, he gets 10 extra paid days to be able to stay home and tend to the mother and child.
3. A belly support band.
For me it's one of the best things ever because it keeps the belly in place giving me a lot freedom to move, exercise, etc. I wear the belly support band in combination with under the bump maternity jeans for the best support.
4. A maternity pillow
They are useful especially at the end of the second trimester and during the third one when the bump gets bigger and a pregnant lady needs better support for sleep and relaxation.
I've got a regular U shaped one and I'm happy with it, but you can find them in several shapes. I cannot tell if it's the best option since it's the only one I've tried, but it sure gets points for comfort.
Some of them can also be used after giving birth for nursing and are available at all ranges of prices depending on the budget.
5. Ask what she would need
If you are close to the expectant mother, a good option is to ask what she needs. Many people feel uncomfortable asking what others need. The recipients feel uncomfortable asking for things.
However, a list of things to choose from is beneficial for both sides. The one making the gift saves time browsing the stores thinking what to buy and the mother gets something she actually needs and won't need to spend money on.
It might indeed not be such a surprise to give an expected gift, but you could always add a touch of fun and unexpected with an amusing postcard or a cookie.
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