11 Pregnancy Gifts That Expecting Moms Actually Want

During a pregnancy, there’s so much focus on the baby that mom often gets lost in the excitement. That’s why it’s especially important to take care of expecting moms with special gifts just for them.
Couple with hands over pregnant belly (Photo: crystalmariesing via Twenty20)
Couple with hands over pregnant belly (Photo: crystalmariesing via Twenty20)

Everything changes when you become a parent. From the very moment you find out you’re expecting a baby, suddenly there are doctor appointments to manage, classes to attend, books to read, and things to buy in preparation for your little one.

There’s so much focus on the baby that mom (and dad) often get lost in the excitement. That’s why it’s especially important to take care of expecting moms, with special gifts just for them (not for baby—that’s what baby showers are for, after all).

Pregnancy Gift Ideas for Moms

If you’re looking for a way to treat your favorite mama-to-be, read on for best pregnancy gift ideas for first-time moms. Bonus: All of these gifts are either useful when traveling (hello, spa gift card) or can easily be packed for traveling with a baby

Baby Heart Beat Tracker

For many moms, there aren’t a lot of doctor appointments required in the first trimester. And even in the second trimester, appointments typically are typically once a month. Thirty days can feel like an eternity to go without the reassuring sound of baby’s heartbeat. That’s why a fetal doppler such as the Baby Doppler Sonoline B Baby Heart Beat Tracker is a thoughtful, useful gift for a first-time mom.

YETI Rambler with Straw Lid

Pregnant moms need to drink a lot of water. Get mom-to-be the YETI Rambler with a straw lid to ensure her water is always refreshingly cold. The straw lid makes this cup especially ideal for keeping on her nightstand. Another great option is the HydroMate, which features motivational messages for drinking water on its exterior.

Burts Bees Mama Bee Belly Butter 

Stretch marks are inevitable for many moms, but applying a daily dose of Burts Bees Mama Bee Belly Butter is a good way to prevent them—and/or a good way to simply relax. Made with shea butter, this formula is super nourishing. It’s also free of fragrance, parabens, and phthalates, ensuring both mom and baby are safe. Many moms swear by a combination of Burts Bees Belly Butter and Earth Mama Belly Oil for preventing stretch marks. 

Crocs

Crocs aren’t glamorous; they’re not even attractive. But man, are they comfortable—especially for moms who are pregnant in the summer time and more prone to swelling in the heat. Crocs Slip-On Shoes are perfect for gardening, cleaning, taking the dog out, or just lounging around the house. 

Gift Card for Maternity Clothing

Pregnant moms need clothes, particularly maternity bras, maternity pants and leggings, maternity pajamas, and perhaps a maternity swimsuit or two. That’s why a gift card for maternity clothes will go a long way. Some great maternity clothes brands to consider: 

Spa Gift Card

Another useful gift card idea for moms to be? A gift card to the spa, where she can relax with a prenatal facial or massage. And if, for whatever reason, she’s unable to take advantage of a spa treatment during her pregnancy, she can use the gift card after baby arrives. Bonus if you offer to babysit while she uses it!

Preggie Pop Drops

Preggie Pop Drops, or anything that helps with first-trimester (or second- or third-trimester) nausea, are a thoughtful gifts for expecting moms. Preggie Pop Drops are known to relieve pregnancy nausea and come in four flavors: Lemon, Raspberry, Green Apple and Tangerine. Sea-Bands, ginger candies, and scented oils might also do the trick.

Or maybe just get mom-to-be a gift card to her favorite fast food joint because sometimes (okay, most times), carbs are the only antidote to pregnancy nausea. 

Pregnancy Letter Board

Many first-time moms like to document their pregnancy with weekly photos, so a letter board she can update and pose with will come in handy. There are tons of great options on Amazon and Etsy. Plus, a letter board can be used for the baby shower, baby announcement, baby’s monthly milestone photos, and beyond. 

Expecting You—A Keepsake Pregnancy Journal

Another great way for mom to document her pregnancy is via a journal such as Expecting You—A Keepsake Pregnancy Journal. This sweet book prompts mom to write down monthly updates about how she’s feeling and what she’s most excited about, as well as the story of how she found out she was pregnant, baby name ideas, and more.

Leachco Snoogle Pregnancy Pillow 

Some say pregnancy pillows work wonders; others say they’re a waste. But most pregnant moms secretly want the Snoogle, a full body pillow guaranteed to keep them cool and comfortable. 

Shewee

Depending on your relationship with mom-to-be, you may or may not feel comfortable gifting her a Shewee. And you may find it odd to even see this on our list. But hear us out: pregnant moms have to pee. A LOT. And sometimes a bathroom is hard to find, say if you’re on a hike in the woods… or even just 10 minutes from home.

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Amanda Norcross is a family travel expert who's previously written for FamilyVacationist. Her expertise has also been featured in major media outlets including Bloomberg, Cheddar, Family Vacation Critic, NBC News, Red Tricycle, SmarterTravel, The New York Times, USA Today, U.S. News & World Report, and The Weather Channel. Amanda enjoys traveling with her curious toddler and seeing the world through his eyes.

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