The best gifts for new moms

New babies are a lot of work and need a lot of supplies, as do new moms. The first three months, especially (the so-called “fourth trimester”), are a whirlwind of emotions, adjusting and very little sleep. A gift doesn’t have to be expensive or extravagant; you can give them something homemade like a frozen meal or just offer to spend time with them or take something off their plate. 

A postpartum care basket is always a great idea, and we’ve got nine more ideas for you if you’re still searching for a gift for the new mom or dad in your life.

Gift idea #1: Postpartum gift basket 

A gift basket can be a great way to include a little bit of all the essentials to get new parents. You can stock your gift basket with items for the baby and help with the mother’s labor and delivery recovery. Here are a few ideas of what you can put in your basket:

• Witch hazel and/or a peri bottle to help with soreness in the perineum and make going to the bathroom easier
• A personalized water bottle so they can get as much water as possible–crucial to help with constipation and healing
• Nursing supplies like nipple pads and balm to soothe sore nipples

The best part of a care basket is that you can customize it based on the needs of the postpartum parent.

Gift idea #2: Hot meals or a meal delivery service

New parents may find it nearly impossible to feed themselves, especially if they have other little ones at home. Consider a one-month subscription to a meal delivery service or cook and freeze a few meals yourself. Just make sure you take into account any allergies or food sensitivities.

Gift idea #3: Handsfree or wearable baby carrier

This gift is perfect for first-time parents adjusting to having a little one to carry around and seasoned parents who need their hands to handle other little ones. A comfortable baby carrier allows parents to keep their baby close while freeing up their hands for other tasks.

Gift idea #4: Gifts for new moms that aren’t for the baby

Of course, babies need lots of things, but you can also show a little love to mama with some self-care gifts. Here are a few ideas:

• Comfy slippers and loungewear (bonus points if the loungewear has access for nursing mothers)
• Gift card for a few new eBooks or digital music
• Compression socks
• Ear plugs
• Eye mask

You can splurge on a massage session or even a manicure or pedicure. Whatever you get, she will be thankful that you thought of her.

Gift idea #5: White noise machine

A white noise machine helps the baby (and parents!) sleep more soundly by creating a soothing environment, which is especially handy for those sleepless nights. To kick the gift up a notch, a portable and USB-chargeable machine is great if they are moving around the house or traveling.

Gift idea #6: Nursing pillow

A soft, comfortable nursing pillow has multiple uses. They help keep mom and baby comfortable, making feedings easier. The pillow also allows for propping, tummy time, and learning how to sit.

Gift idea #7: Extra long phone charging cord

It may seem like a small gift, but if a baby likes to sit in a certain spot for nursing or taking a nap, parents might be stuck in one spot for a while! An extra-long phone cord means they can stay in contact, watch or read something with their few precious free moments during the day, or capture a few memories with their camera phone without worrying that their mobile phone battery will die.

Gift idea #8: Gift cards

A gift card may seem a bit impersonal, but many new parents don’t know what they need until they need it. A gift card can give them a little extra help when an unforeseen need arises, like emergency diapers or something else. Gift cards also give them flexibility to get what they want/need.

Gift idea #9: Your time

Time is one thing many new parents simply do NOT have enough of. If you live nearby and are available, offering to run an errand or two or help grab any last-minute needs can be a massive help. Emotions fluctuate a lot during the first few postpartum months. Offering to be a listening ear or a shoulder to lean (or cry) on can make all the difference to new parents in the thick of the newborn haze.

Gift idea #10: Peace and time

Conversely, those first few months can be very challenging, and some new parents need time to adjust. They may also want to minimize exposure to any germs and just want those first moments alone with their new addition. One of the best gifts you can give is a simple phone call or text and an offer to come over when they’re ready. 

Whichever gift you choose, a healthy postpartum journey is always at the top of our list. At Genesis OBGYN, our experienced and caring staff of OB-GYNs, nurses, midwives and support stay with you from your first prenatal appointment to after the birth to support your entire pregnancy and postpartum journey. 

If you want to learn more about our postpartum care, request an appointment today!