I met a friend and a mother of a two-year-old recently. She’s been planning for a second child with her partner, and her doctor recently advised her to train up her weakened pelvic floor muscles ahead of time. Of course, there are plenty other concerns for her body, but I can tell they’re almost scant considerations for her; the unrivalled joy of growing her family simply outweighs her worries. They are still very real concerns however, second pregnancy or not.
The reality is that pregnancy is a trying, arduous voyage in itself; one that necessitates immense toll for immense reward. In a recent 2024 study published by the journal Science, it takes nearly 50,000 calories to pull off a pregnancy to full term. Throughout the trimesters, the body goes through a reckoning. A sharp rise in cardiac output could induce heavy spells of fatigue, swelling in the legs, lower back pain or even gestational hypertension. In preparation for childbirth, loosened ligaments and joints means that connective tissues are more susceptible to overstretching or tearing.
Whilst the ‘pregnancy glow’ isn’t just a myth, severe hormonal changes—ultimately required to support the developing fetus and prepare the mother for childbirth—may enlarge breasts, cause fluid retention and heightened sensitivity to smell and taste, the latter potentially leading to nausea or morning sickness. Then there are the emotional stresses, the sleep disturbances, the dull, dehydrated skin. Meaning the supposed ‘glow’ may feel further away for most, especially on certain days of the pregnancy.
So the physiological demands are endless, as are the invisible effects felt by the mother, in response to her changing form. Yet, it’s also one of the greatest strengths of a woman’s body—to pull all of it off. And sometimes, they just need the cherished support of their closest ones. Whilst baby showers are often thrown to celebrate the expected birth of a child, they’re also meant to show our love for the mothers who are at the heart of it all. To tide them through a physically and emotionally taxing prenatal journey, these practical and thoughtful gifts will surely feel like a warm, much-needed hug.
To hydrate the skin
Some might deal with the appearance of stretch marks. Others might be feeling down about their dehydrated skin. These moisturising lathers and firming oils will certainly be their bedside best friend when it comes down to it.
For first-time mothers
Between compression socks to improve circulation or a self-care tool to help her ground herself throughout her growing bump days, these considered gifts might help a mother who’s still trying to find her footing amid her pregnancy journey.
To calm, to soothe
A gentle way of saying: take a step back, slow down and breathe.
For the mothers who need a full pamper
In the throes of her second and third trimester, carve out an afternoon in their schedules, and whisk them away for some much-needed hours of pure bliss.
