Pregnancy comes with lots of unknowns, when you’ll go into labor, how will you feel throughout the 9 months, will it be a boy or a girl, will you have a c-section or natural birth, etc. And, on top of all this there are many side effects that are just not fun! Morning sickness, swelling, headaches, bloating, back pain, to name a few. So, why not take every opportunity to encourage a pregnant mama? A pregnancy survival kit is a cute way to come alongside an expectant mother and let her know that you’ve got her back and everything will be okay!
Now, what would you put in a pregnancy survival kit? Anything that is helpful for pregnancy symptoms or just something that the mama likes! My sister is expecting her first baby and I recently sent her a little kit, here’s what I included along with a few other ideas.
1. Blow Pops
Blow pops are a cute item to include in the box. Not only do they taste good, but many moms have found that sucking a lollipop helps them to not feel sick in the mornings. Add a cute little note like, “For when you are about to pop!”
2. M&Ms
You can add any chocolate really, just make sure it’s something the mama likes. I chose coffee-nut M&Ms for my sister and included a note that said it was for when she craves coffee but can’t drink it. M&Ms would also be cute if your friend is having twins.
3. Facemask
Pregnancy can be very stressful, especially if it is their first time. So include a facemask to help them find time to relax and de-stress. If you can’t find a facemask you like, then include some bubble bath or a scented candle.
4. Chapstick
New mamas always need chapstick! I know when I had my baby, my lips were so dry in the hospital air. She’ll need soft lips for all those baby kisses she’s going to have! Get a flavor that she will like. I prefer to go with organic lip balm, you always end up eating a lot of it anyway.
5. Post-It Notes
These are to help with pregnancy brain. You know, when you are speaking with someone and totally forget a word you wanted to say or you show up to your doctor’s appointment a day early. Writing things down really helps you not forget. If you didn’t want to use post-it notes, any little notebook would work as well.
6. Thank You Cards
This is the most practical item. Your expectant mama friend will need to write thank you notes to all the people that will buy her baby gifts. Make sure you get her a big pack so she’s all set to go.
7. Ginger mints/Tea
Ginger mints helped me so much during my first trimester. I kept some in my purse, at my desk at work, in my kitchen, really anywhere I could keep a tin! They really calmed my stomach and made life with morning sickness bearable for me. This is a great item to add to your pregnancy survival kit.
8. Lotion
Stretch marks are one of the many side effects of pregnancy. But, I’ve found that aloe vera and coconut oil go a long way in helping them fade and disappear completely! I love this lotion that is 84% aloe! It really helped the stretch marks on my sides and tummy. https://amzn.to/2IzSGZQ
9. Maternity Top
There are so many cute options when it comes to maternity clothes these days! So pick up a cute shirt or tank top and include it with your package.
10. Handwritten note
Include a note from you explaining the box and how you can’t contain your excitement for the new arrival. Get personal and tell your friend how much you love her and support her. This means so much, especially if you’re far away!
Bonus: include one item for the baby.
Even though this box is specifically for mama, one item for the baby can’t hurt! Maybe a cute onesie, little booties/socks, or even a hat.
I am sure your pregnant friend will be so encouraged by a box from you! Be sure to make it specific to them. Include their favorite candy, scents, colors, etc. so that they will really feel the love when they open it. You not only want them to survive, but to thrive.
Do you have an expectant mother in your life who needs some encouragement? What else would you add to the pregnancy survival kit?
