What To Bring A New Mum

Your friend/sister/cousin/neighbour has had a baby. Maybe its a while since you've had your little ones, maybe you don't have any yet or your baby brain simply won't function properly and your at a bit of a loss as to what gifts to take. Apart from the obvious nappies, sleepsuits and bibs what do we really, really want?

This little list is based on the bits I was thankful for and what I really needed but didn't get.

1 - Maternity pads
As a first time Mum I bought what I thought was plenty. I actually laugh at myself now! I had no idea how long it would be like a bloody war zone down there. We hadn't been home from the hospital a week and I'd run out. A pack of these are a must have and if you want a gold star put them in the fridge when you get there. Cool maternity pads are like sitting on a refreshing cloud!!

2. Breast pads
Pretty much the same as the maternity pads, a new Mum will go through far more than she thinks. I was unable to breastfeed and was advised to change breast pads regularly so my newborn didn't get a strong sniff of my milk and refuse his bottle, so I was out of them within a week or so.

3. Fresh fruit
Taking a poop for the first time after childbirth is nearly as scary as the actual labour, especially for those ladies with a 3 or 4 degree tear. That fear doesn't ease with all the various laxatives you are sent home with either, so help the strain (excuse the pun) and gift some fresh fruit. Even better, prepare it so it can be eaten without any faffing!

4. A meal
Over in the USA gifting a meal to new parents is the must do thing but we are a little bit behind the times on this side of the Atlantic. When my sister in law came to visit me 6 days post-birth holding a freshly cooked lasagne, large enough to feed us for two days I kissed her and nearly cried!! Don't give ingredients though. Give something that can go straight in the oven, no prep needed.

5. Oils
I've said it before and I'll say it again, I honestly the thought the whole essential oils in your bath thing was poppycock but it really isn't! I gift them to many a new Mum these days as they worked wonders for me! Lavender and Frankincense are great for helping heal tears and you only need one of two drops in the bath.

So if you're unsure of what to gift a new Mum pick something off this list or if you want to be her best friend for life gift them all!!

Mummy Snowy Owl
xx