8 Gifts for Expecting Mothers

While awaiting the arrival of a new baby, there are plenty of items to make the lifestyle transition easier. Choose between gifts for the new baby, mom, or precious gifts they share and enjoy together. Let your baby fever run wild as you seek out the perfect baby shower gift and talk about what the parents are going to name the baby. Here is a compilation of the eight best gifts for expecting mothers.

#1: Nursing Robe

An expecting mom endures tons of physical changes. During this process, she will be seeking more comfort in her everyday life. But, this doesn't mean she can't be stylish in the meantime. An elegant silk robe or kimono will have the mom to be feeling cozy and pampered. As an added bonus, robes have a functional component for moms that choose to nurse. The gift of a nursing robe is a delightful way for the expecting mom to still feel poised in uncomfortable moments.

#2: Onesies

One can never go wrong when choosing to gift onesies to an expecting mother. One-piece bodysuits are an essential staple of a baby's wardrobe. They quickly become a go-to for mommy to grab after bath time and diaper changes. This versatile piece is worn year-long beneath sweaters and snowsuits or on its own during tummy time. Baby is constantly growing, so rest assured knowing that they will not go to waste. It is highly likely that the child will wear onesies up to age two years old.

#3: Stretch Mark Cream

Stretch marks are an inevitable part of the baby-growing process. An expecting mom has the beautiful privilege of carrying a delicate life. But, that doesn't mean she can't take precautions to minimize the battle scars that are stretch marks. Stretch mark cream can make a nice addition to a spa night gift basket. Neatly place it alongside face masks, bath bombs, and essential oils to encourage an expecting mom to spoil herself. She deserves it.

#4: Baby Formula

Yes, mom will have her own supply of nutrients for the baby to thrive. But, baby formula is a great resource to have on hand. Baby formula is a nutritious option for when mom is not available or simply chooses to prepare a bottle. As newborns, babies can eat as frequently as every 3 hours. Baby formula is a thoughtful gift that ensures the baby will have what they need, no matter what.

#5: Books

There are some things that we just don't think about. In these instances, turning to a book can be a real eye-opener. The gift of a book arms an expecting mom with resources she may not have otherwise stumbled across. Get creative and think outside the box. Not to mention, reading between mom and baby strengthens the bond. Hearing mom's voice in utero has amazingly positive effects on the baby's disposition. Here are some examples of book topics.

Books for baby:

• Fairy tales

• Lullabies

• Book of first words

Books for mom:

• What to expect at various developmental stages

• Homemade baby food recipes

• What they don't tell you about childbirth

#6: Pregnancy pillow

A pregnancy pillow is a body pillow made with curves and contours to help an expecting mom lie comfortably in bed. A growing baby has an impact on every aspect of an expecting mom's life. Even the position in which she sleeps endures some changes. An expecting mom has exponentially many more moments of exhaustion than usual.

#7: Fuzzy Slippers

An expecting mom is encouraged to stay active and move ground. But, once she has reached the third trimester of pregnancy, she won't be able to move like she used to. By this time, she has been carrying her growing baby for roughly 27 weeks. Her feet have most likely been hurting and swollen at times. Slippers don't necessarily take away the pain, but they can be a soft landing spot after a long day.

#8: Diaper Cake

Diapers are a practical gift, but who says it has to be mundane? Tear open the package and creatively arrange ordinary diapers around themselves or use a steady surface like styrofoam to make a tiered "cake." These cakes are often accessorized with pink, blue, or gender-neutral ribbons. Sometimes, there is no need to overthink things. Babies need diapers.