Treats for your pregnant lady

Having a baby can be hard work. She'll be going through all sorts of changes not least giving up her favourite tipple and any hope of wearing clothes with a waist. Soften the blow with our top treats for mums-to-be...

The first three months of your partner’s pregnancy can be tricky. She probably won’t be showing and it’s usually best to pass the 12-week mark before telling everyone the news but, of course, she’ll be making major lifestyle adjustments, which can be a shock to the system.

• The first three months of pregnancy

Eat, drink and be merry...

Drastic changes to her diet, giving up alcohol and smoking can be tough, so why not get in some non-alcoholic alternatives that make her feel like she’s still having a treat? Try the sparkling, sophisticated and refreshing superflower drink from Hib. It can be served chilled or hot on those cold winter days. Or ginger beer from Belvior Fruit Farms stocked at Supermarkets for satisfying non-alcoholic bevies or even ready made Bloody Mary mix (without the gin, naturally) is a good substitute.

Going out...

Shifting your social life from the pub to other activities will also be much appreciated. Check out local cinemas and restaurants for nights out. She may be feeling exhausted and hormonal, in which case there is nothing like a spa break to cheer her up.

Visit Goodspaguide to find recommended spas for maternity treatments nationwide. If your wallet doesn't stretch to the full works, you can improvise with some home pampering products and bath time goodies from Greenpeople.

Getting away...

The second trimester is a good time to take a holiday and you may want to get away while you still can. Avoid long haul flights and opt for relaxing short breaks to get some much needed time away. The Canaries have good all round sun and Egypt’s Sharm el Sheik is a winner with lots of Five star hotels. Have a look at Flight.co.uk.

• The second three months of pregnancy

If the shoe fits...

A lot of pregnant women mourn the loss of their usual wardrobe as they progress further into pregnancy and even their beloved stilettos will have to be put away for a while. She‘ll be delighted if you surprise her with some new outfits or a great pair of comfy, stylish flat boots.

 

Her body is changing shape rapidly over this time so a good maternity wear stockist is very important. From a great pair of flattering jeans to a beautiful evening dress for a special occasion, check out ranges such as www.next.co.uk and for new Spring/Summer collections and to find local stockists.

Sweet dreams...

In the last trimester, sleeping maybe a problem for her. Try giving her a massage with relaxing lavender oil before bedtime. Although it may not seem very romantic, a Dream Genii pregnancy sleeping pillow, may make her love you forever if it means a great nights sleep.

• The final three months of pregnancy
  

Body beautiful...

Many women are concerned about stretch marks and the market is flooded with products. Boots have a vast range of stretch marks preventatives; the Botanics which is vast and affordable, and you can add a personal touch by mixing your own aromatherapy oils. Get a base oil such as sweet almond oil and add essential oils such as Lavender oil and Neroli, although this must not be used after the first three months of pregnancy.

You could opt for specially formulated stretch mark busters such as This Works Stretch Mark Oil (£32 for 120ml) or Bio Oil (£19.99 for 200ml). Pedicures are great for tired aching legs, and often really appreciated when she can’t reach her own toes! Again check Goodspaguide for local spas or go to her local beauty salon.

Chocolate heaven...

Pregnant women strangely do all seem to love chocolate.  There are affordable organic ranges such as Booja Booja or why not go the whole hog with The Chocoholics Hamper from Chocolate Trading co. Lastly, remember it doesn’t have to be about the money. So do the hoovering, make dinner, give her a foot rub and a bunch of flowers and remember to tell her she’s beautiful!

• Your relationship when you have a baby

Author

Kate Baily is a freelance journalist, specialising in real life, health and opinion pieces. She currently writes for The Daily Express, S Magazine and Woman Magazine and lives in Brighton with her husband, Dave, and son, William, who was born in 2007.

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