In these unprecedented times of the coronavirus pandemic, the health of pregnant women and their unborn babies has become a paramount concern. With social distancing measures in place, traditional baby showers, a beloved practice of celebrating a future birth with family and friends, have become a challenge to organise. However, with a little creativity, there are ways to safely commemorate this crucial period in a woman’s life. This article explores how UK mothers-to-be can organise a safe and healthy baby shower during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Adapting To The New Normal
The coronavirus pandemic has significantly altered our lives. It has drastically affected how we interact with the people we love and the way we celebrate life’s pivotal moments. For pregnant women, this shift is particularly pronounced.
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When it comes to baby showers, it is essential to adapt to the new circumstances. Understand that while face-to-face gatherings may not be possible, this does not mean that the celebration should be completely abandoned.
One approach is to opt for virtual baby showers. With platforms like Zoom, Skype, or Google Hangouts, expectant mothers can invite their friends and family to join a video call where they can chat, play games, and open gifts. Gifts can be sent in advance via online shopping platforms, allowing the mom-to-be to open them live during the event.
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Health and Safety Precautions
Keeping the health and safety of the mother and baby foremost, there are several precautions that can be taken during this pandemic. According to a study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), pregnant women may have the same risk as adults who are not pregnant. However, they are more likely to get severely ill from coronavirus than non-pregnant people. Therefore, it is vital to take extra precautions when organising baby showers during this time.
If you decide to host a physical event, consider having a small gathering with only immediate family members who live in the same household or a ‘drive-by’ baby shower where guests can drop off gifts without physical interaction. Ensure that everyone involved follows the government’s health and safety guidelines. This includes maintaining a two-metre distance, wearing face masks, and regularly washing hands.
Navigating Through Emotional Challenges
Pregnancy is a time of great joy, but it can also bring about significant emotional challenges. The added stress of the pandemic can make these challenges even more daunting. As such, it is essential to ensure that the baby shower provides emotional support to the expectant mother.
Keep in mind that the purpose of a baby shower is not just to receive gifts, but to shower the mother-to-be with love and positivity. Use this time to uplift her spirits, share uplifting stories, and reassure her that she is not alone.
Budgeting and Planning
Organising a baby shower during a pandemic also requires careful budgeting and planning. A recent survey revealed that the pandemic has affected the financial situation of many households. However, this should not deter you from celebrating this special occasion.
You can organize a budget-friendly baby shower by opting for DIY decorations, homemade food, and inexpensive but thoughtful gifts. You can also leverage online resources and platforms for invitations and games, many of which are available for free.
Connecting With Healthcare Professionals
Finally, it is always wise to stay connected with healthcare professionals during this period. They can provide guidance on how to safely organise a baby shower during the pandemic. They can also provide up-to-date information about COVID-19, its effects on pregnant women, and the precautions that should be followed.
Remember, your doctor or midwife is your best source of advice during this time. Don’t hesitate to consult them if you have any concerns or questions. They can provide you with the much-needed reassurance and guidance to ensure you have a safe and healthy baby shower.
Mental Health Considerations
The mental health of pregnant women, especially during the COVID pandemic, has been a thematic analysis topic in several studies. With the added stress of navigating through a pandemic while being pregnant, it is not surprising that many researchers have seen an increase in anxiety and depression among expectant mothers. This indicates the critical importance of emotional wellbeing during pregnancy.
Organising a baby shower, despite the lockdown restrictions in the United Kingdom, can play a significant role in boosting the mental health of the mother-to-be. It is a celebration that not only anticipates the arrival of a new life but also acknowledges the journey of the mother. By organising a baby shower, whether online or a small physical gathering, friends and family can provide support and show their love for the expectant mother.
Make sure to tailor the baby shower to suit the mother’s preferences. Some mothers might prefer a relaxed sip and see party, while others might want a more active celebration. Encourage her friends and family to share words of encouragement, advice, and well wishes. It is also a good idea to include activities that promote relaxation and positivity, such as a group meditation or a short yoga session.
Remember, it’s not just about the gifts or the guest list, but the emotional support that a baby shower can provide to an expectant mother during these challenging times.
A COVID-19 Safe Celebration
Ensuring the safety of the mother-to-be and the guests during the baby shower is of utmost importance. With the ongoing national lockdown, it is crucial to adhere to the guidelines set by the health services of the United Kingdom.
One of the suitable options is to organize a virtual baby shower where guests can join in from the comfort of their homes. This way, the risk of exposure to the virus is significantly reduced. There are numerous online platforms available that can be used to host a virtual baby shower, allowing everyone to participate in the celebration safely.
If a small physical gathering is preferred, ensure that all the guests are aware of the safety protocols. Maintain social distancing, encourage wearing masks, and provide sanitizing options. Limit the guest list to only those who are weeks pregnant or those living in the same household.
In this new normal, it is essential to find ways to celebrate while still prioritizing the health and safety of everyone involved.
Conclusion
In the face of the COVID pandemic, adjusting to new ways of celebrating life’s big moments is a challenge. However, it is not impossible, especially when it comes to organising a baby shower for expectant mothers. By considering the mental health of the mother-to-be, carefully budgeting and planning, and adhering to health guidelines, a joyful and memorable baby shower can be achieved.
Pregnancy is a journey, and amidst all the challenges brought by the pandemic, it is vital to remember that it is a celebration of life. It is possible to organise a safe and healthy baby shower during COVID, where we can shower the mom-to-be with love, offer emotional support, and foster positivity.
As we navigate through these unprecedented times, let us not forget the importance of being there for each other, even if it is virtually. At the end of the day, the most important gift we can give is our unwavering support and love.
