Why push presents are the new postpartum trend—and how to choose one that truly celebrates you

You carried life, endured the unknown, and did something extraordinary. No wonder more families are marking the moment with a thoughtful push present—a gift that acknowledges the physical and emotional journey of pregnancy and birth.

What’s behind the rise of push presents

Push presents have “seen a significant rise in popularity” in the United States as part of changing societal norms and represent “a modern expression of love and appreciation” for acknowledging “the physical and emotional toll of pregnancy and childbirth.”

The numbers tell an interesting story: a 2024 survey of 1,000 expecting mothers in the U.S. found that 74% believe all new mothers should receive push presents, with younger mothers showing even stronger support—82% of 18-24 year olds and 81% of 25-34 year olds favor the tradition. Despite this enthusiasm, 80% of surveyed mothers have never asked their partners for a push present, and among those who did receive one, 59% hadn’t requested it.

Celebrity influence has certainly accelerated the trend’s visibility. When Kim Kardashian received a diamond choker from Kanye West after the birth of their child, “it set a precedent that many wanted to follow.” But this gift-giving tradition isn’t new—it has historical roots spanning centuries across cultures including the UK, India, and Egypt, with jewelry traditionally being the most customary gift to symbolize “fertility, strength, and the preciousness of new life.” Even Napoleon gave the Napoleon Diamond Necklace to his wife Marie Louise upon the birth of their son in 1811.

The significance of celebrating birth takes on deeper meaning when we consider the challenges of childbearing. In 2021, the U.S. maternal mortality rate reached 32.9 deaths per 100,000 live births according to the CDC, highlighting why honoring safe deliveries and supporting postpartum recovery matters so much.

What exactly is a push present?

A push present is a token of appreciation for the labor of pregnancy and delivery. Certified birth and postpartum doula Kristin Revere defines it as “a token of appreciation for delivering the baby as well as carrying the baby or babies through pregnancy.”

These gifts can be given “before or after the birth, or even in the delivery room” and typically come from “a partner, family member, or boss” to mark the occasion of giving birth. As Linda Murray, executive editor of BabyCenter, explains: “It’s an expectation of moms these days that they deserve something for bearing the burden for nine months, getting sick, ruining their body.”

A note on inclusive language

Not everyone “pushes.” Cesarean births, adoptions, and surrogacy are equally worthy of celebration. The term “push present” faces criticism for being discriminatory as it “inherently excludes people who have cesarean sections and non-birthing parents who adopt or choose surrogacy,” with alternative terms like “baby baubles” or “birthing gifts” being proposed. Choose language that reflects your family’s unique experience.

How much should you spend?

Thoughtful doesn’t have to mean extravagant. Push presents typically cost between $25 and $300, with Massachusetts-based etiquette expert Jodi RR Smith advising couples to “consider their finances before purchasing” since “with a new baby, no one should go into debt to give a gift.” Focus on meaning, not price tag.

New mom gift ideas across budgets

Under $50

• Handwritten letter and framed photo: A heartfelt note paired with the first ultrasound or a favorite pregnancy photo.
• Self-care essentials kit: Lip balm, perineal spray, cozy socks, epsom salts, a gentle body oil—curated with postpartum recovery in mind.
• Custom playlist or sound escape: Create a quiet-time playlist or gift guided relaxation sessions for postpartum rest.

$50–$150

• Personalized jewelry: An initial pendant, engraved bar bracelet, or birthstone charm that can grow with future milestones.
• Spa-at-home bundle: Silk sleep mask, weighted blanket, aromatherapy diffuser, and quality teas for those 3 a.m. feeds.
• Memory keepsake box: For hospital bracelets, first hat, and notes—include acid-free envelopes and a pen for labeling.
• Premium loungewear or robe: Soft, nursing-friendly, and camera-ready for those first days at home.

$150–$300

• Photo session voucher: A newborn or family mini-session to capture the earliest days together.
• Meal support: A gift card to a favorite restaurant, a meal kit subscription, or a catered drop-off for the first week.
• Wellness subscription: Access to guided meditations, restful audio journeys, and practical masterclasses that support sleep, mood, and stress relief throughout postpartum.

$300 and up

• Heirloom jewelry: A meaningful piece—like a ring with baby’s birthstone, a locket with space for a tiny photo, or an engravable signet—chosen to be passed down.
• Weekend retreat for later: A future restorative weekend or couple’s night away once medically cleared and ready.
• Personalized art: Commission a line drawing of the birth moment, a custom star map of the baby’s birth time and place, or a family portrait illustration.

Experiences that nourish recovery

The postpartum period demands unique support. Consider these experience-based gifts that promote healing:

• Sleep and nervous system support: Short, immersive audio practices can help with stress, anxious thoughts, and disrupted sleep common in the fourth trimester.
• Education on demand: Bite-sized classes on pelvic floor care, feeding, relationships after baby, and returning to movement help parents feel supported and confident.
• Micro-moments of joy: Daily nudges—like a two-minute breath reset or affirmations—can make long days feel lighter.

Practical tips for partners and family choosing a push present

If you’re selecting a gift for a new mother, these approaches can help make your choice truly meaningful:

• Start with her story: What parts of pregnancy were hardest? What moments felt most meaningful? A gift that mirrors her journey—like a charm for perseverance or a journal to capture milestones—will feel deeply personal.
• Think recovery, not just romance: Postpartum is tender. Gifts that promote rest, comfort, and dignity—like plush robes, meal support, or stress-relief tools—often mean the most.
• Keep timing flexible: Gifts can be shared at a prenatal appointment, in the hospital, or during a quiet moment at home. There’s no wrong time to say “I see you.”
• Personalize where possible: Initials, birthstones, or a tiny engraving of baby’s birth date or coordinates turn a simple item into a keepsake.
• Pair tangible + intangible: A small piece of jewelry alongside a promise—one afternoon a week protected for her rest or a recurring chore you’ll own—speaks volumes.
• Align with your budget: Remember the typical $25–$300 range and choose what’s comfortable now. Add-on charms or experiences can mark future milestones.
• Consider inclusivity: For C-section births or non-birthing parents, choose language and gifts that reflect their unique role and experience.
• Don’t wait for a request: Most moms don’t ask for push presents, even if they’d love the acknowledgment. A surprise, even a handwritten note, can be profoundly affirming.
• Capture the moment: Present the gift alongside a photo, a simple toast, or a voice note she can revisit on hard days.

A few thoughtful scenarios

Different mothers have different needs—here are some tailored ideas:

The minimalist mom: Gift a thin gold bar necklace engraved with baby’s initials and a shared note describing your favorite pregnancy memory.

The sensory-sensitive sleeper: A white-noise machine, silk pillowcase, and access to soothing audio journeys for 10-minute naps between feeds.

The sentimental storyteller: A leather-bound journal and a set of printed prompts to document the birth story and those fleeting firsts.

The practical planner: A week of meals, a streamlined pumping caddy, and a promise to manage nighttime bottle washing.

Celebrate birth—your way

The best push presents aren’t about price tags or trends; they’re about recognition. Whether it’s a handwritten letter, a tiny birthstone charm, or a season of intentional support, choose something that says: “I see your strength. I honor your recovery. I’m here.”

The postpartum journey deserves celebration, support, and meaningful acknowledgment. A thoughtfully chosen push present doesn’t just honor what’s been accomplished—it helps sustain a new mother through the transition ahead.