Top Pregnancy Journals for Expecting Parents
Bloom Daily Planners Pregnancy and Baby’s First Year Undated Planner/Journal
We found this journal to be perfect for expecting parents who want to document their journey creatively. It strikes a balance between functionality and artistic expression.
- Generous tabbed sections for easy organization.
- Includes colourful stickers to personalise your entries.
- We noticed that the calendar starts on Mondays, which might not suit everyone.
Studio Oh! Guided Pregnancy Journal
This journal is ideal for those seeking a vibrant yet structured way to document their pregnancy. Its design helps keep mothers organised with a fun flair.
- Features whimsical artwork across its pages, making it a joy to use.
- Includes multiple pockets for photographs, adding a scrapbook element.
- The left side of the pages can be tricky to write on due to the spine’s interference.
Pearhead My Pregnancy Journal
We thought this journal was great for parents looking for an easy way to track their pregnancy milestones with guided prompts.
- Well-organised with tabbed sections, making it straightforward to navigate.
- Prompts are educational and help track significant changes during pregnancy.
- We found that it lacks ample space for free writing, which may disappoint some.
Which pregnancy journals are best?
Pregnancy journals offer a delightful way for expecting parents to capture and cherish special moments throughout their journey to childbirth. Each journal boasts its own design, layout, and unique features, transforming them into cherished keepsakes. With these journals, you can track everything from cravings to ultrasound photos, creating a lasting memory for your family.
Key Considerations When Selecting a Pregnancy Journal
Format
Most pregnancy journals follow a common format that includes significant milestones such as when you discovered you were expecting and the first ultrasound results. Some journals adopt a more structured approach, allowing you to fill in specific details, while others embrace a more casual style with bright colours and fun stickers.
Some journals are organised by trimester, detailing corresponding days, weeks, and months, while others provide a more open format for personal thoughts and experiences.
Many journals also feature pockets for special photos, tabbed sections for easy navigation, fill-in-the-blank areas, checklists, and stickers.
Cover Design
Journals come in both softcover and hardcover options, with various binding styles, from spiral for easy page turning to traditional book formats. The covers often feature catchy titles like “Bump for Joy!” or “My Pregnancy Journal” and are adorned with vibrant designs, ranging from cute animals to floral patterns.
Many are designed to be gender-neutral, ensuring they suit anyone regardless of whether the baby’s gender is known. The colour scheme typically remains consistent throughout the journal.
Size and Portability
Most pregnancy journals are compact, around 9 by 9 inches, making them easy to carry in a handbag or store on a desk. While some may have more pages or pockets, they remain lightweight and convenient for everyday use.
What to Look for in a Quality Pregnancy Journal
Sections
To effectively track and organise your pregnancy journey, a journal should encompass various sections, such as:
- Health: To document the health of both mother and baby, including medical tests and symptoms.
- Photos: Dedicated spaces for capturing key moments with pictures.
- Checklists: A handy list of tasks to complete before the baby’s arrival.
- Appointments: A section for noting important dates and reminders.
- Milestones: To record significant events like the first kick and delivery date.
- Free Space: Pages for personal expressions and reflections.
- Pockets: Extra storage for keepsakes.
- Tips: Helpful advice for expectant parents.
- Stickers: Fun additions to customise your journal.
Some journals extend their purpose to the first year post-birth, allowing parents to document early family memories.
Page Count
Journals typically range from 74 to 144 pages, with additional pages for stickers if included.
Prompts
Many journals feature prompts that guide parents in documenting their journey, covering topics such as:
- Your pregnancy experiences
- Moments for reflection
- Graphs to assist in choosing a baby name
- Food cravings
- Body changes
- Your hopes for your child
- Memorable occurrences during pregnancy
- Your birth plan
- Baby gift lists
These prompts can be incredibly useful for maintaining focus and will serve as a wonderful keepsake to share with your child as they grow.
Price Range for Pregnancy Journals
Expect to spend approximately £12 for simpler designs, with more comprehensive journals featuring extra prompts and photo spaces costing between £20 and £30.
Pregnancy Journal FAQ
Are there journals specifically for first-time mothers?
A. Yes, many journals are tailored for first-time mothers, featuring specific sections to help create an organised journey and include helpful tips for each trimester.
Are pregnancy journals worth the investment?
A. While not essential, these journals provide a beautiful opportunity for parents to document precious moments, creating lasting memories to cherish.
Can I continue using the journal after giving birth?
A. Some journals include sections for the first year after birth, allowing you to document your experiences and memories with your new baby.
Recommended Pregnancy Journals
Top Pregnancy Journal
Bloom Daily Planners Pregnancy and Baby’s First Year Undated Planner/Journal
Overview: This journal combines creativity and organisation, making it an excellent choice for documenting every precious moment.
Best Value Pregnancy Journal
Studio Oh! Guided Pregnancy Journal
Overview: A colourful option that keeps expecting mothers organised with its decorative sections and ample writing space.
Notable Mention
Pearhead My Pregnancy Journal
Overview: A gender-neutral journal that simplifies tracking key moments with guided prompts, ideal for those who prefer structured journaling.