Pregnant this Christmas? Top tips to avoid the chaos

However big your bump, you’ve got a great excuse for getting others to do the racing around. Here are five tips for acing Christmas without the festive frazzles

We know how important it is to keep stress levels low when you’re celebrating Christmas with a bump. But how you might ask, when Christmas is always so frantic?

#1 Streamline

So, we know you usually buy your mince pies from one shop because they’ve had the best write up.

And you get your turkey from the butchers down the road just because you always have.

And, of course, you hand pick every brussels sprout for optimum freshness and perfect shape.

But… it might be time to reconsider. Maybe for this year at least try sticking to one food shop only.

#2 Be organised

Think about decorating, shopping and guest prep well ahead of time.

Last minute panics are probably the last thing you need right now.

Your blood pressure and sanity will benefit from a little forward planning. Writing lists is definitely the way forward.

#3 Sofa shop

Grab your phone, a comfy spot and get Christmas cracking.

You can avoid the high street stampede in the comfort of your own home.

We’re spoilt for choice with online, next-day delivery and click-and-collect services. Best of all, get someone else to do the collecting if you can.

#4 Don't go wild

This is probably the year to opt out of homemade mince pies, crackers and iced biscuits – unless that’s the relaxing bit for you.

Supermarkets have amazing food on offer these days so you’ll be forgiven for not going the whole (homemade) hog.

Rather than dedicating hours to crafting festive themed treats for all your guests (who probably wouldn’t notice them anyway!) put your feet up and enjoy some me time while you have the chance.

#5 Embrace your special status

Take up every offer of help.

We know pregnancy is not an illness and you are more than capable of getting stuff done. But look after yourself too.

Let people carry your shopping bags, cook Christmas dinner, rub your chilly feet and run you warm baths.

Further information

Our support line offers practical and emotional support with feeding your baby and general enquiries for parents, members and volunteers: 0300 330 0700.

We also offer antenatal courses which are a great way to find out more about birth, labour and life with a new baby.

Make friends with other parents-to-be and new parents in your local area for support and friendship by seeing what NCT activities are happening nearby.