Why Traditional Baby Shower Gifts Might Be Missing the Mark — And What to Do Instead

Ever felt stuck wondering what to gift a mom-to-be beyond the usual registry list? You're definitely not alone. Recently, an eye-opening article titled Traditional Baby Shower Gifts All Have the Same Problem. There’s a Solution That Doesn’t Require Buying From the Registry. grabbed my attention and changed the way I think about gifts for expecting parents—and maybe it will change yours too.

The crux? Traditional baby shower gifts tend to circle around the same practical items — diapers, clothes, bottles — all great, sure, but do they really cater to the emotional and unique needs of families growing in their own special ways? What if there was a way to offer something that truly honors the journey, especially for those who are navigating fertility challenges or choosing unconventional paths to parenthood?

Here’s where things get interesting. More and more families are turning to at-home insemination kits like those from MakeAMom, an innovative company that offers discreet, reusable kits tailored to various fertility needs. The beauty of these kits is how they empower individuals and couples to take control of their conception journey in the comfort and privacy of home — no clinical appointments, no intimidating procedures.

Think about it: gifted support that directly contributes to the dream of becoming a parent, especially through such accessible means, can be profoundly meaningful. And for friends and loved ones unsure what to gift, this option is not only thoughtful but practical.

So, what makes these kits particularly special? MakeAMom offers three main types to address different fertility hurdles:

• CryoBaby: Designed for those using low-volume or frozen sperm samples.
• Impregnator: Tailored for sperm with low motility.
• BabyMaker: Perfect for users with sensitivities or conditions such as vaginismus.

Beyond their specialized focus, these kits are reusable and come packaged with absolute privacy in mind, which means they're a discreet, cost-effective alternative to disposable options.

I love that the company reports an average success rate of 67% among clients using their systems — truly a beacon of hope for so many navigating the often emotional and uncertain fertility journey. And this success is celebrated quietly, without fanfare, maintaining respect for everyone’s unique experience.

But here’s the real kicker—giving a gift like this isn’t just about the physical product. It’s about the message: “I see your journey. I support your dreams. I believe in you.”

Of course, this kind of gift might not be for every baby shower, but it’s definitely worth considering if you want to step outside the box and offer something that resonates on a deeper level. Plus, for anyone on the receiving end, discovering that kind of support can be uplifting and empowering.

If you’re curious about exploring these options or want to learn more, the MakeAMom website is packed with resources, testimonials, and detailed product information. It’s a great place to start whether you’re considering a gift or thinking about your own fertility options.

In the same vein, the article by Prudie on Slate sparked a much-needed conversation around how we can rethink gifting in ways that truly honor families’ diverse experiences. It's a reminder that sometimes the best gifts are those that come from a place of understanding and empathy—not just tradition.

So, what do you think? Would you consider a gift that supports the fertility journey in such a personal way? Or maybe you’ve already experienced the power of at-home conception kits like MakeAMom’s. I’d love to hear your stories and thoughts in the comments below—let’s keep this important conversation going!

References: - Prudie, “Traditional Baby Shower Gifts All Have the Same Problem. There’s a Solution That Doesn’t Require Buying From the Registry.” Slate, 2025-07-15. Read here.