When I first started my journey of pregnancy, I felt a mix of emotions—joy, curiosity, and even a little fear.
Every doctor appointment, every kick, and even my steady weight gain told me that life was changing.
Keeping a pregnancy journal became my way of capturing all these little details.
It wasn’t just a notebook—it was my personal memory book, filled with journal prompts, reflections, and milestones.
Today, I treasure it as a keepsake that tells the story of both me and my baby.
If you’re pregnant, thinking of becoming pregnant, or searching for the best pregnancy journal, let me walk you through why this practice is so meaningful and how you can find the perfect journal for your journey.
What is a Pregnancy Journal?
A pregnancy journal is a special type of diary or pregnancy journal book designed to record your nine months of transformation. Think of it as a pregnancy memory book that allows you to:
- Track baby’s development and your changing body.
- Document doctor appointments and medical notes.
- Write letters and messages for your baby.
- Capture emotions and milestones along the way.
Unlike a blank notebook, many pregnancy journals come with journal prompts to help guide you through your reflections. These prompts make it easy to stay consistent and ensure you don’t miss recording important memories.
Why Keep a Pregnancy Journal?
Pregnancy passes faster than you think. The days feel long, but looking back, the months seem like a blur. Journaling helps you pause and reflect. Here’s why it’s worth it:
- Memory Keeper – Record milestones such as your first ultrasound, baby shower, or your pregnancy cravings.
- Track Weight Gain & Health – Note your physical changes, doctor appointments, and weekly progress.
- Emotional Outlet – Processing the ups and downs of pregnancy through writing can be deeply healing.
- Bond with Baby & Family Members – Invite your partner, siblings, or even grandparents to write notes in the journal too.
- A Legacy – Your words become a pregnancy memory book your child can cherish one day.
How to Use a Pregnancy Journal
The beauty of journaling is that there’s no right or wrong way. Here are simple ideas to get started:
- Weekly Reflections – Write how you’re feeling emotionally and physically each week.
- Doctor Appointments – Record what your doctor says, test results, or even questions you want to ask.
- Track Weight Gain – Jot down your progress in a positive way to celebrate your body’s changes.
- Milestones – Capture moments like your first kick, hearing the heartbeat, or your baby shower.
- Letters to Baby – Share your dreams and prayers for your child.
- Photos & Keepsakes – Add bump pictures, ultrasound scans, or even family notes for a collective pregnancy memory book.
Choosing the Best Pregnancy Journal for You
Every mom’s journey of pregnancy is unique, so the journal you choose should reflect your personality and needs.
1. Format
Do you want a structured pregnancy journal book with journal prompts, or a blank notebook to write freely?
2. Design & Keepsake Value
Some journals are minimal, while others feel like heirlooms designed to become a lifelong memory book.
3. Practical Features
Look for sections dedicated to doctor appointments, weight gain, baby’s milestones, and notes from family members.
Best Pregnancy Journals (Reviewed by Moms)
Here are some favorites that moms—including myself—recommend:
1. The Belly Book
- Covers each trimester with guided journal prompts
- Includes sections for photos and doctor’s notes
- Perfect for first-time moms tracking weight gain and milestones
2. Bump for Joy!
- Elegant design with space for baby shower notes and letters to baby
- Acts as a keepsake pregnancy memory book
- Great if you want sentimental prompts
3. Pearhead Pregnancy Journal
- Simple, budget-friendly option
- Includes checklists for doctor appointments and baby prep
- Ideal for moms who want easy consistency
4. Promptly Journals – Childhood History
- Extends beyond pregnancy into childhood years
- A true memory book you can fill with input from family members
- Perfect if you want to document a longer journey
5. DIY Pregnancy Journal
- Use a blank notebook or scrapbook
- Add your own journal prompts, photos, and letters
- Flexible, budget-friendly, and customizable
Tips to Stay Consistent
Many moms start strong but lose track mid-pregnancy. Here’s how I stayed committed:
- Set a Weekly Reminder – Even 10 minutes after each doctor appointment is enough.
- Keep It Visible – Place it on your nightstand as a reminder.
- Use Prompts – Short journal prompts like “What made me smile this week?” keep it simple.
- Involve Family Members – Let your partner or siblings write little notes in your journal.
Where to Buy a Pregnancy Journal
- Amazon – Huge variety, from minimal to deluxe pregnancy journals.
- Etsy – Personalized, handmade options that make stunning memory books.
- Bookstores – Great for simple journals you can start immediately.
- Stationery Brands – Some brands create high-quality, guided journals for pregnancy.
Final Thoughts: Your Story, Your Keepsake
Pregnancy is more than nine months—it’s a story. A story of growth, change, excitement, and love.
Recording your journey of pregnancy through a journal ensures you won’t forget the details—your cravings, your baby shower, your weight gain journey, and even those quiet reflections after each doctor appointment.
Whether you choose the best pregnancy journal on the market or create your own DIY memory book, what matters most is that you’re capturing the story of your child before they even arrive.
Years from now, when you share your pregnancy memories with your child and other family members, you’ll realize what a precious gift your journal truly is.
So, grab a pen, open a journal, and start writing—you won’t regret it.
