Ask Dr. Helen: Do Husbands Owe Wives Post-Childbirth ‘Push Presents?’
I have heard of giving a “baby present,” but did not hear it called a “push present” except online (I read something about it online previously).
I do not think this is a new thing, because I’ve heard of giving “baby presents” at least fifteen or so years ago, and know a few people who’ve gotten them.
I think it’s a nice idea, as long as it is not “required” and doesn’t come with a price tag that is out of line with the couple’s budget. (someone wrote above that the gift must cost 1-2K. You can find something nice for much less if that is out of budget.)
I thought the aim was that the woman may be feeling out of sorts, run down and tired, may have gained weight, and is now gearing up for late night feedings and all that. A piece of jewelry or something else that may help her feel like a woman again. If you think of it as a reward for producing a baby, it’s tacky. But I think it serves other purposes, and is a tangible expression of joy as well.
My general sense is that cultural rituals serve multiple purposes, and I guess that I thought that this gift was something of a ritual, not a new marketing ploy, and so am inclined to think giving such a present serves constructive purpose.
