When to start wearing a pregnancy necklace

Short answer: Most women start wearing a harmony ball around the fifth month, between weeks 18 and 20, once the bump shows. There is no rule. You can wear it from the first scan, on special days, or only in the third trimester.

The traditional answer

Tradition says to start wearing a harmony ball around the fifth month, which is somewhere between weeks 18 and 20. By then the bump usually shows, so the pendant has something to rest on, and many people link the timing to the point when a baby starts to react to sound. Treat it as a custom, not a rule.

Earlier or later is fine

Some women put theirs on after the first scan, or on the day they tell the family. Others save it for the third trimester, or for special days only. Because the necklace is a keepsake, the right moment is whenever it means something to you.

Think about the chain

Your bump will change a lot. A chain that suits you at 20 weeks may sit awkwardly at 36. Look for an adjustable chain or an extension, and lengthen it as you grow. If the pendant pulls on your neck, lengthen it.

How long to wear it each day

As long as you like. Many women wear it all day and take it off to sleep, because a long chain can tangle in the night. If it chimes more than you would like at work, tuck it under a jumper or save it for evenings.

After the birth

Many women keep wearing theirs, and others put it away. Read what to do with a pregnancy necklace after the birth, and note the points on safety around babies.

Questions people ask