How to Worry Less About Money During Maternity Leave

If you’re pregnant or already navigating maternity leave, there’s one thing almost no one talks about enough: how weird and wobbly money can feel during this time.

Yes, maternity leave is precious.

But it can also be financially messy, with changes to income, unexpected baby costs, and moments where you wonder if you're keeping on top of it all.

Here’s the good news: You don’t have to get everything perfect.

You don’t need a strict budget or a spreadsheet full of complicated formulas. You just need a gentle, supportive way to feel more in control.

As a Certified Bookkeeper, Money Coach, and Mama of two, I’ve been through it twice. I created the Maternity Money Map because I wish something like it had existed when I was in the thick of it, sleep-deprived, juggling baby feeds, and wondering how to stretch maternity pay.

Let’s walk through some practical, realistic ways you can take the pressure off—and feel a little calmer about money during this season.

1. Don’t wait to “figure it all out”

One of the biggest myths is that you have to have everything planned before maternity leave starts. In reality, it’s okay to start small, even if you’re already weeks (or months) into leave.

Try this:

• Open your online banking app and scan the last week. What surprised you?

• Write down just three upcoming expenses this month (baby-related or not).

• That’s it. Awareness first. No spreadsheets required.

  
  

2. Add a "Baby Buffer"

Even putting aside a few pounds here and there can make a difference.

Start a separate savings pot (or even just a jar on the counter) for baby-related bits: emergency nappies, snacks on-the-go, or those unexpected growth spurts that make all the 0–3 month clothes suddenly useless.

I started with just £2 a week and it felt pointless, until I had enough to cover a week of groceries during a tight month. It matters.

3. Name what matters right now

Maternity leave isn’t the time to "do it all." Instead of focusing on everything you should be saving for, ask: "What do we want our money to help with this month?"

Maybe it’s a cleaner once a fortnight. Maybe it’s setting aside £20 for coffee dates that keep you sane. Maybe it’s making the most of free baby groups instead of buying more toys.

Pick your priorities based on what truly helps you today.

4. Use the “bare minimum money check-in”

When you’re low on time and energy (aka always), a full money review can feel impossible. Instead, try this 10-minute weekly routine:

• What came in? (Maternity pay, benefits, anything else)

• What went out? (Just glance—don’t overthink)

• Any surprises?

• One tiny win to celebrate (even if it’s skipping a takeaway or transferring £1 to savings)

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The Maternity Money Map includes a super simple check-in worksheet to make this even easier.

5. Be kind to yourself when you make a "mistake"

Impulse-bought baby shoes? Subscribed to an app at 3am? You’re not alone.

These things happen. Maternity leave is a wild mix of hormones, love, exhaustion, and adjusting to a whole new world.

No shame. No guilt. Just a reminder that you’re doing your best, and it’s okay to make imperfect money decisions along the way.

Want a Little Extra Support?

If you want to feel calmer, clearer and more in control of money during maternity leave, the Maternity Money Map was made for you.

It includes:

• A week-by-week maternity money roadmap

• Ready-to-use trackers and templates

• Real-life tips that actually work

• Mindset prompts and affirmations to shift money stress

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All for just £7 (less than a coffee & cake).

👉