Reports suggest that the recent recession gloom looks set to encourage a baby boom in the UK. It seems that while most people are staying in to count the pennies, they are having to find low cost ideas to keep themselves occupied.

Catherine Hanly, editor of raisingkids.co.uk notes that with the purse strings tightened, "People are less likely to go out to expensive restaurants - they're staying at home and watching TV and looking for other forms of entertainment(i)", which, in this case seems to be in the bedroom!

However, with the average cumulative cost of raising a child from birth to the age of 21 estimated at nearing an incredible £200,000(ii), a baby boom is perhaps the last thing one would expect in times of financial uncertainty.

But the sales figures don't lie, stores have seen a sharp rise in spending on folic acid and other nutrients for during pregnancy, as well as a distinct rise in home pregnancy test kit sales.

While the recession may have put a strain on budgets, it needn't impact your choice when it comes to you and your offspring. Simply visit Savers Health & Beauty ‛where the smart recessionista parent shops!', Voted number one for price by the Verdict Consumer Satisfaction Index for UK Personal Care 2009, for a great selection of top name brands at bargain prices that will see parents buying the best for their children but living well within their means.

For those preparing to join the baby boom you can pick up Sanatogen ProNatal Supplements for just £1.99. Sanatogen ProNatal is a scientifically proven multivitamin and mineral formula with folic acid specially tailored for the needs of women planning pregnancy, during pregnancy and whilst breastfeeding. Taken daily, it provides the right levels of folic acid, B12 and other essential vitamins and minerals to help you build a healthy baby and keep you healthy too.

Finding out whether you are expecting is both exciting and nerve wracking. For such a defining moment you want a brand you can trust, but that doesn't mean you need to break the bank. You can pick up a Predictor 1 Pregnancy Test for just £1.99. Easy to use and over 99% accurate you'll have that ever important result in just 4 minutes.

Alternatively for parents who are already feeling the pinch you can pick up Pampers Simply Dry Maxi Nappies (26 pack) for just £2.99 and Johnsons Baby Wipes (64 pack) for a credit crunch busting £1. Amazing brands at even more amazing prices - Savers really is where the smart parent shops.

There are 230 Savers stores throughout England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland so you can pick up all your favourite brands at bargain prices. To find your nearest store visit www.savers.co.uk or call 0800 107 8495.

[i] Jobs gloom leads to baby boom, The Metro, Thursday 30th July 2009.
[ii] Average cost of raising a child nears £200,000, The Guardian, Friday 23rd January 2009.