These gifts were usually given at the time of the baby's baptism or debut. According to Baby Shower History, in the late 19th century, Victorian ladies began having teas for expectant moms, usually after the baby was born and began sending unique Baby Shower Invitations.
In those days women who were pregnant did not appear in public. In the early 20th century, the teas transformed into "showers", based on the "showering" of the mothers who were expecting before the birth of their child, according to History Baby Shower. It was during this time that umbrellas became symbol of showers because it was customary for ladies to carry parasols when they attended these gatherings.
The Origin Baby Shower has it that it was not until the middle of the 20th century that guests were invited to the house of the mom-to-be before the baby was at least a month old. This was mainly because of the fear of diseases being transmitted to the child. In the past, the new mother would send invites to only her closest friends to celebrate the birth of her new baby.
At this time it was considered presumptuous to hold a shower before the child was born, and is still the case in some cultures. With few exceptions, all gifts were handmade except for the silver that was given to the baby by their grandmothers. In today's world, the baby shower is a customary celebration and not to mention great fun, especially for first time mommies, regardless of whether it is a Coed Baby Shower, Couples Baby Shower, Surprise Baby Shower or any other from the Baby Shower Themes.
Over time, old traditions have relaxed, allowing for the people to begin throwing Couples Baby Showers in which men are invited, and celebrations in the workplace that co-workers can attend. It is no longer a custom to wait until the baby is born, unless the mother-to-be prefers this option.
A Baby Shower Party can range from very a casual to elegant event, depending on the mood you want to set! BabyShowers are now held at bars, restaurants, country clubs, churches or someone's home and usually last only a few hours. It is customary for the Mommy-to-Be to receive baby gifts from her guests.
All of these events serve some type of food, ranging from a meal or light refreshment , to one that is very expensive and elaborate. The party is not about who can spend the most or impress their guests, but who can create a memorable time for everyone with great friends and have lots of fun and laughs. This has always been the point of showers baby as told by History Baby Shower.
When mothers have any child that is after the first then it is referred to as a "sprinkle baby shower".
There's lots more details regarding Baby Showers, including the History Baby Shower which will be of interest to you!