This post is all about pregnancy must-haves, essentials, and hacks to help you survive every trimester of your pregnancy!
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I feel I am much more aware of what I truly need versus getting carried away with buying unnecessary things. Isn’t it incredible how easy it is to purchase anything with a simple click? So I promise only to share my top 10 pregnancy must-haves, essentials, and hacks that are worth your hard-earned money if you plan to get pregnant or are currently pregnant.
1. Maternity Clothes
Depending on your preference, you could go without spending money on maternity clothing. I was able to wear most of my regular clothes since my bump was on the smaller side. Regular leggings fit me right up to the due date because they are made of stretchy material. The only things I purchased in the second trimester were three more leggings and two bras, and the good thing is that they are versatile enough that I can still wear them even after pregnancy.
2. Shoes
This is an important topic because our bodies change from our growing baby. The last thing we want is to have shoes that do not provide support. If you have flat feet like me, you understand that flat feet cause alignment issues or improper posture. That is why I highly recommend the brand Asics for tennis shoes. If you click this link, it will take you to their pronation guide so you can find the right type of shoe for you. I am currently using the Gel Kayano 26 or GT-2000 for errands and daily walks. These tennis shoes give me the right arch support and stability. I dont have heel pain or flat feet fatigue since I started using Asics tennis shoes a few years ago.
3. Books and Podcasts
I’m a firm believer that education and knowledge can be life-changing. Reading (or listening!) about pregnancy and childbirth makes it so much easier to understand different options so you and your partner can make better decisions.
I encourage you to read the Supernatural Childbirth book by Jackie Mize. The author points us to the promises of God and the common misconceptions of childbirth. This book completely changed my view, along with the fears and anxiety of birth. My first birth experience was traumatic, and deep down, I didn’t want to have more children for the same reason. I can see how God is walking beside me through my healing journey.
If you’re into podcasts, The Pregnancy & Birth Made Easy is one to add to your list! My midwife recommended this one. And let me tell you… the birth doulas provide great education to prepare your mind and body for birth. I think they do an excellent job of talking about the different holistic options available to pregnant mamas. You can also find a birth course on their website that goes into depth about achieving your best birth.
4. Pregnancy Pillow
I will be completely honest. I thought I wasn’t going to need a pregnancy pillow. Oh boy! was I wrong. The right pillow makes a huge difference for a good night’s sleep. But again, if you already have a straight body pillow, use that or perhaps two regular pillows in between your legs for comfort. Use whatever works for you but please know that pregnancy pillows provide great relief for sleeping discomfort.
5. Exercise Ball
I cannot say enough good things about an exercise ball during pregnancy. I am loving mine because it is more comfortable on the spine and hips than a chair! Besides, they have various uses – such as practicing exercises for helping your baby get into the ideal position for birth and as a ‘birthing ball’ to help reduce pain during labor.
6. Stomach Relief
It is common to experience stomach discomfort during pregnancy, like nausea, vomiting, acid reflux, or heartburn. Below is a list of the pregnancy must-haves for these ailments that worked for me.
- Ginger Hard Candy
- Canada Dry Ginger Ale Soda
- Dentyne Ice Peppermint Gum
- Tums or Pepcid AC
7. Vitamins and Supplements
In case you’re wondering what I’ve been taking for prenatal vitamins and other supplements, check out this post for a full list! I highly recommend the NatureMade Prenatal Multi + DHA; I love that this prenatal vitamin is well-rounded, and you only need one capsule daily (win for me!).
RELATED: First and Second Trimester Recap | Healthy Pregnancy Tips
8. Water Bottle
We know the importance of drinking water and staying hydrated, so I will keep it simple! Sometimes I forget to drink water and noticed that having a water bottle with me actually helped to stay on track. I use this water bottle with markings, and it doesn’t feel too overwhelming to drink water. I actually found it better than keeping track of 8 glasses per day!
9. Skin Essentials
The skin can get itchy during pregnancy, so it is a good idea to find a good moisturizer and/or skin oil. I remember my skin was on the dry side and got worse during the winter. I also highly recommend a face sunscreen because our skin is more susceptible to sun damage and hyperpigmentation. The following items are my top recommendations during pregnancy.
- Elastalift Firm + Lift Collagen Cream
- Palmer’s Tummy Butter
- Gold Bond Radiance Renewal Hydrating Lotion
- SkinCeuticals Physical Fusion SPF 50 Tinted Sunscreen
10. Self-Care
I saved the best pregnancy must-haves for last because who doesn’t love a little pampering. I know I do! In this self-care section, I will list a few activities you can do to give your body some lovin’ care. I tried all of these during my pregnancy, and I found them beneficial in many ways. Don’t neglect yourself!
- Get a Prenatal Massage for stress/muscle tension
- Have a Chiropractic Adjustment (Webster-Certified Chiro)
- Visit a Women’s Health Physical Therapist for pelvic pain
- Practice Relaxation of the mind and body at least once a day (twice in the last month)
- Listen to Pregnancy Guided Meditations and Positive Birthing Affirmations
- Do exercise that you love (walking, elliptical, yoga, pilates)
Keep in mind that everyone’s body is unique, and it is always best to speak with your Midwife or Doctor to find out what will work best for you & your baby.
I hope you found these 10 pregnancy must-haves, essentials and hacks useful! Please let me know in the comments if you would add anything to the list!
Other posts you will like: Third Trimester Recap | Healthy Pregnancy Tips
♥ Blessings!
