Pregnancy is a beautiful yet intense experience. I truly loved being pregnant with both of my babies, but that doesn't mean I didn't have my fair share of not-so-fun symptoms.
Your body changes so often throughout those nine months and I want to help you navigate these changes with comfort and ease!
So I've compiled a trimester-by-trimester guide of must-have items. From morning sickness relief in the first trimester (which I DEFINITELY needed both times) to preparing for birth in the third trimester, here's what I've loved and what I hope can support you too.
All links in the blog post are affiliate links, which means I make a percentage off your purchase at no additional cost to you.
First Trimester
1. Morning Sickness Relief
Increasing B6 vitamins, in addition to taking Unisom, has been shown to reduce morning sickness in some expectant moms due to the deficiency of this vitamin relating to nausea. Essential oils, such as lemon, can also help combat nausea and vomiting. I like to add a few drops to an aromatherapy necklace!
2. Electrolytes
Staying hydrated is crucial, especially if morning sickness is a challenge. Electrolyte-replenishing drinks or powders can help maintain hydration and nutrient levels. It's also great to drink if plain water sounds unappetizing! I LOVE these electrolyte packs and you can get a free sample pack with my link!
3. Comfy Underwear Set
Your body starts changing early on. Investing in a comfortable, breathable underwear set that can accommodate these changes makes a world of difference. Grab the bra here and the underwear here! Not to mention this set is perfect for those bump photos so you can watch your changing body.
4. Baby Registry Checklist
Start planning early with a comprehensive baby registry checklist. It ensures you don’t miss any essentials for your and your baby’s needs! I have put together the perfect registry checklist for your first baby or subsequent babies! These are the exact checklists that I used during my first pregnancy and am using currently in preparing for my baby boy!
5. Hypnobirthing Class
Consider enrolling in a hypnobirthing class or listening to this book to prepare mentally and physically for birth. These classes offer relaxation and pain management techniques beneficial for pregnancy and labor. This was CRUCIAL in helping me achieve my epidural-free hospital birth with my first and preparing for my home birth with my second!
Second Trimester: Growing Comfortably
1. Pregnancy Pillow
As your belly grows, finding a comfortable sleeping position becomes challenging. A pregnancy pillow can provide the support you need for a good night’s sleep.
2. Comfy Leggings and Stretchy Tops
Your comfort is crucial as your body expands. Invest in high-quality, stretchy leggings and tops that grow with you. These leggings are a favorite of mine (and they have pockets)!
These maternity tank tops are great for summer or layering in the colder months!
3. Belly Balm
To soothe and hydrate your stretching skin, use a natural belly balm. This belly balm is PERFECT and has helped me avoid stretch marks with both of my pregnancies. Use code JESSICA for 10% off your first purchase!
4. Heating Pad
For backaches and sore muscles, a heating pad can offer some great relief. Always check the temperature settings and consult with your healthcare provider for safe use.
5. Exercise Ball
An exercise ball is an amazing tool for stretching your body and preparing for birth.
6. Lubrication
Hormonal changes may affect your natural lubrication. A water-based lubricant can enhance comfort during intimate moments! Always look for a non-toxic option like this one.
7. My New Mom Bundle of Checklists
Stay organized and prepared with a bundle of checklists tailored for new moms. This resource is invaluable for keeping track of everything from registry checklists, birth prep, hospital bag essentials, postpartum care and so much more.
Third Trimester: Preparing for Arrival
1. Red Raspberry Leaf Tea
Known for toning the uterus and preparing it for labor, red raspberry leaf tea is one of my favorite ways to prepare my body for the birth that is coming! It's a super easy add to your routine and you can make it hot, iced, with honey, etc.!
2. Magnesium Lotion
To help with sleep quality, leg cramps, and overall relaxation, consider using a magnesium-infused lotion before bed. This can be such a lifesaver for those middle-of-the-night leg cramps that plague expectant moms in the third trimester. Use code JESSICA for 10% off your first purchase!
3. Homeopathic Pain Relief
For natural pain management options, homeopathic remedies can offer gentle relief. Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment.
4. Dates
Consuming dates in the weeks leading up to your due date may facilitate cervical dilation and reduce the need for labor induction, according to some studies. There are so many ways to consume them, even if you don't like their taste or texture. They are a great addition to smoothies, you can grind them up to add to yogurt or cereal, and there are even recipes to make them savory!
5. Birth Plan
Creating a birth plan will help you communicate your preferences for labor and delivery. My customizable birth plan PDF is what I used with my first birth and it made a world of difference in communicating with all the providers present while I labored and birthed.
6. Rebozo Shawl
A rebozo shawl is a versatile, woven wrap used for comfort, support, and relaxation during pregnancy and labor. It can help in various positions to ease discomfort!
7 & 8. Revisiting the Exercise Ball and Pregnancy Pillow
These items remain essential in the third trimester for comfort, relaxation, and labor preparation. Continue using them to support your body as you near the end of your pregnancy journey.
Do you feel prepared?
If you're anything like I was with my first pregnancy, you might be overwhelmed with not only how your body is growing and changing but also with all the things you feel you need to do to be prepared for your little one! As I navigated pregnancy and postpartum with my first and as I do so again with my second, I created an entire bundle of EVERYTHING you'll need. From baby registry checklist, what to include in your hospital bag, organizing your nursery and diaper bag, and so much more! I want to help you enter into this new season as stress-free as possible!
Grab the New Mom Bundle now - you will not regret it!
Conclusion
Pregnancy brings its joys and of course challenges, but with the right tools and preparation, you can navigate it with confidence and be prepared for whatever comes with growing your little one. From the essentials that bring relief and comfort to those that prepare you for the beautiful journey of childbirth, these must-haves have supported me throughout my pregnancies and hopefully will support you every step of your pregnancy!
xo,
Jess
L E T ' S B E F R I E N D S!
