Everything Expectant Mums Need During Their Pregnancy
If you are currently pregnant or are planning to become pregnant soon, the chances are you are already aware that you will need some extra bits and pieces to help you through this exciting and emotionally challenging time. New mums especially can find this time particularly challenging; there are so many new things you need to know and unexpected things to learn about in preparation for your baby’s arrival. Not only this, there are also lots of things you will need for your own comfort and wellbeing during this time.
It is easy to get caught up in the excitement of choosing accessories for your baby’s nursery and picking out all those adorable outfits and toys, but mama - you need to get yourself some special stuff too! Many women find that pregnancy, while being miraculous and special, can also be very uncomfortable and frustrating, especially in the later stages as you prepare for the big day.
While it won’t be possible to buy things that will make your pregnancy an entirely comfortable and stress free experience, there are certainly plenty of things you can do to help. Today we’re going to take a look at some of the things you can buy for yourself (or for a pregnant friend or loved one) to make this time a little easier to manage.
Prenatal vitamins and supplements
There is no denying that pregnancy takes a toll on our bodies. The aches and pains that can crop up are one thing, but your pregnancy’s increased demands on your body’s systems are another thing entirely. Because you are effectively growing another human being, your body will be using nutrients, vitamins and minerals differently. Paired with the fact that nausea and cravings can make it harder to get all the nutrients we need from our food during pregnancy, it is recommended that every pregnant person should take prenatal vitamins and supplements.
The main nutrients that expectant mothers should focus on getting enough of are folic acid, calcium, iron, and your regular things like vitamin D, the B vitamins, and vitamin C. These supplements can usually be bought over the counter, though if you are specifically lacking in certain nutrients you may need a prescription from your healthcare provider. Having said this, not every prenatal vitamin or supplement will work with your digestive system (morning sickness and other palatability issues can affect this), so you may need to try one or two options before you find something that works for you.
Maternity clothing
Pregnancy clothing such as maternity pants, jeans, dresses and underwear are all pretty much essential for people who are expecting. Your body will undergo a period of rapid change, and even your favourite, most comfortable sweatpants may quickly start to feel too tight and restrictive.
You will want to focus on getting yourself some clothing that is soft, stretchy, and makes you feel comfortable. There is no need to worry about looking unkempt, though, because maternity clothing these days is fashionable and designed to help you feel like your usual self even as your bump grows.
Treat yourself to a good moisturiser
When your hormones are all out of whack it can be difficult to look after your skin and hair in the same way that you are used to. Dry, itchy skin is a common issue for many people throughout their pregnancies, and stretch marks are another common change that you may have to deal with. First of all, don’t beat yourself up about developing stretch marks, they are a completely natural and normal part of being human and all people of all ages and genders can get them.
That said, you can ease many of your pregnancy skin woes with a soothing, high quality moisturiser. Most gentle moisturisers are suitable for use during your pregnancy but if you’re not sure of anything then it’s always a good idea to check with your healthcare provider to be on the safe side.
Other things you might like to look into are belly support bands which take the weight off your joints, body pillows to give you additional support and comfort while you sleep, a supportive unwired bra or two, and remedies for reflux and other gastric issues that are safe to use during your pregnancy.