Pregnancy is a joyous time in many people’s lives, and if you’re lucky, it comes with minor symptoms; in fact, minor symptoms are if you’re extremely lucky. We all know to expect some mild nausea, fatigue, and general discomfort, and for those reasons, some products are game-changers when it comes to staying comfortable throughout your pregnancy. Whether you are currently pregnant or getting ready to try to conceive, keep reading to learn about some essential products that can help ensure the most comfortable pregnancy possible.
Pregnancy Classes
While the internet is always at the tip of our fingertips, and it’s easy to Google every pregnancy symptom, the benefits of taking a pregnancy class cannot be understated. Trained professionals, giving your verbal advice and tips is invaluable. Additionally, pregnancy can be emotionally difficult for both parents or parents who will be raising their baby solo, so connecting with other expectant people in your class and building your tribe is another benefit. They say it “takes a village,” which is 100% true!
Prenatal Vitamins
It’s a given that you want to deliver the healthiest baby possible, but your health is essential too! That’s why taking a reputable and trusted prenatal vitamin while trying to conceive and once you become pregnant is important. The nutrients in these multivitamins can help regulate blood sugar levels in mom-to-be and provide energy, and pregnancy fatigue (especially in the first trimester can be debilitating). Lastly, prenatal vitamins ensure your growing baby gets all the nutrients it needs, even if you’re eating the healthiest diet possible.
Wiggle Pillow
Body pillows come in handy whether you are pregnant or not, but many people don’t realize they exist or know all their benefits until they find themselves in need of one during pregnancy. As your body grows, it becomes increasingly difficult to get the quality sleep your body needs while it nourishes and grows a baby. A Buffy wiggle pillow is designed to wrap around from belly to back and support a pregnant woman’s body in ways conducive to deep, restorative sleep. The great thing about these pillows is their fun, creative shape can still look chic with the right cover, and you’re guaranteed to use them long after the baby arrives everywhere, from your couch to your bed to even on road trips.
Supportive Bra
In the same way, our bodies need support during our pregnancy, and so do our breasts. During pregnancy, you can expect to go up at least one cup size, and your breasts’ growth and new responsibilities can lead to tenderness and discomfort. While you may be shopping for nursing bras for after the baby is born, some women prefer to start wearing them during their second trimester and beyond. No matter your style, you want a soft yet supportive bra that is easy to adjust as you will continue to grow during pregnancy and afterward. If you plan to breastfeed, it’s worth noting that breastfeeding will cause your breasts to grow even more, so investing in several sizes is worth the comfort.
Deeply Hydrating Creams
Pregnancy causes your body to grow and change at a rapid pace, and your skin can suffer if you don’t take precautions to nourish it during this time. While stretch marks are inevitable and should be worn as a badge of honor for creating human life, there is little evidence to show their non-prescription creams for stretch marks even work. Instead, focus on keeping your skin hydrated with a rich cream which will also help with the itchiness and dry skin that is common during pregnancy. Focus the cream on your belly and any other dry patches you develop. Keep in mind some additives are considered unsafe during pregnancy, so avoid creams with retinol, benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, and hydroquinone – when in doubt about your cosmetic products, consult your GP or OB.
There are other products worth mentioning for a comfortable pregnancy, like maternity clothing, books to educate you on the changes you’re experiencing (which can also be comforting during this new chapter), and even a belly band as you near the end as some women struggle with carrying the literal weight of their growing child. Though pregnancy comes with discomfort, the blessing of your healthy baby makes them a distant memory once you meet your child. Congratulations on your pregnancy, and include the above essentials to try and make it the smoothest ride possible.