Navigating the pregnancy journey is often filled with a whirlwind of emotions, experiences, and a seemingly never-ending list of do’s and don’ts. It’s a time of immense joy and anxiety, filled with anticipation, discovery, and preparation. But what if there were ways to make this journey a little less daunting, manageable, and enjoyable? What if a set of ‘game-changers’ could turn the tide in your favor?
In this guide, we’ll uncover many smart strategies, clever tips, and surprising secrets designed to help you navigate the uncharted waters of pregnancy. From mastering morning sickness to find that elusive good night’s sleep, managing pregnancy fatigue, and preparing for the big day, these innovative hacks empower every expecting mom to face the challenges ahead confidently and easily.
Bump pain Hero
As your pregnancy progresses, your bump gets heavier and heavier. And let’s face it, carrying around a bowling ball on your stomach can be seriously uncomfortable and painful, especially if you’re not used to it. But hey, there’s good news! You don’t have to suffer in silence because Kinesio tape is here to save the day!
This amazing taping technique works like magic to instantly relieve pregnancy pain and make your bump feel lighter than it actually is. And guess what? You don’t necessarily need an expert to tape you up. Many helpful online tutorials show you the best ways to apply the tape exactly where you need it most. It’s like having your very own pain-relief coach at your fingertips!
Put Your Mind at Ease When it’s Time to Go to the Hospital
When you’re expecting, your due date might give you a general idea about when your little one is coming. Still, babies have a mind of their own and can arrive unexpectedly. That’s why it’s a smart move to be prepared ahead of time. And one of the best ways to do that is by packing your hospital bag a few months in advance.
Your hospital bag should be stocked with all the essentials, from diapers and baby clothes to formula, covering all the bases and potential scenarios. Trust me, the last thing you want to worry about right after leaving the hospital is rushing to the store to grab what you need. By planning and having your bag ready, you can focus on enjoying those precious moments with your newborn without any unnecessary stress or last-minute errands. It’s a simple step that can make a difference when the big day arrives.
Peppermint Essential Oil
There are a number of ailments that affect pregnant women while pregnant, one being nausea and a second being swelling-induced headaches.
Peppermint essential oil can help ease both when used correctly. The smell itself is soothing for nausea and, when rubbed on the temples, can help lessen headaches. It can also be rubbed on feet to bring down swelling.
The Best Way to Deal With Acid Reflux
Traditionally baking soda is used to clean drains or bake cakes. However, if you are pregnant and suffer from acid reflux, baking soda may be an excellent solution. This is especially true if your doctor does not recommend over-the-counter medication. Baking soda is a natural alternative that doesn’t require any fancy preparation and can be found in any supermarket.
All that’s needed to prepare this remedy is to pour two tablespoons of baking soda into a glass of warm water and then drink. Baking soda will quickly neutralize the acid in your throat, relieving the pain.
This Tip Will Help You Stay on Top of Your Health
When you’re expecting, taking care of yourself becomes a top priority. Remembering important things like doctor’s appointments and taking your medication is crucial, especially when it comes to prenatal vitamins. We all know ‘baby brain’ is real, and you don’t want it messing with your health!
That’s why staying organized is the ultimate hack for managing your pregnancy medication. Investing in affordable pill organizers can be a total game changer. With these handy little organizers, you can easily keep track of what you’ve taken and what you still need to take. No more second-guessing or searching for your medication. Everything is right there, neatly organized, and ready to go. It’s a simple yet effective way to stay on top of your health during this exciting time.
Try Sea Sickness Bands
Sea sickness bands have been very popular with pregnant women in recent years. These sickness bands apply constant pressure to your P6 points. This can help with morning sickness and motion sickness. Morning sickness is characterized by severe nausea.
You might feel the gag reflex become extremely sensitive and want to vomit more. It’s a good idea to always have it with you, because “morning sick” can happen at any hour, not just during the morning hours. It is a normal and regular part of pregnancy.
Feminine Liners to Catch Untimely Leaks
Do you know what’s surprising? Not all women have to wait until their baby is born for their breast milk to come in. Some expecting moms actually start lactating while they’re still pregnant. But here’s the thing: it can get messy if they start leaking through their shirts. And nobody wants that kind of surprise mess! If you want to be ready, keep a few nursing pads in your bag. If you don’t, you can use feminine liners.
You probably already have some feminine liners lying around your house. These thin and discreet liners can absorb leaks, protecting your clothes and keeping you comfortable. Stick them securely in your shirt, and you’re ready. So, if you ever need a quick solution for unexpected leaks, grab those feminine liners and stay worry-free!
Baby’s First Aid Kit
When a baby is on the way, there is a lot of preparation that has to be done. Doors and corners need to be childproofed, rooms need to be painted, and most importantly, all the baby essentials need to be bought. One thing that is very important is a baby first aid kid kit. This kit should contain everything your baby will need for the first year or so of its life.
Baby medicine, antibiotic cream, teething gels, and band-aids are just some of the items you need. Get a Rubbermaid container, and make a list of what’s in the first aid kit and what’s missing. That way, you always know what you have and are prepared for any boo-boo.
Heartburn Remedy
When pregnant, it can be nice to try natural remedies for ailments like heartburn. There are a lot of different foods that can help, but apple cider vinegar has been shown to work wonders.
A small amount of apple cider vinegar, mixed with warm water, can help with the pain of heartburn. You will find out which foods give you heartburn and can avoid them in the future. If that doesn’t work, antacids recommended by your doctor can also be taken.
Beware the “pregnancy brain”: Don’t Miss Any of Your Daily Tasks
The entire human body is affected by pregnancy. Even the brain is affected by pregnancy. When expecting, many mothers experience “pregnancy brain” that causes them to have difficulty thinking clearly and to forget where they placed things.
It’s a good idea to write down everything you need to do every day. This will help you to remember important things. You can’t then forget. These physical reminders, whether you make a grocery list or a to-do checklist, can come in handy when you need them. Don’t undervalue the power of planning.
Use a Squatty Potty
People suffering from constipation love squatty potties. Because constipation often occurs during pregnancy, it makes sense to use squatty potties. Squat urinals can be used to elevate your hips and knees. This position allows you to relax and let your pelvic floor be in a perfect place.
They can be used in any toilet, so you don’t have to worry about their size. Remember that drinking more water, being physically active, and eating a healthy diet are great ways to combat constipation.
Maximize Your Baby Shower with a Thoughtful Registry
Throwing a baby shower is not just an opportunity to celebrate your upcoming bundle of joy; it’s also a strategic way to gather essential items you’ll need for your newborn. Creating a well-planned registry can make all the difference. List out the items you still require, even if it’s as basic as diapers—you can never have too many!
This ensures that your friends and family bring you gifts that are both meaningful and practical. Including baby-specific necessities that you know you’ll need, like a bottle warmer or a diaper pail, can save you a lot of stress and expense down the road. Remember, a baby shower is as much about preparation as it is about celebration.
How To Sleep Safely and Comfortably
Sleeping comfortably during pregnancy can be a real challenge, but knowing the right position to adopt can make a significant difference. While you might think lying on your back is a harmless choice, it’s actually discouraged, particularly during the second and third trimesters. This position can put pressure on the vena cava, a vital blood vessel, which may lead to decreased blood flow to both your heart and your baby.
Sleeping on your stomach becomes increasingly impractical and uncomfortable as your bump grows, not to mention the added pressure it puts on your uterus. The most recommended position is lying on your side, especially your left side. This position improves blood flow to your heart and your baby, while also alleviating pressure on your liver and kidneys, which helps with waste elimination and reduces swelling in your extremities. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice tailored to your specific needs.
Comfortable Sleep During Pregnancy
Pillows are essential for a comfortable night’s sleep during pregnancy. Begin by gathering two or three standard pillows or a single body pillow for your bed. These pillows are not just a comfort, but a necessity for pregnant women seeking a good night’s rest. Before climbing into bed, arrange these pillows with the help of someone, ensuring you have adequate support and comfort. A body pillow is particularly useful; it can be positioned along your back when you’re lying on your side, or embraced for additional support.
Additionally, placing a pillow between your knees or under your belly can significantly reduce pressure on your back and legs. This practice is vital for maintaining comfort and preventing discomfort. For enhanced support, consider investing in a specialized long body pillow, designed to fit between your legs. This type of pillow is specifically crafted to support your hips, a crucial aspect of comfort during pregnancy. Stores dedicated to maternity care often offer a variety of these pillows, catering to the unique needs of expecting mothers.
Sleeping Positions in Early Pregnancy
In the first few weeks of pregnancy, it’s safe to sleep on your back. This position doesn’t pressure the vena cava, the vein that carries blood to the heart, since the uterus is still small. To enhance comfort, place a pillow under your thighs, allowing your legs to relax naturally to the sides. This helps ease lower back tension.
Although there were concerns about back sleeping increasing the risk of stillbirth, recent studies have shown this risk to be very low. However, from the second trimester, avoid this position to prevent nausea, dizziness, and reduced oxygen to the baby.
Tips to Prevent Stretch Marks While Pregnant
I’ve concocted the perfect solution to avoid stretch marks during pregnancy. All you need are three products, which you can apply once a day starting at 8-12 weeks of pregnancy. As you grow bigger and itchier, increase it to twice a day. I gained 60 lbs while pregnant and didn’t get a single stretch mark!
First, apply body skin lotion for tight and dry skin of pregnancy on your stomach, inner and outer thighs, love handles, and breasts. Next, use cocoa butter oil in the same areas as before. Finally, apply cocoa butter conditioning body lotion to those areas, and you’re all set!
Invest In A Pregnancy Pillow
Pregnancy pillows might look like body pillows, but they are so much more than that. They have been designed to wrap and conform to the pregnant body. You can easily maneuver the pillow around your body to find a comfortable sleeping position. The pillow will support your legs and your belly while you rest.
When the baby comes, they are also a great pillow for napping together. You can find the perfect pillow on a variety of online shopping outlets. Make sure to buy some different pillowcases; otherwise, you may get dirty on laundry day.
What to Avoid for Safety and Health
During pregnancy, it’s essential to prioritize safety and health. Extreme sports should be avoided due to the high risk of injury. Likewise, raw fish and meat can carry bacteria and parasites that are especially harmful during pregnancy, so they are best left off the menu. Procedures like LASIK eye surgery are also not recommended due to the potential for hormonal fluctuations affecting vision correction.
Care should be taken with skincare products, as certain ingredients may not be safe for use during pregnancy. Unpasteurized cheeses and juices can harbor listeria and other bacteria, posing a risk to both mother and child. Some herbs and supplements, unless specifically recommended by a healthcare provider, should be avoided as they can affect fetal development. Medical X-rays, alcohol consumption, and exposure to high temperatures in hot tubs or saunas are also on the list of things to avoid to ensure the health and safety of both the expectant mother and the baby.
Stand Tall and Comfortable
Maintaining good posture during pregnancy is not just about standing straight; it’s about comfort and support. As your baby grows, your center of gravity shifts, which can lead to a strain on your back. Stand proud with shoulders back and aligned, and hold your head up high.
It’s beneficial to use supportive footwear and to stand with your feet slightly apart to balance better. This can alleviate some of the pressures and pains associated with pregnancy. A strong, well-aligned posture helps in reducing backaches and prepares you for carrying your growing baby.
Soothing Massage for Pregnancy
Finding a comfortable position for a massage during pregnancy can be a challenge. For the best experience, side-lying positions are often recommended. They provide support to your body and allow the masseuse to reach your back without putting any pressure on the belly.
Using pillows for extra support can enhance your comfort, making it a relaxing experience for both you and the baby. Regular massages can help relieve common pregnancy discomforts like backaches and leg cramps. Always ensure you’re visiting a certified therapist who specializes in prenatal massage to guarantee the safest and most soothing experience.
Coconut Oil
If you are worried about getting stretch marks on your skin, then you should invest in some high-quality coconut oil. Each morning and evening, you should rub coconut oil into the skin on your belly.
This will help your skin to stretch and should aid in the reduction of stretch marks. Coconut oil itself is quite natural and is often used as a moisturizer by those that aren’t pregnant.
Comb for Comfort: Labor Pain Management
In the throes of labor, any form of pain relief is welcome. A surprisingly simple method involves using a hair comb to apply pressure to the hands. Gripping the comb so that the teeth press into the palm stimulates acupuncture points, which can distract from labor pains.
This technique can activate the body’s natural pain relief mechanisms, providing a non-invasive way to cope with contractions. It’s a cost-effective and drug-free method that some find beneficial for managing discomfort during childbirth. Always consult with your healthcare provider about pain relief options to ensure they’re safe for your particular situation.
Ease the Pressure
Frequent trips to the bathroom are a common reality for expecting moms, but they don’t have to be uncomfortable. To make things easier, make sure you’re sitting in a relaxed position, with your feet flat on the ground. This can help relieve some of the pressure on your bladder and make the process a bit less stressful.
Also, consider keeping yourself hydrated with water throughout the day, which is important for both you and the baby, and can actually help reduce water retention and minimize bloating. Remember, this is just a temporary phase, and it’s perfectly normal. Stay comfortable, stay hydrated, and keep smiling through it all.
Homemade Essential Oils
Making plant-based essential oil at home is a gentle, natural way to enjoy the benefits of aromatherapy, especially during pregnancy. Start by choosing safe plants like lavender or chamomile, known for their calming properties and safety for expectant moms. Mix these plants in a clean jar with a carrier oil, such as almond or coconut oil. Let the mixture sit in a warm spot for a few weeks, shaking it daily. This process infuses the oil with the plant’s essence, creating a soothing, aromatic relaxing oil.
Use your homemade oil for massages, adding a peaceful scent to your space or as a skin moisturizer. Remember, a little goes a long way, and a patch test on the skin is always a good idea to check for allergies. Making essential oil can be rewarding to support comfort and well-being during pregnancy. These are the targets for GO – start tomorrow.
Comfortable Maternity Wear
Embracing the baby bump in style and comfort is essential during pregnancy. Look for maternity dresses made from soft, stretchable fabrics that provide ample room for growth and movement. A wrap dress or an empire waist design can flatter your changing shape while ensuring you feel at ease.
These styles are not only practical as your body changes but also versatile enough to be dressed up or down. Incorporating items that grow with you avoids the need for constant new purchases, making it a budget-friendly and stylish choice during pregnancy.
Soothing Juice for Morning Sickness
Battling morning sickness can be a daunting aspect of pregnancy, but a glass of homemade juice can be your ally in soothing an upset stomach. Consider crafting a gentle blend of fruits with a hint of ginger, which is known for its nausea-relieving properties. Freshly made apple or pear juice mixed with a small amount of ginger can offer a refreshing and stomach-settling drink.
It’s important to listen to your body and choose ingredients that are appealing to you. Keep your juices simple, natural, and free of harsh acids, which means skipping citrus fruits if they trigger your nausea. Enjoy this soothing beverage as a tranquil start to your day or whenever you need a calm moment.
Dates For Delivery
Some families swear by an old idea that eating dates can aid in delivery. These sticky sweet fruits can supposedly be used to induce labor. About six of these a day, eaten a week or so leading up to the due date, can aid in the process and ensure on-time delivery.
We’re not sure if this is true, but your doctor will be able to advise you on whether or not eating dates is a good option for your pregnancy.
Secret Snack Stash
You never know when you are going to be hungry. That’s why it’s important to have a secret snack stash in your vehicle, desk, or home. You can fill up each stash with all of your favorite snack foods, like pretzels and crackers.
Having some electrolytes is also a good idea, as staying hydrated is also very important.
Ginger Beer
Ginger has been used as a natural anti-nausea medicine for thousands of years. When you’re pregnant nausea might be something you feel quite often. Ginger beer or ginger ale contains real ginger, and the carbonation in the soda water can work to calm your stomach down.
You should always have a case of this in the fridge for when you need it most.
Frozen Grapes
Feeling overheated is a very normal thing when pregnant. Finding solutions to stay cool can be tough, but a great one is freezing grapes. A frozen grape acts like a tiny popsicle, but doesn’t contain any added sugars.
Eating these will be better than drinking a sugary drink, even if it is ice cold. Frozen grapes will cool you down.
Try Before You Buy
With so many different baby products to choose from, it can be hard to know what to buy. Most companies that make baby products provide free samples. All you need to do is sign-up on their website or ask at a baby store.
That way you can try out some different products before buying them in bulk, and know for sure that you like them.
Make A Birth Plan
Being pregnant is a magical time for a lot of women. However, 9 months can fly by and before you know it, it’s time to give birth.
It’s important to create a birth plan for yourself or in conjunction with a partner. Discuss where you want to have the baby, what methods you want to use, and make sure your doctor is aware of your plan.
Take A What To Expect Class
For first-time moms, it can be hard to know what to expect when you’re expecting. That’s why classes that teach you how to care for your newborn, give birth, and anything else you might want to learn are important.
You and your partner or a friend can take these together and be as educated as possible before your little one arrives.
Goodbye Toxins
Most pregnant women know that there are certain foods they are not supposed to eat, along with some drinks. Alcohol should never be consumed while pregnant, and certain foods like blue cheese and some fish should not be eaten.
These can cause some developmental issues for the unborn baby, which can be avoided if a pregnant mom is aware of what they should be eating and drinking.
Don’t Use Certain Cleaners
Life doesn’t stop when you are pregnant. Chores still need to get done, and regular house cleaning needs to occur. There are some cleaners that produce toxic fumes, like bleach which should be avoided.
This is a good time to switch to natural cleaners, which don’t contain any hazardous chemicals. Products that contain essential oils, vinegar, and anything else that occurs in nature are excellent choices.
Embrace The Inner Tube
Once you reach the third trimester, finding a comfortable position to sleep in can be hard. Sleeping on your stomach is almost impossible unless you use an inner tube. While inner tubes are usually used for floating in a pool, they can actually be used to have a nap by pregnant women.
The hole perfectly fits a pregnant belly, and you can have a quick cat nap on your stomach that way.
No More Heavy Lifting
Heavy lifting is hard on anybody, but when you’ve got a baby on board, you need to be extra careful. Depending on how far along you are in your pregnancy, you need to be very careful with any lifting that you do.
The rule of thumb is that if it would be too heavy when not pregnant, it’s definitely too heavy to lift now. Always ask for a helping hand from a friend or partner.
Track Your Weight
Being pregnant is a time to indulge in all of the foods that you crave, but there is such a thing as overindulgence and underindulgence.
You should track your weight gain throughout pregnancy to ensure that you are gaining the appropriate amount; most women should gain around 25 to 35 pounds while pregnant. Women who under indulge may have babies with lower birth weights.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
One of the things that comes with being pregnant is swollen feet, especially if it is the summer. That’s why it’s important to hit the store, and pick up some shoes and sandals that can accommodate swelling feet.
Your whole body will thank you for choosing them, even if they are not the most stylish shoes in the world.
Get Energized With Fruit
Eating a lot of food with refined sugar is not the best of ideas. It can make your blood sugar level jump, and then plummet very quickly which leads to fatigue.
One way to enjoy sugar is to eat healthy foods with naturally occurring sugars in them. Fruit is the best for this, so grab a bowl of strawberries and start snacking.
Slather On The Sunscreen
For women who are pregnant in the summer months, it might be tempting to get a nice tan. However, while pregnant, skiing becomes much more sensitive to the sun.
This means that sunburns will become more frequent, and dark spots called chloasma might begin to pop up on your face. Always put on sunscreen when hitting the beach or simply running errands.
Nursing Bras
For women who decide to nurse, you may want to invest in a few nursing bras before you have your baby. These bras are designed with comfort in mind, and the lack of underwire makes them more like sports bras.
The best part is that when you do give birth, you won’t need to reinvest in more bras for nursing because you’ve already got them.
A Reclining Chair
Just because you are pregnant doesn’t mean you need to be uncomfortable. Reclining lawn chairs are some of the most inexpensive and best chairs for women in the family way.
The mesh insert molds to your pregnant body, and you recline it as much or as little as you would like. It’s great for women with swollen feet who need to elevate them.
Yoga Poses
Being pregnant puts a strain on your body in places that you aren’t used to. Back pain, leg pain, and all sorts of other pains might occur. That’s why practicing yoga is important during this time. Many yoga poses are designed to be practiced by pregnant women, and they can help ease some of the tension felt in limbs.
It’s also a good way to practice mindfulness and destress during this time. This is a good practice to continue post-giving birth. Before you begin your yoga regime, you should consult your physician to ensure this is the right exercise for your body.
Stay Hydrated
It is recommended that both pregnant and non-pregnant people drink 8 cups of water a day. Staying hydrated is very important, as your body needs the water to function at an optimal level. When you’re pregnant you are drinking water for two, which makes it even more important to drink at least 8 cups of water on a daily basis.
Up to ten cups are considered okay as well. You will know if you need to be drinking more water if you find that your skin is very dry. Water can also be found in other sources like natural juice.
Invest In Sports Bras
Maternity bras can be hit or miss. Some are quite comfortable, while others can be stylish. However, they don’t suit the needs of every pregnant mom-to-be, which is where sports bras come in.
Sizing up gives you room to grow, and you can continue wearing them after you’ve had your baby. In addition to that, they can also be used as a bikini top once the summer rolls around. They are very versatile.
The Gopher
As soon as you reach that third trimester, bending down to pick something up will become almost impossible. That is where the gopher comes in. These poles with a grip on the end can be used to pick up water bottles, dropped socks, and anything else you might need.
They are great for a day spent at home when you don’t have your partner or a family member to help you stay comfortable. You might even want to use these after you’re pregnant; they’re that convenient.
Handicapped Parking Spots
Walking long distances can become a bit difficult as you approach the nine-month mark. A lot of people don’t know this, but the handicapped parking spots at grocery stores are also considered to be pregnancy parking spots.
Hospitals will actually have spots designated with signs for pregnant women. Don’t be afraid to use a handicapped parking spot next time you go shopping; they’re there to help you too. Double-checking this with your city government will confirm this.
Potato Chips Are A Cure All
Morning sickness is a reality for most pregnant women. It can make keeping food down pretty tough and eating even harder. Potato chips have been shown to be one of the only foods that women experiencing morning sickness can eat.
The salt seems to help. If you can eat some chips without feeling poorly, a piece of toast should be next. Trying to eat nutritious food is always the best choice, although sometimes you need to eat whatever does not make you ill.
Dermoplast It Away
Shaving is one of those things a lot of women opt to do, even while pregnant. Sometimes some rashes and itchy spots pop up after shaving in hard-to-reach places. That is where Dermoplast comes in.
It comes in an aerosol container, which means you can simply spray it on some razor burn or an area that you can’t reach with an itch. If you still need a bit of help, you can direct your partner where to spray!
A Tonic Foot Bath
Swollen feet are a reality for most pregnant women. Your body begins to retain a lot of water, and if you don’t keep your feet up, they will swell. A great way to bring the swelling down is by soaking your feet in a bowl of tonic water.
The best time to do this is right before bed, as the tonic water should bring the swelling down just enough to be comfortable. You can soak your feet at any time during the day if walking becomes too uncomfortable.
Frequent But Smaller Meals
You and your baby will both benefit from good nutrition. Your trimester will determine the feeding and care needs of your baby. Remember that nausea can be exacerbated by eating on empty stomachs. You can reduce nausea by eating smaller meals more often than three large meals.
Eating a diet high in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low-fat or fat-free milk products, and protein foods is always a good idea. You should avoid foods and drinks high in sodium, saturated fat, or added sugars during pregnancy.
Always Keep Some Bedside Snacks
Saltine crackers and bread are good choices for breakfast. Saltine crackers are high in sodium bicarbonate which helps with digestion and nausea. Healthy snack options can satisfy your cravings and provide the energy you need.
You can also consider light cereals, dairy snacks, low-fat crackers with cheese or fruit, and low-fat yogurt and toast with apple butter. You should wait at least an hour before you go to bed. These healthy pregnancy foods can be quickly absorbed so that your stomach and you can rest.
Try to Avoid Greasy And Spicy Food
Avoid spicy and fatty foods if you are suffering from morning sickness. Hormones are a key part of pregnancy. They can cause cravings to be more intense than when you were not pregnant.
This type of food isn’t strictly prohibited during pregnancy. However, it can cause nausea in some women. It can be hard to adjust to a new diet during pregnancy. However, it is essential to pay attention to how certain foods affect you as they are different for everyone.
Begin Applying Stretch Mark Creams
One of the most common effects of pregnancy is skin changes such as stretch marks and stains. Use a moisturizing oil or cream for stretch marks as soon as you are pregnant. Do not wait until your stretch marks begin to appear. Use the ointment to apply liberally on your stomach, breasts, and hips.
You should take time to pamper your body during this stage. There are many creams available. These creams can be an excellent way to care for your skin and will make you feel great.
Maternity Bands For Your Belly
These extender bands are used by many pregnant women to transform their favorite pants into maternity jeans. Belly bands are used during pregnancy to support the abdomen and lower back. Active pregnant women may find these stretchy support garments beneficial, particularly in the second and third trimesters.
The type of support you choose can make it possible to wrap your abdomen and hips tightly after giving birth. If you feel insecure, you don’t have to change your wardrobe during pregnancy. However, this trick will allow you to still wear your favorite pants.
Technology is Your Friend
The technology could prove to be very beneficial during pregnancy. Many smartphone apps can provide valuable information to pregnant women. The WebMD Pregnancy app is one example. It allows you to track your baby’s progress and monitor what happens during different stages of pregnancy.
Interactive photos of your baby’s growth can be viewed, along with blood pressure and weight tracking. You can also keep track of how many kicks he has received. Another way technology can be helpful in your daily life is through pregnancy apps.
Use a Pregnancy Planner
A pregnancy calendar or journal can help you keep your eyes on your pregnancy while also allowing you to record your progress and milestones. These journals can help you schedule doctor appointments and create a birth plan.
After your pregnancy test results are positive, you may feel like nine months is an extended period. But, before you know it, those months have gone by quickly, and you feel pressure to do everything. The organizer function can help you stay on track. A journaling feature is also a great option!
Start Early
There are many things to do, from preparing the nursery, purchasing the baby’s necessities, and organizing the house for the baby’s arrival. You can start organizing your tasks systematically so that you don’t get overwhelmed during the third trimester.
Awareness of any early labor signs in the third trimester is important. If you have any questions, contact your doctor. You will have your baby in no time. Get as much sleep as possible while you check off things on your third-trimester list. Anxiety is normal. Take your time and enjoy the process.
Wear Your Favorite Bras
As your body changes, you may find it difficult and uncomfortable to wear the same bras you did in the past. You can keep wearing them by adding a bra extender to the back. This will increase the size of your bra, which means that as you grow, so can your bra.
It’s a great way to keep wearing what you love and save money by not purchasing more maternity underwear. A bra extender is only a couple of dollars.
Popsicles For The Win
Some women get morning sickness for many months, which can make eating and staying hydrated difficult. Popsicles are a great way to get some much-needed fluids and vitamins.
These can be made from natural fruit juices, and some added vitamins to ensure mom is getting what she needs. As well, popsicles are good for nausea and can help with some of the symptoms of morning sickness. It’s important to always have some of these in the freezer.
Ask For Help
Pregnant or not, we all have to-do lists. When you’re pregnant, there are often a lot of things you need to get done, but it would be easier with help. As soon as a friend or family member asks if you need anything, choose an item off your to-do list or simply hand over the list.
That way, your family will know exactly what you need help with rather than working on something you don’t need.
Fight Morning Sickness
Morning sickness is a part of being pregnant for most women. There are a lot of different remedies to fight it, but one of the best is the motion sickness band.
You slide one on to your wrist, right over a pressure point. This should help to decrease that nauseous feeling that many women feel.
Candied Ginger
Anything that contains ginger tends to be excellent for calming an upset stomach. Women who still feel a bit nauseous should consider purchasing some yummy candied ginger.
Simply sucking on it or chewing it slowly will release the calming effects needed to ward off nausea associated with morning sickness.
Be Careful Around Cats
A lot of people own pets, especially cats. These feline friends make great companions, but they can carry a parasite, which causes a disease called toxoplasmosis. This can negatively affect the health of expectant mothers, so they should avoid changing the kitty litter.
If you have to change litter, and you are pregnant, then wear gloves always, as it tends to be passed to humans that way.
Belly Warmer
A lot of clothes will fit at the beginning of a pregnancy, but once the second trimester starts, that might begin to change. A great way to keep wearing the clothes you love is by converting an old camisole into a belly warmer.
This goes around the base of your stomach and keeps your belly covered if your shirt is not too short. Having some belly bands in a few different colors is a good idea for mixing and matching.
How to Manage Massive Pregnancy Swelling
If you also have swelling, be sure to see your doctor and discuss your swelling in order to develop a course of action specific to your health situation. There is swelling, and then there is preeclampsia and pregnancy edema. Here are a few recommendations to manage the edema (trapped fluid in the tissue of your body.).
Feet up whenever possible. Try to follow a low-sodium diet. Cut as much salt as possible; it only makes the swelling worse. Get a good pair of comfy foam shoes in a size or two bigger than you are. Get regular foot baths. After you have your baby, the swelling will start to reduce naturally. Before doing any of this, talk to your doctor to see what is best for you in your own particular case.
Cooling neck wraps
Neck wraps can be a great relief for pregnant women on hot summer days or during hot flashes. They have polymer beads inside that absorb moisture from the water.
Wet the wrap for a few minutes, so the gel beads get bigger with water. Let the excess water drip off and wear it around your neck for a cooling effect.
Harem Pants
Worn by backpackers around the world, harem pants are actually the perfect maternity pants. They come in a wide array of colors and designs, all while being relatively inexpensive.
On top of that, the stretchy waistband allows for a growing baby in all trimesters. You can even keep the harem pants after you give birth, as they tend to fit in any size. These are well worth a trip to the store and are an investment.
Cut a hole in a floatie
Summertime can be a hard time for heavily pregnant women. They can’t find comfortable positions on which to rest, and the belly can start making sleeping difficult.
If you want to jump into the pool, cut a hole on the floatie so you can lounge in the water on your stomach. It’ll give you a break for the heavy belly.
Stay Strong With Vitamins
Most doctors will prescribe prenatal vitamins to expectant mothers. These are designed to give you and your baby all of the vitamins and nutrients needed to promote health and growth.
A lot of other vitamins and nutrients can be found in foods, but sometimes some extra vitamins are needed. Your doctor may suggest that you add some calcium, magnesium, and Vitamin D supplements to your diet. This is to keep your bones strong, and your body healthy.
Belly Bands
Just like weightlifters, pregnant women can benefit from wearing a belly band to help ease some of the weight on their backs. For women who experience hot flashes during pregnancy, you can add an ice pack underneath the band at the front or the back.
This will help you cool down, especially if you are pregnant in the summer. You just need to ensure that there is a t-shirt or a piece of cloth between you and the ice pack.
The Hair Tie Trick
Before you go out and buy a bunch of jeans with elasticized waistbands, consider trying this quick trick. Take a hair tie, and loop it through the front hole on your jeans. The loop can be placed over the button. As your belly expands, so will the elastic.
This will allow you to wear your jeans for longer, and possibly save some money on maternity wear. Eventually, you will need to buy some bigger pants though.
Cool Down With A Frozen Bra
Just as Marilyn Monroe did in The Seven Year Itch, you should consider dampening your bra and placing it in the freezer. On a hot summer day, one of the best ways to cool down is through frozen underwear.
Bras often have thick fabric and padding that can be frozen quickly. As it unfreezes it will act to bring your body temperature down, and provide some much needed relief if you don’t have air conditioning.
Grab An Exercise Ball
Staying in shape while you’re pregnant is important, and one of the best ways to do this is with an exercise ball. Select a doctor approved exercise ball regimen, and get used to bouncing around, and stretching out all of your muscles.
When it comes time to go to the delivery room, you may find that your delivery goes more smoothly. Just be sure to only do exercises that your doctor has signed off on.
Drink Electrolytes
Some pregnant women suffer from morning sickness for the majority of their pregnancies. It can make it very hard to stay hydrated, which is why adult electrolytes are an amazing invention. You drink electrolytes like Gatorade when you are ill, so it makes sense that you would drink them when you have morning sickness.
Just make sure to ask your doctor how much you can safely drink to avoid overindulging. Everybody is different, and your doctor will know what is best for your pregnancy.