I experienced several symptoms during pregnancy, so being comfortable was incredibly important for me! I had food aversions, nausea, sciatica, and swelling. Aside from these symptoms, I wanted to be prepared for having a baby. Listed below are essential items that helped me throughout pregnancy! If you’re looking for a list for postpartum, I’ve got you covered! Read about my postpartum essential items here.
Pregnancy Pillow / Throw Pillows – I got a pregnancy pillow during my first semester because I was having trouble being comfortable while sleeping. I thought it would help. However, it was a bit too big for me at the time, so I waited until the second trimester to use it again. It definitely helped me feel comfortable with a belly bump! I also liked sleeping with something between my legs. This way, my back and hips weren’t uncomfortable.
I used throw pillows while sitting. It allowed me to straighten my back and have a better posture. I liked using these pillows between my thighs as well, during my first trimester, to sleep.
Prenatals and Supplements – Prenatals are important to take while pregnant, so that you and your growing baby are receiving enough nutrients. I took prenatals as well as an iron supplement. I still take them now, after giving birth.
The Bump Baby Tracker App – I loved this app! I used this app the moment I knew I was pregnant. My partner had this app as well, so it was great to track our baby’s development together. I enjoyed the articles on the app too!
Sea-band Mama! Acupressure Wristbands – I loved these and I cannot recommend it enough! I used these throughout my entire pregnancy! I had morning sickness, which lasted for hours. It was to the point where I’d lay on our futon or bed for most of my day. These wristbands were a game changer. Whenever I felt nausea kicking in, I put these on and I was relieved!
I also used these during my labor and delivery process. Once I started to feel contractions, I wore these. I think they helped. I’d use them again in the future!
Comfortable Shoes – I started to swell in my third trimester. I couldn’t believe it, but my shoe size went up twice! I’m around a size six to six and a half. While I was pregnant, I went up to size eight! Luckily, the weather was getting warm so I didn’t need any boots or sneakers. I got mandles! They were easy to slip on and off. They weren’t the cutest, but they did the job.
Lemons or oranges – I carried lemons or oranges, mostly oranges, with me whenever I was out of the house. This was during my first trimester. I loved having these with me because it helped block out any unfavored smells. I had a heightened sense of smell and if I didn’t react kindly to one, I’d grab an orange to smell. Oranges were nice to have to eat as a snack too!
Hydroflask – I drank a lot of water during my pregnancy, so having my hydroflask on hand was a must have item! Having it near me reminded me to drink water too!
Maternity Support Band – This support band was amazing! I used it during my second trimester, but mostly during my third trimester. I used other bands, but this was the most comfortable. It has a brace for the back, which I appreciated. I had lower back pain and sciatica, so having something to support my back was great! It also helped with any heaviness I felt from my belly bump.
Maternity Clothes – I was lucky to not have to buy any maternity clothes as I received some from my family. It saved me a lot of money! I wore oversized clothing that I already owned too. Having maternity clothes or oversized clothing is a must! You’re more comfortable that way!
Heating Pad – I used a heating pad for my neck, shoulders and back whenever I felt pain. I was scared to use it for too long, so I wouldn’t. I was also cautious of the temperature. However, I think it did help relieve any muscle tension I had!
Everyday Liners – I’ve worn everyday liners for years, but it was extremely helpful during pregnancy. I had discharge from time to time, so they came in handy!
Epsom Salt – My legs would swell during my third trimester, so I’d do an epsom salt bath. I’d pour epsom salt into a bucket of cold water and let my feet rest in it. Afterwards, I’d elevate my legs and place ice packs on them. Although the swelling would return, this method helped relieve it!
Step Stool – I needed a step stool for a lot of things! I couldn’t reach for anything that was high, especially with a belly bump. I also found it helpful with bowel movement, which was difficult for me during pregnancy.
Dates – I ate four to six dates almost everyday before giving birth. I coated them with chocolate or ate them with peanut butter just so I had something to eat it with!
Raspberry Leaf Tea – I drank raspberry leaf tea in my third pregnancy to prepare for my labor and delivery.
Okra Water – Towards the end of my pregnancy, I drank okra water. I put mixed berries, lemon, and okra into a pitcher of water. I’m not sure if this did anything to help my labor and delivery process, but I didn’t mind drinking it!
