14 Must-Have Essentials For Your Pregnancy Journey

It can be overwhelming to navigate the many pregnancy-related products and resources that claim to help you, available, especially when you're trying to save money.

1. Prenatal Vitamins

Prenatal vitamins are essential for the baby’s development. You will need nutrients like folate, niacin, iron, calcium, riboflavin, vitamin B12, and vitamin C. For a complete guide on the supplements you need, you should ask your doctor.

2. Maternity Clothes

Do not wait to invest in maternity clothes. There is nothing more uncomfortable than wearing fitted clothes with tight waistbands when you are constantly bloated and nauseous. Spending money on maternity clothes is well worth the investment because of how comfortable you will feel. Loose, roomy clothes that are designed to accommodate your changing body are important and offer more comfort than simply buying larger-sized clothing. You might want to get bigger bras to ease the pain of sore breasts, maternity bottom wear designed to make space for the growing uterus and be comfortable while bloated and some dresses. What is more, you can wear dresses throughout if that is convenient for you, since any type of waistband can be uncomfortable at this time. When sleeping, opt for a loose, oversized T-shirt or nightdress. The more you avoid waistbands and elastics, the better you will feel.

3. Supportive Maternity Bra

Pregnancy will make your breasts grow and become heavier as your body prepares itself to nurse the baby. You will need a supportive, comfortable bra. Opt for a maternity bra with wide, cushioned straps that don’t dig into your skin and a wide back band that provides more coverage and support. It is important to choose one that is not underwired and has soft cups that provide optimal support and comfort.

4. Pregnancy Pillow

If you want to be able to sleep with minimal discomfort, a maternity or pregnancy pillow is an absolute must. While providing comfort, a maternity pillow will ensure you do not sleep on your back, which is dangerous while you are pregnant. It helps you stay on your side. It also helps with pelvic pain relief.

5. Maternity Belt

A maternity belt is necessary to ease your back and pelvic pain. Your growing belly adds a lot of pressure to your back and pelvis. This is where a belly band can help you. Your back will be grateful for the additional assistance. You might have to do some research and try a few before finding the right one.

6. Probiotics For Better Gut Health

Check with your doctor or healthcare provider before taking any probiotics, but, probiotics can help make your digestive system work so much better. If you don’t wish to take supplements, you can add specific yoghurts to your diet for the same. This can also help with morning sickness.

7. Exercise Equipment

Using an exercise ball can help open up your hips and increase your circulation. This can also help with any discomfort you feel at your hip joints. As we all know, it is very important to stay active while you are pregnant, and an exercise ball helps you do that in a safe and comfortable way. It helps open up the pelvic joints and improve blood circulation, which is especially important in the third trimester when you are so close to labour. You should also get yourself a yoga mat for those prenatal yoga classes. Additionally, resistance bands can provide support while you exercise your legs and ankles. While purchasing equipment, make sure it is from a trusted brand.

8. Slip-on Shoes

Comfortable footwear, in addition to maternity clothes, is one of the most important investments. You will specifically want to buy slip-on shoes when you are pregnant, as it will not be easy for you to bend and put them on. This is more important towards the third trimester, however, you can get these kinds of shoes early on to make sure you are comfortable throughout since bending to put on shoes causes a lot of pelvic pressure. An added benefit of switching to slip-on shoes is the ease they provide you from the swelling in your feet. You would want to take these shoes with you to the hospital as well.

9. Healthy Snacks

Being pregnant can make you feel constantly hungry. You will feel like munching on something all the time, so instead of leaning on junk snacks like chips, it is best to pack healthy snacks like nuts, fruits, and seeds in containers to munch on throughout the day. This will also help you manage your pregnancy weight gain.

10. Water Bottle

It is very important to stay hydrated while you are pregnant. Hydration helps with digestion, waste removal, and circulation of nutrients. It also helps with reducing swelling in the legs, which is a common symptom of pregnancy. Moreover, hydration helps support kidney function, since pregnancy can make it hard for the kidneys to filter out waste. Get yourself an easy-to-carry water bottle that you can sip from as you work.

11. Heating Pads and Ice Packs

During pregnancy, your body is changing so much. You will experience more aches and pains than you expected. Investing in both a heating pad and an ice pack will help you find so much relief, even if you are in the first trimester. These products can help you with postpartum pain as well.

12. Hot Fomentation Bags

Hot fomentation bags offer a soothing and comforting solution for pregnancy-related aches and pains. Whether it's to alleviate muscle soreness, reduce back pain, or provide relief from menstrual cramps, these versatile bags can be a valuable addition to your pregnancy essentials. They are safe and effective for both prenatal and postpartum discomfort, offering much-needed relief during this transformative time.

13. Moisturiser

With your belly expanding to accommodate your growing baby, you might start to see stretch marks appear. It's very common to get stretch marks, particularly during pregnancy. Unfortunately, these stretch marks can often be itchy. To ease this itch, get yourself a good moisturiser, preferably one that contains shea butter and vitamin E. The rich and thick texture of a moisturiser with shea butter will provide you with a good amount of hydration to ease the itchy skin. While there is no way to prevent stretch marks, as they are hereditary, a moisturiser can help you feel some relief.

14. Online Support Group

Connecting with others who are going through similar experiences can be extremely valuable. You might find yourself feeling anxious at different times of the day, and all you have to do is go online, and someone will be there to interact with you and ease your anxiety. This is especially helpful as the people around you will not fully understand what you are feeling, while other women who are pregnant will understand.Pregnancy is one of the most exciting times of your life. Adding these products to your pregnancy journey will ensure that it is a smooth ride. Search for these products online to check where you can find the best deals.