My Pregnancy Must-Haves
I know there are so dozens, probably hundreds of blogs out there saying “THIS is what saved me during pregnancy,” but I felt compelled to still share a few of my favorite items. I like to compare different opinions and come up with what works best for me, so I hope you find this article useful, instead of redundant!
Also, please share in the comments some of your favorite pregnancy & postpartum things!
NOTE: some of the links contain affiliate partnerships & therefore I may make a small commission on.
supplements
PRENATAL VITAMIN
I am sure I’m not the first to recommend a prenatal vitamin, but I love this one. It doesn’t make me nauseous or upset my stomach. I also love NutriGold’s high standards when it comes to testing & creating their supplements.
TIP: If you are concerned about nausea, take this right before bed with lots of water.
PRENATAL PROBIOTIC
I started taking this probiotic towards the end of my pregnancy & really fell in love with it, as well as MaryRuth’s as a brand.
CALM, A MAGNESIUM SUPPLEMENT
For frequent leg cramps to unpredictable bowel movements (I said it!), this supplement helps so much! I take 1-2 tsp in water 1-2x per day. I get mine at Costco, but it’s available at online retailers as well as most local health food stores.
Body Care & products
SUGARBUFF BODY POLISH IN LEMONGRASS
I have always loved this scrub, but it feels like an extra treat these days! I love using this on my legs right before shaving. it leaves my skin feeling extra polished & silky smooth. BONUS, it’s made without fragrance & potentially harmful ingredients. Happy Skin, Happy Mama, Happy Baby :)
DR. TEAL’S EPSOM SALT SOAK
Baths have become one of my favorite ways to decompress and slow down at the end of the day. I always sleep so well when I have taken time to soak, read, and recharge. I add about 1/2C of this soaking Epsom salt to my bath to help relieve any aches and pains. Works like a charm!
THE SMOOTHEST BODY LOTION
After every shower or bath, I try and apply some sort of moisturizer. This Adaptive Body Lotion has become a favorite. Sometimes I add a few drops of essential oils to the mix, but usually, it’s creamy enough on its own. I love that a little goes a long way & it doesn’t leave me sticky.
DRY BRUSH
Dry Brushing is a great way to support better circulation, it detoxifies, it exfoliates, & improves the overall appearance of your skin. Before you shower, enjoy this new ritual that only takes a few minutes! I turn on my shower & while the water is heating up, I grab my dry brush & get to brushing.
PS use code PAULINA10 for 10% off your dry brush order.
clothing
COMPRESSION SOCKS
I started getting calf cramps in the middle of the night during the latter part of my 1st trimester. I tried rolling out with a foam roller & doing pre-bed stretches, but it just wasn’t cutting it. Once I got these compression socks, my cramps got significantly less severe. I went with the 15-20 mmHg compression.
COTTON BIKER SHORTS
I bought these early on in my pregnancy and thought, hmm I wonder if I will ever wear these. YES, the answer is YES. These are so nice under dresses especially to feel a bit more supported and covered. They also help smooth lines.
books
THE MAMA NATURAL WEEK-BY-WEEK GUIDE TO PREGNANCY & CHILBIRTH
I love this week-by-week format. It makes it really simple to read a few pages a week. It can be overwhelming with all the things there are to read leading up to labor & delivery!
Other
OUR TUFT & NEEDLE MATTRESS
So I LOVE our bed all the time, but I have been especially grateful for a comfy place to lay my head (& baby’s). Tuft & Needle doesn’t require a boxspring & it comes in different firmness levels. Every time we come back from sleeping elsewhere, I am so excited to be back in my bed!
HEALTH SERVICES
Obviously, I am not a medical professional, so seek guidance as to whether or not these practices are beneficial for you!
MASSAGE THERAPY
I have been doing regular massages pre-pregnancy and have continued throughout pregnancy as well. I love the relaxation and relief I get from them. Make sure you find someone who knows pre-natal massage techniques.
If you are in the Kansas City area, you MUST go to Rachel at Scents of Touch. She’s the BEST! Mention I sent you ;)
CHIROPRACTIC CARE
Chiropractic care is one of the best (in my opinion) preventative health measures you can do. Not all chiropractors are the same though. Do your research and make sure they follow practices that you want/ desire in the care.
Local to Kansas City? Check out Precision Health in the Waldo area or Journey Chiropractic in Overland Park!
PELVIC FLOOR PHYSICAL THERAPY
Last, but certainly not least, is pelvic floor physical therapy. I initially was referred to them because of my sciatica that was flaring, but we also have done some labor and delivery pelvic floor prep. I have learned SO MUCH & feel a lot more knowledgeable going into labor. I will definitely continue care postpartum as well.
Looking for someone in the Kansas City area? Check out Foundational Concepts!
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Hi, I’m Paulina!
Welcome to Paulina Comes Clean! A blog featuring good eats, home inspiration, clean products, & tips to cultivate true wellness.
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