Pregnancy must-haves for first-time moms

Pregnancy truly is magical, but can someone please create a survival guide that will mentally and physically prepare you for all of the changes to come?

As a first-timer, it took me awhile to get into the groove of things, so to help you stay ahead of the curve, here are a few tips and products that will help ease you into the journey to motherhood.

Stretch Marks

I said it before, and I’ll say it again: I am not afraid to gain weight, but the idea of having markings on my body truly scares me. I have been using this natural stretch mark oil post-shower/bath since the beginning, and have yet to notice any marks with the ever-growing bump. I also like how lightweight the formula is, so you don’t feel greasy after application.

Throughout the day, when I start to get an itch, I apply the Aveeno Moisturizing Lotion.

Shapewear

I know what you’re thinking, “shapewear while pregnant?! Isn’t that constricting on the belly?"

I have been a fan of Kim Kardashian’s shapewear brand, skims, for awhile now because it truly is designed for women of all shapes and sizes. When she came out with her maternity line, I had to try it, and now, all I wear under my dresses is this maternity sculpting solutionwear (in clay). It shapes your natural silhouette, offers non-compressive material that actually supports the bump, and smoothens out any “rolls.”

I promise this will be one of your most-used purchases. Wearing this makes me feel even more in love with my curvy pregnant body.

Vaginal Discharge

Yep, it’s a thing. A thing that makes you feel like you may have just peed your pants. To avoid feeling gross and ruining your underwear, buy panty liners. I keep these on me at all times.

Maternity Clothing

Don’t go overboard! There are so many ways to repurpose items you already own. However, I will recommend purchasing a pair of over-the-bump jeans. I found under-the-bump pants to be unflattering, uncomfortable, and sized poorly.

These skinny jeans are super flattering and come in many colors. I also recommend buying a pair of over-the-bump leggings. For daily use, I wear this affordable pair from Amazon (true to size), and for working out, I wear lululemon’s Align Leggings because they have more stretch.

Snacks

For everyone’s sanity, pick a drawer or a cabinet and designate it as your pregnancy snack haven. Tell your spouse to keep his eyes and hands away from it if he wants the next nine months to go smoothly :)

For my personal favorite snacks that are easy on the tummy, I go for instant oatmeal, boom chicka pop’s kettle popcorn, and dried fruit bars.

Nausea

Ah, the inevitable. I wish I knew early on that drinking sparkling water can make matters worse. Luckily, I was gifted these drops for nausea relief that truly saved many trips to the bathroom.

Education

I will leave you with this: At first, I felt incredibly overwhelmed. With all of the different testing options available, everything that could go wrong, it absolutely terrified me and led to anxiety. However, this book will be your saving grace. As you read, keep a running list of questions you want to ask your doctor, or items you want to confirm.

Remember, the best way to learn what works and what doesn’t is through trial and error. I wish you nothing but the most glorious pregnancy, and hope you soak up every minute of this magical time.