Pregnancy comes with immense joy and excitement, but it also brings a lot of physical discomfort and emotional changes. With a growing belly, fluctuating hormones, and new body demands, all your needs shift dramatically. From clothes to vitamins, you need a lot of maternity products to keep yourself comfortable and healthy.
You don’t need to spend a fortune on new mom essentials, but there are some versatile essentials you can use both during pregnancy and postpartum to make your journey more comfortable. Here’s a comprehensive list of 20 must-have maternity essentials that will help make your pregnancy smoother and more enjoyable.
Best Maternity Essentials To Stock On When You’re Pregnant
Preparing for pregnancy means stocking up on essentials that will support you through every stage. From comfortable clothing to prenatal vitamins, these maternity must-haves ensure a smooth and comfortable journey for you and your baby.
1. Maternity Bras
As your body changes during pregnancy, your bra needs change too. Your regular bras just won’t fit you, and wearing them can lead to discomfort and even breast pain. Maternity bras are must-have maternity products for supporting your growing breasts.
With the right one, you can stay comfortable throughout your pregnancy, reducing strain on your back and shoulders. Look for bras with adjustable straps, soft fabric, and no underwires to prevent discomfort.
What’s Next
To find the best maternity bras, visit a store for a professional fitting since your size can change frequently during pregnancy. Try on several styles to see which ones offer the most comfort and support. Many maternity bras feature nursing clips, making them useful postpartum for breastfeeding.
Regularly check the fit as your body continues to change, and invest in a few high-quality options to rotate throughout the week. Proper care, like hand washing or using a gentle cycle, will help maintain their elasticity and comfort.
2. Maternity Leggings
With a growing baby bump, wearing stretchy leggings is the way to go. Whether you’re walking, doing Pilates, or just relaxing at home, maternity leggings are the best maternity products for expectant moms. They offer comfort without the irritating rubber bands or tight waistbands of regular pants.
However, it’s essential to ensure that to stay comfortable, you need high-quality, stretchy, and versatile maternity leggings. They can be dressed up or down and provide the support needed for your changing body.
What’s Next
Invest in a few pairs of high-quality maternity leggings in different colors and styles. Pair them with tunics, long sweaters, or maternity tops for various occasions. Ensure they have a supportive belly band for extra comfort. Wash them with gentle detergents and avoid high heat drying to maintain their elasticity. This maternity product is versatile, suitable for both active days and relaxing at home.
3. Belly Band
As a mom-to-be, your belly continuously grows and changes. With such rapid growth, it’s common to experience lower back pain and abdominal discomfort. This makes it essential for you to add a belly band that provides the necessary support to your maternity products checklist.
A belly band offers extra support to your lower back and abdomen, helping to alleviate pain and discomfort as your belly grows. It can also help extend the life of your pre-pregnancy pants by providing a little extra room.
What’s Next
Belly bands are particularly useful during the second and third trimesters when your belly is growing the most. Wear it during physical activities or when standing for long periods to reduce strain on your back.
Ensure the belly band fits snugly but not too tight to avoid discomfort or restricted circulation. Regularly check the fit and adjust as needed to maintain comfort throughout your pregnancy.
4. Prenatal Vitamins
When you’re pregnant, you need extra nutrients to support your health and your baby’s development. As a new life is growing within you, it’s crucial to ensure you get adequate vitamins and minerals. If your pregnancy diet lacks essential nutrients, it could cause complications for both you and your baby.
Prenatal vitamins are maternity essential as they typically contain folic acid, iron, calcium, and other vital nutrients. These vitamins help prevent birth defects, support the baby’s growth, and maintain your health during pregnancy. Consult with your healthcare provider to find the best option for you.
What’s Next
Take your prenatal vitamins consistently every day, ideally with a meal to enhance absorption and reduce the chances of nausea. Discuss with your healthcare provider if you need any additional supplements based on your specific health needs. Keep track of your vitamin intake and stay informed about the best options available for your health and your baby’s development.
5. Comfortable Shoes
Swelling in the feet is a common pregnancy symptom. It happens to a lot of moms-to-be due to increased blood volume and hormonal changes. This can cause discomfort and pain, making it essential to invest in a pair of comfortable, supportive shoes.
While getting this maternity essential – Look for shoes made from breathable materials, with good arch support and adjustable features like straps or laces to provide the best fit.
What’s Next
Choose shoes that you can easily slip on and off, especially as bending down becomes more challenging. Consider having a few pairs, such as supportive sneakers for walking and cushioned flats for daily wear. Regularly check the fit as your feet may swell more at different times of the day. Proper footwear can significantly reduce foot pain and help you stay active and comfortable throughout your pregnancy.
6. Maternity Pillows
Lack of sleep means double trouble for a mom-to-be. While your baby grows, it’s difficult to get a good night’s sleep due to discomfort, but it’s essential for your health. Adding a maternity pillow to your maternity products checklist can significantly improve your sleep quality. Maternity pillows, such as full-body or wedge pillows, give support to your belly and back while also alleviating pressure points
What’s Next
Experiment with different types of maternity pillows to find the one that suits you best, such as U-shaped, C-shaped, or wedge pillows. Use this maternity essential to support various parts of your body, including your belly, back, and knees. Position the maternity pillow to help you sleep on your side, which is recommended during pregnancy. Regularly adjust the pillow as your body changes to maintain comfort and support.
7. Stretch Mark Cream
Who doesn’t want to keep their skin smooth and free from stretch marks? During pregnancy, skin stretches significantly, making it prone to stretch marks. Keeping your skin moisturized is essential to maintaining its elasticity.
Look for a cream or oil specifically designed for pregnant women that contains ingredients like cocoa butter, shea butter, or vitamin E. These ingredients nourish and hydrate your skin, helping to prevent stretch marks.
What’s Next
Apply stretch mark cream generously to areas prone to stretching, such as your belly, hips, thighs, and breasts, twice daily. Massage the cream in circular motions to enhance absorption. Consistency is key, so make it a part of your daily skincare routine. Continue using the cream postpartum to help your skin recover and maintain its elasticity.
8. Nursing Tops
Nursing tops are essential maternity products for both during pregnancy and postpartum. During pregnancy, you can feel comfortable and stylish wearing nursing tops. Once your baby arrives, it makes breastfeeding super convenient and discreet.
While shopping, look for tops with easy access for nursing, breathable materials, and stretchy fabrics to accommodate your changing body.
What’s Next
Choose nursing tops that you can layer with other clothing items for versatility. Look for designs that allow for easy one-handed access to make nursing simpler. Invest in a few different styles, such as casual t-shirts and more formal blouses, to suit various occasions. Nursing tops are practical, providing comfort and convenience during and after pregnancy.
9. Maternity Dresses
Social events don’t stop just because you’re pregnant, but comfort should still be a priority. Maternity dresses are perfect for both casual and formal occasions, offering style and comfort. Look for styles that provide room for your growing bump and can be worn throughout your pregnancy.
What’s Next
Opt for dresses with adjustable features like empire waists or stretchy fabrics that can accommodate your changing shape. Consider layering with leggings or cardigans for added warmth and versatility. Maternity dresses can be dressed up with accessories or kept simple for a casual look. Choose a variety of colors and patterns to keep your wardrobe fun and functional throughout your pregnancy.
10. Journal
No matter if you’re fond of writing or not, keeping a journal during pregnancy can be a wonderful way to document your journey. You’ll experience a lot of feelings and emotions, and recording them can be therapeutic and insightful. It’s a good idea to document your thoughts, feelings, and milestones to look back on in the future.
What’s Next
Write regularly about your experiences, symptoms, and milestones. Include photos, ultrasound images, and mementos for a comprehensive keepsake. Reflect on your entries to track your progress and emotional journey. A pregnancy journal can become a cherished memento that you and your child can look back on in the years to come.
11. Pregnancy Books
Pregnancy is a unique and transformative experience. Reading books about pregnancy can provide valuable information and support. Getting to know what to expect makes your journey smoother and more enjoyable. You gain insights into your baby’s development, tips for managing symptoms, and advice for labor and delivery.
What’s Next
Choose books written by reputable authors or medical professionals. Balance informative reads with lighter, more personal narratives from other mothers. Share what you learn with your partner to keep them informed and involved. Reading pregnancy books can empower you with knowledge, helping you feel more prepared and confident throughout your pregnancy.
Enjoy your pregnancy journey with these maternity essentials, and remember to take care of yourself as you prepare for your new arrival!
