So, you’re expecting a baby. This might be your first pregnancy, or perhaps it’s your second or third. And while this may sound obvious, I’m here to remind you that when it comes to getting through the next 9 months, your COMFORT is KEY. Getting and staying comfortable is not only important for you, but it’s also essential for the well-being of your baby. These 10 tips will help you get nice and comfy during your pregnancy journey – and beyond.
#1 Always wear good shoes. And no, I don’t mean Louboutins, but proper foot-forming, podiatrist-approved, good old reliable flats. If you’re able to stay active throughout your pregnancy, you have to take care of your feet – otherwise, all the pain (and no gain!) could move its way up and even give you unnecessary back and neck pain.
#2 Hug a pillow. Your partner might be jealous, but finding a good pillow or two (or even a giant body pillow) can make all the difference when falling asleep and staying asleep.
#3 Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize! Your skin is literally stretching, and at what can seem like lightning speed. Make a habit of moisturizing your belly, lower back, and even ‘the girls’ (they’ll be getting bigger, too!) every morning when you wake up, and every night before you go to sleep. Try using a special stretch-mark reducing moisturizer or oil for even better results.
#4 Update your wardrobe. It might feel good to wear your favourite jeans with the button undone for as long as humanly possible, but they’re just not going to give you the stretch you need. Maternity clothes are specifically designed to adjust as you grow! If your budget doesn’t allow for this, check out local mama groups online where people are always selling their gently used maternity wear. If you’re pregnant in the summertime, wear loose-fitting dresses that will give you the comfort and coverage you need as your baby – and your belly – get bigger.
#5 Spend money on a good nursing bra. Trust me, this will save your sanity! Find a local shop where they can fit you properly, and start wearing the bra before you give birth so that you’re used to it when baby arrives. The adjustable straps will help with the fluctuating size of your breasts, and the specially-designed cups will give you easy access once baby starts nursing or you start using a breast pump.
#6 Don’t be afraid to eat! There’s just too much hype about getting back to your pre-pregnancy weight, and so many women are terrified of gaining any weight. I’m certainly not condoning ordering that extra-large pizza at 2am (although, we’ve all been there), but your body is literally making another human so you’re going to need to eat more. Be sure to eat a variety of wholesome foods throughout the day to keep you satisfied – and don’t feel guilty if you go for that second bowl of cereal with blueberries.
#7 Talk to your midwife or obstetrician about supplements. Even though you’re eating well, you might not be getting all the nutrients you need for you and baby, so it might be worth taking a prenatal multivitamin. You might also be experiencing some gas, acid reflux, or other weird symptoms that another type of supplement might help with. Just remember, always talk to your medical professional first before taking anything.
#8 Decide what you’ll wear for your delivery. This might sound strange, but it’s actually a lot more important than you think! Hospital gowns are even worse than they look in the movies – they’re scratchy and uncomfortable, they don’t cover all your bits, and while they’ve been washed and disinfected, they’ve been worn by goodness knows how many people before you (yuck). A birthing gown provides easy access for fetal monitoring during labor, while keeping you covered and comfortable.
#9 Pack your hospital bag NOW. Packing what you need ahead of time will alleviate some of your anxiety about the big day. There are so many unknowns during this time, and exactly when this baby is coming is one of them. Being prepared in the event of an early labor will help keep your mind at ease!
#10 Keep an open mind, and remember to breathe. It’s important to have an idea of what your birthing plan is, but try to keep an open mind because things could change (and they usually do). While you’re feeling all sorts of other uncomfortable things during labor, the last thing you want to feel is stress. If thinking about labor makes you anxious, breathe through those feelings and prepare yourself to handle – and be comfortable with – any situation that comes your way.