Expecting your little bundle of joy comes with a roller coaster of emotions, and of course, pain and discomfort too. Since the journey to motherhood is bumpy as it is, why not make life as easy as possible? Whether you’re a mum-to-be or intend to become one, these must-haves are bound to come in handy!
1) U-shaped pillow
The first few months are bearable but as your baby grows, so does your belly. This means night after night of uncomfortable sleeping positions and backaches. Even if you think you can handle the weight, avoid sleeping on your back for long periods because there will be repercussions, especially during your second and third trimester!
According to experts, the weight of your baby aggravates backache, affects blood circulation and ultimately reduces the blood flow back to your baby. What you should do instead is to sleep on your sides and prop yourself up with fluffy pillows. Lucky for you, there are plenty of special pregnancy pillows in the market. From U-shaped, C-shaped to wedged pillows, there’s bound to be one that catches your eye!
Image: qoo10
Apart from supporting you, U-shaped pillows are made to cushion your baby bump. The cost of these pillows range from $17 to $142, depending on your choice of brand. Regardless of where you make your purchase, always check for product reviews and ensure the pillow is of decent quality!
2) Stretch mark oil
“Stretch marks, be gone!” if that sounds like you, you’re at the right place.
Stretch marks are part of the journey to becoming a mother and really shouldn’t be seen as shameful. However, I’m sure most ladies would jump at the opportunity to get rid of them because of how it looks. If you’re looking to get rid of stretch marks, here are some things you must know:
- Stretch marks are inevitable and unfortunately, there’s no way to prevent them, only to reduce them.
- These battle scars are permanent but may fade over time.
- You’re more likely to develop stretch marks if you put on a lot of weight during pregnancy, or if your family members have a history with it.
Image: Kidspot
Before you feel dismayed, stand tall because all hope is not lost! Some ways to smooth stretch marks include drinking at least 1.6 litres of water a day, consuming more fruits and veggies, and applying products targeted at stretch marks. If you’re in the market looking for such a product, why not give Palmer’s a shot?
Consisting of active ingredients such as Vitamin E (smooths scars), Collagen (boosts skin elasticity), Elastin (enhances skin flexibility) and a mix of natural oils to name a few, Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Massage Oil hydrates and improves skin elasticity - meaning reduced stretch marks! Simply massage the oil into your skin twice daily and voilà, end your ill-fate with unsightly scars! P.S. For best results, you’re encouraged to use the oil from your first trimester up till your baby is born.
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3) Maternity support band
Slinging a heavy bag on one side of your shoulder for prolonged periods will cause that particular shoulder to be sore. Similarly, as your baby develops, the pressure of the fetus would strain your back. Eventually, your posture would be affected and nobody wants that!
Here’s where maternity support bands come in - they distribute the weight of the baby across your back and abdomen, relieving the pressure on your hips. These bands correct your posture by supporting the lower back and torso as well.
Image: Walmart
Support bands are great for expectant mothers but before investing in one, take note of the following:
- Not everyone can wear these bands - be sure to check with your doctor first!
- Avoid wearing the band for more than 3 hours each time to prevent over-reliance.
- The goal here is gentle compression. Ensure your band isn’t too tight to avoid affecting your blood circulation!
- Alert your doctor if you experience continuous pain during and after expectancy.
4) Essential oils
If you didn’t know, essential oils are highly concentrated, volatile plant extracts which come with many benefits. From cleaning products to personal care products, essential oils can be used in many situations. If you’re constantly feeling nauseous, you’d be thrilled to know that aside from inducing relaxation, these oils aid in relieving morning sickness or any form of nausea!
Essential oils come in many variations but these 3 are the most effective ones:
- Peppermint oil
In addition to its refreshing and cooling properties, peppermint is great for treating nausea. According to mum blogger Heather, mums can instantly feel better by inhaling peppermint.
- Ginger oil
Ginger is known to relieve stomach discomfort and colds, but it gets rid of nausea as well! In fact, a study conducted in 2017 revealed that ginger oil is proven to reduce nausea and vomiting after an abdominal surgery.
- Lavender oil
There are a couple of ways to use lavender oil - it can be taken orally, applied to your skin (in small doses), or inhaled via aromatherapy. In addition to treating anxiety, this oil minimizes wrinkles and any form of nausea. It may also be used to ward off pesky insects - a plus!
Essential oils can be inhaled directly, or applied on to your clothes but we recommend using an aromatherapy diffuser for the best results. One or two drops is all you need to fill your entire room with a pleasant scent of your choice. You may even concoct your own aroma if you’re feeling adventurous!
5) Compression socks
Standing on your feet for long hours can cause it to swell. Just imagine how much more unbearable it is for expectant mums who now have to withstand additional weight! This pain is due to an accumulation of blood in your feet, which can be regulated with a special pair of socks.
Want to minimize the effects of swollen feet? Say hello to your new buddies - compression socks. These warm fuzzy friends help to enhance blood circulation and cushions your feet. On top of that, they come in an array of fun designs and colors for an instant mood booster!
Since pregnancy is not an easy task, I say scour the internet for life hacks/ tips from previously expectant mothers and experts themselves. Grab every opportunity you can to make this journey an enjoyable and comfortable one!
