In January, we will be welcoming our sixth baby into the family. After being pregnant SO many times, I have a solid list of pregnancy must-haves. From pregnancy self-care items to the best maternity leggings, I’ve got you covered! Whether you are like me and this is not your first rodeo, or whether you are a new mama-to-be, I hope you find something beneficial to help ease your time during pregnancy. Here is the ultimate list of pregnancy must-haves:
*Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. All opinions and recommendations are my own.
Stretch Mark Oil
For each of my pregnancies, I gained a TON of weight. I mean 45-60ish lbs easy. Yikes. Miraculously, I didn’t get ANY stretch marks on my stomach. (Even as a pre-teen/teen going through growth spurts I was prone to getting stretch marks on my legs). I began using this Mama Mio Tummy Rub Oil during my first pregnancy, and have sworn by it ever since. The Mama Mio Oil uses natural ingredients, rubs on smooth, and smells great. I use about 3-4 pumps and rub it all over the front and sides of my belly, and somehow even after many biiiig belly stretches, I avoided all stretch marks- yay! Definitely a top pregnancy must-have.
The Best Maternity Leggings
A top pregnancy must-have is a great pair of maternity leggings! Honestly, I have never been that impressed with any maternity jeans, so I usually ditch those and live in these. The Blanqi Maternity Leggings (in black) have always been my go-to leggings for the duration of my pregnancies. Out of all of the maternity leggings I’ve tried, Blanqi are one of my top favorites because they’re so comfortable, stretchy, thick enough to not be see-through, grow with your belly/body, and they offer great compression that allows support of your pregnant belly without the annoyance of having to pull up pants that keep slipping off. Highly recommend!
These Over Belly Active Leggings by Isabel Maternity from Target are a GREAT find for half the price of the Blanqi ones! They are thick, stretchy, soft, have great coverage over the belly, don’t slip down, and have a comfortable low back style that helps keep you cool. I really love these leggings, but the only major difference is that the Blanqi offers more compression and support (which some women may not feel they need!).
The Best Maternity Shorts
Bouncing off of the best maternity leggings, are these Blanqi Maternity Shorts– perfect for warm weather or for wearing under a dress! Just like the Blanqi leggings, they are super comfortable, good quality, grow with your belly/body, and offer that compression and support as your pregnancy progresses.
Organic Pregnancy Tea
The Traditional Medicinals Organic Pregnancy Tea has been my go-to pregnancy herbal tea of choice for all of my pregnancies. Raspberry leaf has been used for over 2,000 years by European and Native American women to prepare for childbirth. It is said that raspberry leaf helps strengthen the uterus, shorten labor, and ease in postpartum recovery. I have been very lucky that each of my babies were born after only a couple pushes, and my postpartum physical recovery was very manageable (pregnancy was much harder for me!). So whether it was luck, or this organic pregnancy tea, either way I’m not taking my chances this pregnancy… I’m sticking with the tea! It’s also just so soothing to have a warm cup of tea to center and ground yourself and give yourself a little cup of self-care.
Supportive Body Pillow or Knee Pillow
Throughout the 9 months of pregnancy, sleeping can become tricky as different ailments arrive- back pain, knee pain, circulation issues, or even just having to get used to sleeping on your side at the 20 week mark. I’ve found it’s so important to get the proper support to help ease in a good night’s sleep! I personally never purchased one of the huge pregnancy-specific body pillows, because quite frankly they overwhelm me and I don’t want to have to store something so massive or keep it out on my bed. I find that a solid “log” body pillow or even just a simple firm knee pillow can make a big difference. Anything that helps mama sleep is definitely a pregnancy must-have!
Tempur-Pedic Tempur-Body Pillow – for a large body-length pillow (that can store easily behind your euro pillows!), with great firm support. It’s a splurge but worth it!
Tempur-Pedic Tempur-Ergo Neck Pillow – for a smaller-sized pillow that still offers firm support and can switch between knee, belly, or neck support as needed throughout your pregnancy.
UTTU Sandwich Pillow – for a smaller-sized pillow that is more budget-friendly than the Tempur-Pedic brand.
Weighted Eye Mask
Now an eye mask might not be for everyone, but I think there’s something so soothing about having a weighted eye mask, scented with lavender that helps me get solid rest throughout my pregnancies. Not only does it block out any light, but the lavender-scented masks smell great and really help me relax after a long day. Again, anything that helps mama sleep better is a pregnancy must-have for sure!
I bought my eye mask years ago (and it still smells great) from a small polish company (back then it was sold at a bigger online store), and I was able to track it down here.
Here is another great Etsy shop for weighted flaxseed and lavender eye masks.
This mask is available on Amazon and is also filled with flaxseed and lavender, and has an organic cotton cover.
This mask is another Amazon find and is also filled with flaxseed and lavender, but has a silky outer cover.
Epsom Salt / Magnesium Bath Salt
Another pregnancy must-have for relieving aches and pains, promoting relaxation and better sleep, and just an overall great addition to mom’s self-care routine is epsom salt. In particular, adding lavender epsom salt to dissolve in the bath makes the entire room smell like a spa. Make sure to not take baths that are too hot during pregnancy, but definitely make time for a warm bath and self-care moment at the end of your day. Don’t forget to take care of yourself mama!
- Yareli Lavender Dead Sea Flake– A great all-natural option with magnesium flakes imported from the Dead Sea and infused with lavender essential oil. Free of petroleum, artificial colors or fragrances, parabens, and preservatives.
- Earthborn Elements Lavender Epsom Salt– For a bulk, 1 gallon bucket size of pure ingredient epsom salt and lavender oil, this is a great find!
- 365 Whole Foods Brand Lavender Epsom Salt– This inexpensive, natural epsom salt option has a blend of natural oils and it smells amazing- my kids actually ask me to sprinkle this in their baths before bedtime because it smells so good and helps everyone unwind (much needed!).
- Pacha Soap Co Mineral Soak French Lavender– On the pricier side for the size, but it would make a great gift for any mom (vs. a giant bag/bucket of magnesium). Plus I love this brand for their other products as well.
Natural Body Scrub
Whether pregnant or not, I religiously use this whipped soap and body scrub every shower as a self-care routine. I rub a small amount between my shoulder blades and my lower back, and it smells and feels amazing. It’s the perfect, small pregnancy self-care moment you can give yourself in the shower that only takes a minute and you’ll be happy you did it!
I love the Pacha Soap Co whipped soap and body scrub products in different scents, and how they only use the best all-natural ingredients such as sunflower oil, pumice, and beekeeper-direct honey.
Keep an eye out for seasonal scents (I’ve loved them all). And if stock runs low online, they usually carry these at Whole Foods. Here are some great scents:
High-Quality Prenatal Vitamin
A high-quality prenatal vitamin is not a surprising pregnancy must-have, but of course it’s so important! Even though the price-tag can be a little much (but not as bad as some other brands), I feel like a supplement that is nourishing my body while pregnant and supporting fetal development is not the place to find a “better deal”. I’ve always used this Garden of Life Prenatal Vitamin pre-pregnancy, during pregnancy, and postpartum, because I love how the vitamins and minerals are sourced from Certified USDA Organic and Non-GMO project verified food sources.
Probiotics
In addition to a high-quality prenatal vitamin, I find having a high-quality probiotic just as important during pregnancy. It helps maintain a healthy digestive and immune system, which is so beneficial as your body is adjusting to different physical ailments and a weakened immune system during pregnancy. I’ve always used this Bio-Kult Probiotic supplement- it contains 14 different probiotic strains, contains no artificial colors or flavors or questionable ingredients, is non-GMO and gluten-free, and it does NOT require refrigeration (which is great when traveling!).
Prenatal DHA / Fish Oil
In addition to a high-quality prenatal vitamin and probiotic, a high-quality prenatal DHA/fish oil is another super important supplement during pregnancy. Fish oil contains Omega-3 Fatty Acids including DHA and EPA which help support the brain, eyes and nervous system of developing babies. Just like their prenatal vitamins, I prefer the Garden of Life Fish Oil because it is USDA Certified Organic and Non-GMO Project Verified. These fish oil supplements have a natural strawberry flavor so there is no fishy aftertaste- SO helpful when you’re already feeling so nauseous in the beginning stages of pregnancy!
Grass Fed Collagen
If you’re willing to add onto your prenatal supplement routine, my next suggestion would be a high-quality, grass-fed collagen supplement. Again, always check with your healthcare provider before starting new supplements, especially during pregnancy.
Expand your knowledge and do some research on the benefits of collagen- it contains a great source of protein, amino acids, and is beneficial to your skin, bones and cartilage. For fetal development, it’s so important that developing babies get the nutrients they need to build their own skin, bones and cartilage as well.
Collagen is also said to help prevent stretch marks during pregnancy (whether it’s from the Mama Mio Tummy Tub Oil mentioned above, or the collagen supplements, or combination of both, I’ve been very lucky to dodge stretch marks over the course of 6 full-term pregnancies!).
Collagen may relieve ligament, muscle, and joint pain during pregnancy. If you’ve read my post Honest Pregnancy: Pregnancy Is HARD, I spoke about my unfortunate encounter with the excruciating Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction (SPD) during 2 of my pregnancies. Essentially, the hormone relaxin releases too much and too early to loosen joint stability in the pelvic region, which causes HORRIFIC pain for weeks/months of pregnancy. I have avoided SPD during my last 2 pregnancies (and knock on wood, so far during this current pregnancy). I began taking this Garden of Life Grass Fed Collagen during my last 3 pregnancies, and I believe it helped tremendously in preventing Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction from occurring again (especially since often times doctors say that if you get SPD during pregnancy once you’re more likely to get it each following pregnancy). So I’m not taking my chances!
Magnesium Supplement
Last on my prenatal supplement routine is the Natural Vitality Calm Magnesium Supplement. Magnesium has many health benefits including calming properties, but what I find is most beneficial is how it aides in a healthy digestive system. I know some women that have suffered from extreme constipation during pregnancy that leads to intense cramping (which can be scary when you’re constantly worried about your developing baby). These women have had to take awful laxatives with nasty ingredients. I suggested this magnesium supplement (again, always check with your doctor), and these friends say it was a godsend in relieving their prenatal constipation and stomach cramping (take note: buy some for post-labor and delivery too! This will be a a welcomed postpartum must-have when your body has gone through so much pain to bring a little baby into the world!).
I take my magnesium supplement (lemon-raspberry flavor) and collagen supplement mixed well together in a glass of water each evening after dinner, and I drink it while taking my prenatal vitamin, probiotic and fish oil. This routine has worked well for me throughout the duration of every pregnancy, and I personally find it’s easier to take it just after dinner or before bed vs. the hustle and bustle of morning with kids (plus it’s a little gentler on the stomach than first thing in the morning).
Dry Brush
If you haven’t already begun dry brushing pre-pregnancy, this technique can help ease pregnancy symptoms related to swelling, circulation, leg cramps, etc. By dry brushing on your dry skin, in upward motions toward the heart, lymphatic flow is stimulated which can eliminate toxins from the body and improve circulation. Many experts advise avoiding dry brushing the tummy area during pregnancy, but focusing on the legs can provide relief and offer the many benefits of this sworn-by technique. There are many eco-friendly dry brushes that are made of boar bristles, and here is one I’ve had for years that has held up well.
Water Bottle
Sounds basic right? But a great water bottle is definitely a pregnancy must-have to keep your changing body hydrated! Not only is staying well-hydrated during these 9 months very important, it’s vital if you’re dealing with morning sickness in the beginning stages of pregnancy or swelling in the later stages of pregnancy. Make it a little easier on yourself and always have a great water bottle nearby- on your bedside nightstand, in the car, or in the stroller if you already have little ones and are like me where you want to get out and walk as much as you can!
- Simple Modern Water Bottle– I love these water bottles and use them for my older kids too. They are bpa-free, leak-proof, made of high-quality stainless steel to keep drinks cold, have a convenient straw function that’s easy to clean in the dishwasher, and various sleek and simple designs.
- Lifefactory Water Bottle– This is a great water bottle if you prefer to use glass. It has a silicone grip that makes it very easy to carry while protecting the glass. With a twist cap, it is less likely to spill. And if you’re like me and think water tastes best out of glass then this is your go-to!
- W&P Porter Travel Ceramic Mug– I recently bought this travel ceramic mug for bringing a cup of my go-to pregnancy tea on the go and I love it! The cream color is simple and looks great, the sliding sip-top prevents spills, the silicone cover makes it easy to hold, and I prefer to have my tea or decaf coffee in a ceramic mug (vs. stainless steel) just like I would have a cup at home.
- Hydro Flask– This is a great stainless steel water bottle with a standard mouth bottle or twist cap. On the pricier side, but people tend to love their Hydro Flasks.
A Great Pair Of Walking Shoes!
Now that you are all set with a solid water bottle, get walking! Walking during pregnancy is one of the absolute best forms of exercise. It keeps your blood circulating, helps prevent swelling, gently works your muscles to lessen leg cramps and help with sleep. I walk A LOT during my pregnancies to try to stay fit (and sane), and I’m always ready to bounce back into walking ASAP postpartum. So even if your more intense workouts are on pause, try to get out and walk as much as possible. A great pair of walking shoes is always a top choice on my pregnancy must-haves (plus, who doesn’t love buying themselves a new pair of shoes?!).
- Adidas Ultraboost– I love these shoes. Whether I’m on my treadmill walking on an incline, or walking the kids to school or walking the dogs throughout town, these bad boys have put on a ton of mileage and yet keep their shape and support wonderfully. While I used to choose my Nike’s out of habit, I’ve found the Adidas Ultraboost hold up better for my particular stride.
- Adidas PureMotion Adapt– These shoes are affordable, offer solid support, and are so stinkin cute in this creamy “wonder white” color shown here. Perfect for slipping on and going with any casual outfit.
- Birkenstock Arizona Sandal– These have been my go-to walking sandal since back in my high school days. I literally had a pair that held up for 12 years, no joke. If you’re new to Birkenstocks, they require an “ease in” process where you should wear them for short walks to break them in. In full disclosure, they cause some redness on top of my foot for the first week or two, but once they’re broken in, they are THE BEST walking sandal. I specifically recommend the Arizona style for the support of the thick double strap, as well as the suede top because I think it’s gentler on the foot than leather.
Maternity Tops
This goes without question, but you’re most likely NOT going to fit into your regular tops during pregnancy. There are so many cute and stylish maternity tops, but one of my favorites has been the one posted above. Now this one isn’t even technically a maternity top, but it’s casual, loose style is great during pregnancy AND postpartum. It’s a button-down so it’s great for breastfeeding. I personally don’t love to spend a ton of money on maternity wear, and this is really inexpensive for such a comfortable top. Especially when you’re rubbing your belly with different stretch mark preventative oils, you don’t want to worry about an expensive top getting ruined. This Amazon find has held up well to oiled bellies at nighttime and used as a cozy pajama top. I have colors oatmeal and light gray and they’re both super cute.
Although I think this Blanqi top is quite expensive for what it is, I will say I DO recommend it if you’re looking for a solid compression tank that you can wear under tops like the Amazon find above, as it offers great support. I find it much more comfortable than any type of supportive “pregnancy belly band”. And during my pregnancies where I had my second or third trimesters during the fall or winter months, this was my go-to supportive top to wear under layers.
Morning Sickness “Remedies”
Now I say “remedies” because let’s be honest- nothing is going to cure morning sickness especially if you have it as brutal as I’ve had it. It can be a longgg road of feeling nauseous 24/7, and moms in desperation for any relief will try anything! I think these all-natural Preggie Pops Plus taste really good and offer some relief even if it’s only for a short while. When you’re suffering through morning sickness sometimes candy feels like the only thing you can stomach! And these Preggie Pops fit the bill, as well as offer Vitamin B-6. (Sometimes I literally could only stomach Trader Joe’s Taffy. Anyone else? They’re AMAZING.)
Another shot worth taking to help ease morning sickness is an acupressure wristband. The acupressure wristband is made of a soft knitted elastic that exerts pressure and stimulates the P6, or Nei-Kuan, acupressure point, which is the point used to relieve nausea (for motion sickness too). It is an inexpensive and drug-free way to at least try to get some relief from the misery of morning sickness! Good luck!
A Cozy Robe
Last but not least on our list of pregnancy must-haves is a cozy robe! Yes, splurge, buy yourself a GOOD one and know that you deserve this little self-care moment. You mama are working so hard during pregnancy that you absolutely deserve to feel warm, cozy, and comfortable in something that will last throughout your pregnancy as well as postpartum (adjustable + perfect for breastfeeding = worth it!). Moms love the popular UGG robes, and these are my top recommendations: UGG Duffield Ii Robe, UGG Portola Reversible Robe (with cozy hood), UGG Blanche Ii Robe, and (the longer) UGG Marlow Robe.
Buying any or all of these pregnancy must-have items are sure to make your pregnancy journey a LITTLE bit easier, at the very least. But if you’re really in a pregnancy struggle, check out Honest Pregnancy: Pregnancy Is Hard and know that 1) you’re not alone and 2) you’ve got this mama!
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