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Your body goes through many changes when you are pregnant, and more often than not, you will find that these changes make you quite uncomfortable. Things you could previously do without thinking twice, such as bending down to pick something up or sleeping comfortably, will suddenly become close to impossible. Not to mention the weight gain, need for a change of clothes, food cravings, and sickness, the list is way too long. But many times you won’t be able to run away from your day-to-day life of chores and responsibilities. You will still have to go about your daily business during pregnancy.
Fortunately in this modern world, we have access to many well-thought-out pieces of equipment, devices, and accessories that are exclusively designed, keeping the maternal struggles in mind. The subtlest of assistance that these accessories provide you can go a long way in making your day-to-day life convenient. In fact, what we’re about to share with you aren’t just accessories, they’re essentials! So without further ado, let’s dive into some super cool pregnancy accessories that you simply must have:
1. Pregnancy Pillow
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This one had to be top on the list because it provides so much comfort, and we know that you need all the cozy comfort available during pregnancy! These pillows come in different shapes and sizes. Opt for a total body pregnancy pillow that allows you to literally plop yourself on it. You can hug this pillow while sleeping, and it will provide the support you need as you lay down. Another great option is the memory foam pillow which retains its shape to the last used position. Imagine coming back to your pillow and you can lean back in the exact same position that provided you the most comfort. Well, that is exactly what a memory pillow will do for you!
2. Hot Water Bag
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Pregnancy is often synonymous with swollen feet and ankles, neck pain, and severe backache. A good hot water bag can give you some much-needed relief, so make sure you invest in this as well. You will also find battery-operated hot water bags that come with a built-in massager. It is just what you need to enjoy a good massage session on tough days!
3. Maternity Belt
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Often during pregnancy, the extra load from carrying the baby ends up causing back issues. You need to take care of your back as you still have the later months of doing the heavy lifting, literally. Remember that, you’re carrying a tiny human inside your belly, and as your baby grows, you will realize that your pregnant belly can get pretty heavy! This, in turn, can lead to hip pain and backaches. A maternity belt can be a blessing at these times. Just like how a bra supports a woman’s breasts, a maternity belt helps support your belly, and it can be such a relief! This little bit of extra support goes a long way in keeping the core and back muscles strong and injury-free.
4. Maternity Clothing
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Pregnancy equals weight gain, and by the time you’re in the second and third trimester, you’ll see that you can’t fit into most of your clothes. The jeans are too tight at the waist, your breasts have grown by almost two sizes, and let’s not even get started with the belly area! This is where maternity clothing such as maternity dresses, maternity jeans, and even maternity bras come in. They’re comfortable, pretty, and highly essential.
In the past, maternity clothes were often considered to be bland and lacking fashion. But this perspective has gone through a sea change. From stylish dungarees to flowy maxi dresses, pregnancy fashion is here and pregnant mothers shouldn’t shy away from walking in style. If you’re lost for ideas, check out the many blogs that would provide you with more than plenty of wardrobe ideas that you can rock even with your baby bump. Some quick trend tips – Kaftan style dresses, spaghetti dresses, and jumpsuits.
5. Oil Or Moisturizer
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You simply must invest in a good oil or moisturizer for your skin, particularly for your belly, breasts, and thighs, where stretchmarks commonly appear. The reason? These areas tend to get itchy when they stretch. Additionally, a good massage oil can be used to stimulate blood flow to your hands and feet.
6. A Journal
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Pregnancy is one of the most profound and memorable times of your life. You’re about to become a mother, and you might want to pen down your thoughts and make some tangible memories. The best way to do this is by maintaining a journal. You can also use this journal to track how far you’ve progressed in your pregnancy. Go ahead and write your thoughts down, and add pictures to it. Several years down the lane, when you find your journal, you’ll be grateful for having kept one!
7. Multivitamins
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This is an absolute necessity. Prenatal and postnatal vitamins are a must-have as they can give you and your baby essential nutrients that you both need. Choose ones that contain folic acid, calcium, and iron. However, don’t take any medications or supplements without consulting your doctor first. Consult your doctor as well as a nutritionist to plan the important supplements your body is in need of.
8. A Yoga Mat
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Yoga and other forms of stretching exercises have proven to be very effective for expecting mothers. These exercises are physically less draining but equally effective at strengthening the core and back muscles. During the later stages of pregnancy, you will need the strength to carry the weight of the fetus. Also, these same muscle groups provide the most support during childbirth. So keep a yoga mat with you so that you are able to do a quick yoga routine at the office or when you’re outside. Yoga mats are usually lightweight and easy to carry around, and what’s more, is that they look really cool.
Having the above accessories will most certainly help you through this stage in your life. Carrying a baby in your belly is no easy task, so go ahead and make use of the comfort that these accessories can provide you with! What are your thoughts on this? Which one of these items do you swear by? Let us know in the comments below!
