My Fave Things for the First 6 Months of Pregnancy

Little nug is “allegedly” as big as a grapefruit. I don’t really know how they compare that? Maybe if you roll him up in a ball he’d look like a grapefruit? Anyway, I came into pregnancy clueless to say the least. I’d never researched it, and am very much a “we’ll cross that bridge when we get to it” type of gal, so I’ve learned A LOT. All the info can be overwhelming to say the least, and I’ve found myself sticking to a few sources and limiting research. If you’re like me and don’t really know where to start, I wanted to share a list of my fave things that have helped me these first 6 months of pregnancy.

The List

The Snoogle– Game changer for me. I did not sleep well at the beginning and could NOT get comfortable for the life of me. My friend gifted me her Snoogle, and it has become my bff much to my husband’s dismay. I don’t like sleeping with multiple pillows, and have never found pillows between my legs to be comfortable. The Snoogle is the perfect balance and makes me feel like I’m being held by a fluffy, squishy angel from the Lord.

Button Extenders– a simple, but magical little invention. You will be stuck in a weird in-between for quite some time. These are the bomb!

The Spoiled Mama Tummy Butter Stretch Mark System– Full transparency, I was paranoid about stretch marks and skin changers during pregnancy. I’ve been the same size my whole life, so it was intimidating to me. One of the first questions I asked a friend was, “how do I take care of my skin”. I’m also very conscious about ingredient lists and using clean, toxin free products –especially now. I started using this system first thing, and really love it! I even use the scrub for my face because it’s gentle and clean. (Side note, hydration is a huge factor in taking care of your skin!)

Coconut oil– I hit a random few weeks of hella dry skin. My neck got so dry I couldn’t look up because it would crack and hurt! It was weiiiirdddd. I lathered pure coconut oil mixed with my system above and pure shea butter multiple times a day (and hubs is crucial in “buttering my back” as we call it).

Borrowed Maternity clothes– I had NO clue how to shop for maternity clothes. Plus, we were in a worldwide lockdown with COVID-19, so I was blindly looking at things online with no idea about sizing, fit, etc.. I decided to ask around to see if friends my size had any clothes I could borrow. I had MUCH better luck than ordering online. I’ve barely had to order anything which has been a nice money saver.

Meditation (Calm, Abide, Expectful)– Meditation has been a big part of my life the past few years, and even more so now. It was a WEIRD first few months with a lot of sickness, a pandemic, business loss, and more, so my anxiety was trying to bubble more than normal. I’m also preparing for a natural birth, which is 90% mental. I meditate at least once, if not multiple times every single day. It has been imperative to my sleep cycles, stress management, mental preparation, and baby care. Did you know chronic stress causes preterm birth, low birth rates, and brain development (including behavioral issues as your kiddo grows)?! That’s a BIG deal. It’s just as important to practice coping skills and stress management during pregnancy as it is avoiding certain foods, activities, and drinks! For recognizing signs of anxiety, here is more info.

The Bump App/What to Expect App– I had no clue what was going to happen to my body (homeschooler over here skipped that day in health class). These apps, along with my midwives and friends, have educated me about wtf is going on and, appropriately, what to expect. The info is very easy to read and informative, and has visuals and plenty of additional resources if you’d like.

SLEEP– It will be shocking how much sleep you need–at least it was for me. Embrace it and let it freaking happen.

Limited advice/research– I’ve found limiting my resources, whether people or blogs, has been great for keeping my mental capacity in check and less overwhelmed. I have a handful of friends with similar mindsets/priorities as me I bounce questions off of. You can research yourself TO DEATH. I have settled on the fact that the human race has survived far beyond the years of mommy blogs and do’s and don’ts.

Walking, chiropractor, massages, yoga, stretching– Your body will hurt. USE THESE RESOURCES. Stay active, and take care of your body before, during, and active.

Want to add to the list of fave things for readers?

What are some of your favorite things, products, thought processes, and habits that have helped you navigate pregnancy?