brit strawbridge

brit strawbridge

a blog on living simply + loving fully

Pregnancy Essentials

 

I just hit my third trimester in my *FOURTH* pregnancy and feeling all the wonderful ( & not so wonderful things) that come with that. I always get extremely sick through the first two trimesters (thanks to Hyperemesis Gravidarium) and are pretty much dead to the world – so now that I am somewhat myself again and having a bit more energy before the anemia kicks in, I wanted to share all of my pregnancy essentials, and what makes my life so much easier through these 9 months.

 



 

When my first little one was born, I was over prepared for the birth, but underprepared while I was pregnant with him. I embraced every day almost like a surprise, wondering what was going to happen next. I originally wrote this post when I was pregnant with my second preparing for no surprises and making sure I had everything I needed.

 

Now as much planning and preparing you can do for yourself, there may always be surprises at some point or another. We did have a surprise on our second, but that wasn’t until birth. What we thought was going to be our little girl turned out to be our sweet little boy! Suffice to say we are NOT finding out the gender this time haha. I may elaborate more when I update my Hospital Bag Essentials Checklist!

 

Since I am on my fourth pregnancy, I can say with complete assurance these items stayed true and essential! Also, due to my pregnancies being pretty awful (I hate to say it…they’re awful, but worth it!) I may have some essentials that I feel are really important but may not be as important for someone with a breeze of a pregnancy! Either way, I’m trying to cover the basis!

 

 

Maternity Clothes

 

Of course, maternity clothes are a pregnancy essential! Whether you are a mama who doesn’t need them until your second trimester, or one who needs them after the first month, you will need them at some point. There are so many options now with maternity clothing, it is really amazing! My mom always reminds me that she practically wore a tent dress for all her pregnancies…not very stylish but I’m sure very comfortable! haha

 

Although maternity clothing is much more accessible nowadays, finding styles that are trendy, comfy, soft + flattering can be hit or miss. After some trial and error, I am in a semi-committed relationship with two maternity brands that I absolutely love. Also, they have amazing transitional clothing from maternity, to nursing, to even afterward!

 

Ingrid & Isabel

 

A one-stop shop for my basics. These everyday items are amazing quality that will last through many pregnancies and afterward! Here are a few must-haves I’ve had in my closet that I still get tons of use out of!

 

Pregnancy Starter Kit

Bellaband, Seamless Maternity Cami & Leggings

Buy Now

 

Long Sleeve Asymmetrical Hem Maternity Dress

Buy Now

 

Seamless Maternity Capri Leggings

Buy Now

 

Cross Front Maternity Jumpsuit

Buy Now

 

 

Ruched Maternity Tank Dress

Buy Now

 

Shop Maternity Essentials at Ingrid & Isabel

 

PinkBlush Maternity

If you follow me on Instagram or have while I have been pregnant, you will most likely see many pretty little pieces from PinkBlush. Keeping my style and feeling trendy definitely doesn’t go away when I am pregnant, and I have found PinkBlush to always have the sweet little clothing items to keep me comfy but still look cute and put together! I wear PinkBlush pregnant or not, but their options are definitely the most flattering with that sweet little bump!

 

I have never had issues with sizing when shopping online and their prices are hard to beat! The styles are constantly changing and staying fresh so be warned, if you see something you love, it might be gone the next week! Though they have kept some staples that I LOVE, like my floral delivery robe I wear pretty much every day. Here are a few of my recent picks from Pinkblush that I am loving!

 

Pregnancy Essentials List + Maternity Must Haves | A list of the pregnancy essential items & maternity must-haves. Being pregnant can be the most wonderful thing & the most intimidating thing - but what I have learned is the more you prepare and embrace it, you can make the most of it! | britstrawbridge.com #pregnancy #pregnancyessentials #maternityessentials #maternity

 

Cream Floral Delivery/Nursing Maternity Robe

 

Pregnancy Essentials List + Maternity Must Haves | A list of the pregnancy essential items & maternity must-haves. Being pregnant can be the most wonderful thing & the most intimidating thing - but what I have learned is the more you prepare and embrace it, you can make the most of it! | britstrawbridge.com #pregnancy #pregnancyessentials #maternityessentials #maternity

 

Black Button Front Wide Leg Maternity Jumpsuit

 

Pregnancy Essentials List + Maternity Must Haves | A list of the pregnancy essential items & maternity must-haves. Being pregnant can be the most wonderful thing & the most intimidating thing - but what I have learned is the more you prepare and embrace it, you can make the most of it! | britstrawbridge.com #pregnancy #pregnancyessentials #maternityessentials #maternity

 

Black Ruffle Maternity Swimsuit

Here are a few new favourites that I’m loving this season!

Yellow Off Shoulder Tassel Tie Maternity Maxi Dress

Black Button Ruffle Sleeve Maternity Maxi Dress

Beige Paisley Print Maternity Mini Dress

Snoogle Pregnancy Pillow

 

An absolute ESSENTIAL for a good night’s sleep and crucial for comfortable lounging. It is amazing how much your body changes right from the beginning, even if you can’t see it. As your bones start relaxing to prepare for your growing belly – this is a miracle from heaven. You can use it the traditional way when sleeping to give your lower back, hips + tummy support, or you can roll it to give you some upper body or lower body elevation. Let’s be honest, even something as simple as sitting doesn’t provide the comfort it once gave you, so using the bottom as a cushion for, well, your bottom, helps in more ways than one! I have the Snoogle with the soft jersey cover – it is SO buttery and soft! Utter bliss. Buy it here

 

Pregnancy Essentials List + Maternity Must Haves | A list of the pregnancy essential items & maternity must-haves. Being pregnant can be the most wonderful thing & the most intimidating thing - but what I have learned is the more you prepare and embrace it, you can make the most of it! | britstrawbridge.com #pregnancy #pregnancyessentials #maternityessentials #maternityphoto via leachco.com

 

Bra Extenders

 

This is the only item I used, to keep me in ‘non-maternity’ clothes for as long as possible. Before I was having any significant ‘growth’ at all, it was already hard for me to do my bra up. Since bras aren’t the most inexpensive items, getting a few of these bra extenders is worth it…even if you only use them for a few weeks until you get your maternity bras.

 

The Honest Company Prenatal Vitamins

In general, prenatal vitamins are a must – obviously. Prenatal vitamins can be hard on the system & since I get super sick throughout my pregnancies,  The Honest Company vitamins are my top choice since they are coated with ginger to combat the harshness. I have always found taking them before bed works the best if you have a sensitive stomach as well!

 

Pregnancy Essentials List + Maternity Must Haves | A list of the pregnancy essential items & maternity must-haves. Being pregnant can be the most wonderful thing & the most intimidating thing - but what I have learned is the more you prepare and embrace it, you can make the most of it! | britstrawbridge.com #pregnancy #pregnancyessentials #maternityessentials #maternity

 

Robe

Whether it be a maternity one or a regular one, for me a robe is a must. Like I mentioned and pictured above, I wear it every day! During my pregnancy months while I am at home – I am almost always in a robe. It’s pretty much my #ootd unless I have to go out in public. I am totally for getting ready for the day even if you are staying home – but I take 9 months off of that logic. I can’t say enough great things about PinkBlush Maternity robes…they are gorgeous and so comfortable – & then you can look all pretty at the hospital once you give birth! [ Get 10% off your first order when you subscribe to their mailing list! ] This robe is my favourite. If you follow me on Instagram you see it A LOT.

 

Essential Oil Diffuser

I didn’t have a diffuser when I was pregnant with Levi, but I wish I had – I have it running nonstop through my pregnancies. Whether I am struggling with dry skin in the cold months, need some relaxation in my day with some added lavender oil, or in our current case – having a family all sick as dogs, I’ve been constantly running Thieves Oil…so this has been essential. It’s also a must when the baby comes…so two birds.

 

S’well Water Bottle

Keeping hydrated is essential during life, but almost even more so during pregnancy. You will always need to keep a water bottle handy – so why not ditch the plastic & go with something beautifully earth-friendly? They have also partnered with UNICEF to provide clean water to the world’s children in need – so buying a bottle won’t just benefit you but someone else who needs it & that is a wonderful thing.

 

Pregnancy Essentials List + Maternity Must Haves | A list of the pregnancy essential items & maternity must-haves. Being pregnant can be the most wonderful thing & the most intimidating thing - but what I have learned is the more you prepare and embrace it, you can make the most of it! | britstrawbridge.com #pregnancy #pregnancyessentials #maternityessentials #maternity

photo via swell.com

 

Makeup Remover / Cleansing Cloth

Throughout the pregnancy, you will have great days full of vibrancy and energy…& then the not so good days. Some nights the last thing you will want to do is your entire beauty routine before bed…enter the makeup remover cleansing cloths. With just warm water, this natural, reusable cloth will quickly clean your face without needing any soaps & it’s free of chemicals. I have sensitive skin, and this cloth has never given me an issue! Try this makeup remover cleansing cloth…you will be obsessed!

 

Lotion

Dry skin has been a problem area for me during pregnancy, and with a growing belly, it is super important to keep your skin hydrated while it stretches – I thank my lack of stretch marks to keeping moisturized! I use Bella B Natural products in many areas of motherhood (their cradle cap shampoo is magic!), but I especially love using them when pregnant. They are safe for pregnancy & contain natural ingredients; make sure to always check the ingredient list before purchasing body products in any company! My favourite while pregnant is the Tummy Honey Stretchmark Prevention Butter for obvious reasons!

 



 

Nursing / Maternity Bras

Now, I say nursing bra because #1 It is essentially the same design as a maternity bra & #2, if you are going to breastfeed, you don’t have to purchase another bra once the baby comes. Your beloved pushup just won’t do when you grow a few sizes and anything with a wire is pure evil while you’re pregnant. Now, this doesn’t mean you can’t find some lovely maternity bras that are very pretty – but for every day, the thicker straps, wide sides & padding purely for comfort, you won’t get much better support. *Remember when buying your maternity/nursing bras, give yourself room for lots of growth (especially if you are intending to wear it while nursing)

 

The Bump Pregnancy App

 

When you’re pregnant, you will most likely want to know EVERYTHING you can about you & your growing baby. This app will give you a detailed summary of your pregnancy each week, along with the most common questions during your particular stage in pregnancy, along with a 3D interactive feature to show you exactly what your baby would look like in the womb. It is SO informative and a must for pregnant mamas. You can also add a registry as you think of items you would want/need and add photos as your pregnancy progresses!

 

Pregnancy Essentials List + Maternity Must Haves | A list of the pregnancy essential items & maternity must-haves. Being pregnant can be the most wonderful thing & the most intimidating thing - but what I have learned is the more you prepare and embrace it, you can make the most of it! | britstrawbridge.com #pregnancy #pregnancyessentials #maternityessentials #maternity

 

 

EXTRAS

 

Now that I’ve broken down the essentials to help make your pregnancy a breeze, here are some of my favourite extra ‘nice-to-haves’ because…you gotta do a little something special to care for your self too!

 

Box Subscriptions

 

If there was a group for Box Subscriptions Anonymous my husband would most likely force me to join. I LOVE box subscriptions. Curated goodies delivered to your door from some favourite well-known brands and tons of special ones who may have never came across but end up falling in love with. I usually go for the beauty/wellness/self-care ones and they never disappoint!

 

Pregnancy Essentials List + Maternity Must Haves | A list of the pregnancy essential items & maternity must-haves. Being pregnant can be the most wonderful thing & the most intimidating thing - but what I have learned is the more you prepare and embrace it, you can make the most of it! | britstrawbridge.com #pregnancy #pregnancyessentials #maternityessentials #maternity

 

Pregnancy Essentials List + Maternity Must Haves | A list of the pregnancy essential items & maternity must-haves. Being pregnant can be the most wonderful thing & the most intimidating thing - but what I have learned is the more you prepare and embrace it, you can make the most of it! | britstrawbridge.com #pregnancy #pregnancyessentials #maternityessentials #maternity

 

My current fave subscriptions are

 

Bump Boxes + The Truth Beauty Box + FabFitFun

 

Use discount code TBBRIT15 for 15% off at The Truth Beauty Company!

 

Fab Fit Fun

 

Exercise Ball

 

Whether you are a workout junkie, yogi or not…exercise balls are amazing at relieving aching hips! It can even help you during the end of your pregnancy to help reposition baby, or during labour to ease your body during contractions while helping baby move down. The exercise ball is even great for after the baby is born but is refusing to sleep…just bounce them into dreamland. It seems kinda crucial doesn’t it? You can decide if it will be your essential or not! Buy one here!

 

Pregnancy Journal

 

I know this is definitely not a necessity, but if you plan on having more than one baby it really might be beneficial for you! Since my pregnancies are pretty hard, documenting everything gave me some time frames on when to expect what and how my body handles each of the stages. It’s really interesting now to look back at my previous two pregnancies with my boys because my first two were SO similar, and this one is completely different…could it mean something? We will wait and see!! Get this super adorable one from Studio Oh! here!

 

Pregnancy Essentials List + Maternity Must Haves | A list of the pregnancy essential items & maternity must-haves. Being pregnant can be the most wonderful thing & the most intimidating thing - but what I have learned is the more you prepare and embrace it, you can make the most of it! | britstrawbridge.com #pregnancy #pregnancyessentials #maternityessentials #maternity

 

Pregnancy Nutrition Guide

 

Since I get Hyperemesis Gravidarium with all my pregnancies, unfortunately, nutrition isn’t something I can really control, at least for the majority. Most days being able to keep down some toast and apple juice is considered a win. Though once I start feeling better, my nutrition becomes one of my number one concerns! Keeping as healthy as possible will always only positively affect baby (as long as you aren’t shocking your body with diets or restricted eating). If you have great pregnancies, this guide will be so valuable to you throughout the entire 9 months!

 

Pregnancy Essentials List + Maternity Must Haves | A list of the pregnancy essential items & maternity must-haves. Being pregnant can be the most wonderful thing & the most intimidating thing - but what I have learned is the more you prepare and embrace it, you can make the most of it! | britstrawbridge.com #pregnancy #pregnancyessentials #maternityessentials #maternity

 

Being pregnant can be the most wonderful thing & the most intimidating thing – but what I have learned is the more you prepare and embrace it, you can make the most of it! (& this is coming from someone who was in the hospital multiple times throughout all three pregnancies!) But I will always be in awe of the amazing things my body can do!

 

Pregnancy Essentials List + Maternity Must Haves | A list of the pregnancy essential items & maternity must-haves. Being pregnant can be the most wonderful thing & the most intimidating thing - but what I have learned is the more you prepare and embrace it, you can make the most of it! | britstrawbridge.com #pregnancy #pregnancyessentials #maternityessentials #maternity

 

I don’t know who you’ll be

but I know you’ll be

my everything.

 

 

Pregnancy Essentials List + Maternity Must Haves | A list of the pregnancy essential items & maternity must-haves. Being pregnant can be the most wonderful thing & the most intimidating thing - but what I have learned is the more you prepare and embrace it, you can make the most of it! | britstrawbridge.com #pregnancy #pregnancyessentials #maternityessentials #maternity

 

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. I live in my robe and shorts! hahahahaha! Yep! I am 31 weeks pregnant and just can’t be bothered with anything tight around my waist – that’s for sure!

    Reply

  5. I hope they have pregnancy subscription boxes here in my place, too. The excitement it would bring would add spice to my pregnancy life (in the future).

    Reply

  7. I don’t have children so I wouldn’t have a clue about what a pregnant women would need in order to feel more comfortable during the 9 months. before birth. You have covered everything in this post very well, I think it’s a great resource for any woman who just finds out that she is expecting a baby.

    Reply

  8. I couldn’t do a lot of things on my own towards the end of my pregnancy. I was carrying twins and at 39 weeks it got really difficult to sleep because my oven was quite hot! But I enjoyed my pregnancy and luckily I was not sick the entire time. The Box subscriptions will be convenient so enjoy the process 🙂

    Reply

  10. my last pregnancy I was able to have an amazing water birth, I used a diffuser filled with lavender and peace and calming!

    Reply

  11. Good tips. I really liked over the bump jeans and leggings when I was pregnant. Self-care is definitely important – happy mummy, happy baby!

    Reply

  12. Aww, this post brings back memories. Wishing you the best this time around! Looking back i should have invested in some great maternity clothes. However, I bought just one piece and lived in non-maternity leggings and cheer shorts. You can only imagine how stretched out those babies are now… Great read!

    Reply

  13. I have heard so much about Ingrid&Isable. Their clothes are really comfortable to wear perfect for pregnant women.

    Reply

  14. Oh wow, What a great list of pregnancy essentials. I love them all especially the clothes. They look comfy to wear. TBut the most important in this list is the Prenatal Vitamins.

    Reply

  15. Ahan this is what my cousin needs … A good compilation of what are the essential needs. It is actuallly really not a simple process becoming a parent. There is so much that goes into the upbringing and care of the kid.

    Reply

  16. I loved PinkBlush Maternity when I was pregnant! They have the softest clothes and they feel so good on a growing body!

    Reply

  18. I, unfortunately, have not had the experience of being pregnant. We have been trying for over 6 years, and are now starting the adoption path. I can see where this list would be so helpful to anybody who is going through pregnancy. Who knows, maybe one day I will find myself needing it too! 🙂 Thanks for sharing.

    Reply

  20. Clothing is a no brainer and I made all my maternity clothes. Now seems like most women just wear yoga pants and t-shirts. Getting good bras is a must and especially if your going to be nursing.

    Reply

  22. This is a great guide for any new mom. It can be incredibly daunting to know what you need when you first start down the road to mommyhood.

    Reply

  24. I think with my first pregnancy I over did it a little. I think what you mention here is perfect! It gives you what you need without over spending! Congratulation!!

    Reply

  28. Those are a lot of awesome products for people who are pregnant. My daughter used a pregnancy pillow throughout her pregnancy and she said it really helped her feel more rested.

    Reply

  30. I am sharing this with my friends. We are going through a pregnancy spurt. I can’t live without my essential oil diffuser now! lol

    Reply

  33. These are all some really good essentials. I think it’s so important to have some of these. They all really are great and come in handy.

    Reply

  34. This is great. I’ve had 8 babies so I am not thinking of any more pregnancies in my near future! Love seeing what others include for their essentials though!

    Reply

  35. I have never been pregnant but these are some amazing tips. I would have never thought about some of these things such as the oil diffuser

    Reply

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