Second Trimester Essentials
With my second trimester (weeks 14-28) coming to a close, I thought it may be helpful to share with other moms my list of essentials during pregnancy thus far. Being comfortable is key and these things have helped so much. They are things I use on a daily basis this pregnancy and wish I would have known about some of them during my first. I have had a smooth pregnancy thus far and besides the occasional aches and pains, I am very grateful for how I am feeling. This baby is currently moving a TON and is growing so fast now! He will be here in approximately 11 weeks! Here are some of the things that I now consider “must haves” during this stage of life as my body adapts to bring new life into this world.
1. Body wash and belly oil
With such rapid growth, this all-natural skin toning oil and organic moisturizing body wash has been a LIFE saver for me. Once I shower with the body wash, I lather my belly up with the toning oil. It’s especially hydrating and I feel like my skin drinks it right up! It has helped to tone my skin as my belly grows and gets rid of itchy skin. Itchy belly- be gone! So far I haven’t gotten any stretch marks (which is partially genetics) but I also think toning oil and body wash are a powerful duo & have a lot to do with it!
*Helpful hint: if there is a particular spot you are prone to stretch marks, I would focus on putting the toning oil there. Additionally, when my belly is super itchy, I will put a couple drops of this organic rose hip oil for extra moisture. It helps rejuvenate skin and minimize the appearance of scars and wrinkles. I also put a few drops on my face as well. It is a dry oil, so it absorbs into the skin very quickly.
2. Jessica Simpson Maternity Jeans
This is one staple in my wardrobe that I wear almost daily. I tried on many different pairs of jeans while I was on the hunt during my first pregnancy and these are FOR SURE the winner. I loved them so much, I bought the jeans in a size small and medium to accomodate my growth and also a pair in black. These are with getting for sure!
Also, for those first time moms, this belly band has helped me to stay in my normal jeans a bit longer. This holds up your jeans and you don’t even have to button them. I could wear it until about 25 weeks. Its a great invention and I wish I had known about it with my first pregnancy!
3. Workout Clothes
Most people are shocked when they find out I am still leading fitness classes at 29 weeks pregnant. I have to remind them that while you definitely have to be cautious and listen to your body while pregnant, its not like you are disabled or crippled! As long as you are careful/modify when needed and listen to your doctor, you can continue whatever workouts you were doing. I know it can be different for everyone, but in my experience, working out during pregnancy is crucial to keeping my body healthy, the endorphins flowing (lifts my energy/ mood) and helps nurture a baby! It is so good to stay in shape and eat well during pregnancy, not to mention it will help with the labor and recovery process. Here are some of my favorite items to workout in:
- Maternity workout leggings: I have my go-to pair of maternity workout leggings (these are my faaaaves) and these crop ones. Let me tell you, they are a GAME CHANGER. No uncomfortable cutting off of circulation, no marks and no muffin top. A must have!
- Sports bras: Ones that truly do their job! PSA: You’re belly isn’t the only thing that grows! I have found these awesome sports bras that double as nursing bras for after baby arrives. The bras hold you in place, but are still comfortable and not too tight.
- Tanks: These tops are so comfortable and sweat wicking. I love the style of them, they are loose fitting and cover the booty!
4. Comfy pajamas
I think Target has the most comfortable pajamas to sleep in. These are definitely my favorite because they are good quality, SO SOFT & COZY, are easy to nurse in, and you can wear them to lounge around the house. A few other items I love are these pants and these tank sleep sets. These are so soft and comfy to wear to bed. I hope to get a few more comfy sets of pajamas to lounge around in after baby comes!
5. Prenatal Vitamins
Continue taking my pre-natals. These are the best ones I could find and they are approved by my doctor. These are essential to making sure your little one is getting the nutrients they need without depleting your own stores!! I also think these pre-natals are helping my hair, skin and nails get stronger because of all the biotin. I continue taking these the duration of nursing as well.
Well, there you have it folks! My list of necessities from getting through this second pregnancy thus far. It’s been a whirlwind for sure and is flying by! I hope this post will be useful to other newbie or veteran moms alike during pregnancy and beyond! What are some of your favorite items that are useful during pregnancy? Let’s help each other out!
You can also read about my lessons learned as a new mother here, and my newborn baby registry essentials here.
Drop a comment below!
Xoxo, Dorothy
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