Confessions of a Pregnant Shopaholic: Give Me all the baby Cuteness!

Yay! You’re pregnant!

Congratulations!

But even though being pregnant is lovely and miraculous, there are still many, teeny-tiny things we must consider during this blossoming process.

The truth is that you don’t really need much more to have a healthy baby than a balanced diet and regular doctor’s visits, but there are a few pregnant must-haves that will make the process healthier and more comfortable for you and your little loved one.

And, let’s face it, shopping can be so much fun—especially when shopping for the cutest little baby things.

The baby is in your womb for only nine months, so you don’t want to spend excessively or stock up all at once! However, there are a few inexpensive goods that can make it a bit easier for you to get through your pregnancy.

Stick around and read all the way to the finish because we’ll be giving you the top pregnancy must-haves that you’ll need to ease the journey!

Let’s jump in!

Absolute Pregnant Must-Haves: Prenatal Vitamins

Pregnant woman taking her prenatal with water

Prenatal vitamins are recommended for all pregnant women, even though it is possible to survive pregnancy without taking them. This is because it is a little challenging to get all the nutrients you need for your unborn baby’s growth from your food.

During pregnancy, you must have sufficient vitamins and minerals such as folic acid, iron, and calcium.

We understand that you only want to ingest prenatal vitamins that have been approved by a doctor. We’re here to help, and we’re going to explain some dos and don’ts about nutrition throughout pregnancy.

Vitamin C

We both know that your unborn child requires a variety of vitamins and nutrients for healthy growth and development in your womb.

Vitamin C is one of these vitamins.

Because Vitamin C helps the body produce collagen, your body needs more Vitamin C while you are pregnant.

Collagen is a structural protein that is present in your bones, skin, muscles, and tendons.

In addition, Vitamin C plays a crucial role in maintaining the health of both your and your baby’s immune systems. While your unborn child is developing, they will require plenty of Vitamin C to ensure a healthy immune system.

Don’t Overdo It

It is possible to have too many vitamins and other nutrients in your body. The last thing you want to do while you’re expecting is to take too many vitamins.

You should avoid taking certain vitamins in excess since they could be hazardous to both you and your unborn child.

Consume Appropriate Amounts of Vitamin E

Vitamin E is a great supplement to take every day while you are pregnant. It is a necessary vitamin that your body needs throughout pregnancy. Vitamin E is an antioxidant, and as such, it safeguards cell membranes by neutralizing free radicals.

But you mustn’t take too much of it. When consumed in large quantities, vitamin E acts as a blood thinner. Please take this into consideration.

Don’t Take Too Much Calcium

You’ve probably heard that calcium is necessary to support the development of strong bones and teeth but taking too many calcium supplements while you’re expecting a child isn’t a smart idea.

Your body can’t effectively handle calcium if you consume too much of it. You should also refrain from taking your calcium supplement with meals that are heavy in fiber.

The quantity of calcium that your body can absorb is decreased when it is consumed with high-fiber foods. If your body can’t absorb it, you will have less calcium available for the baby.

Do Your Research

Finding the best prenatal vitamin and mineral supplements might be challenging, but one of our top pieces of pregnancy advice is to do your homework before taking any prenatal food supplements. The mere fact that a product makes the claim to be prenatal doesn’t mean it has all the ingredients necessary for a healthy pregnancy.

Before making your purchase, make sure it is a prenatal supplement that has been recommended by a doctor and check the components through your research. Throughout the nine months, you’ll need extra vitamins for both you and your unborn child.

Recommended Prenatal Vitamins for Expecting Mothers

You might be unsure about where to look for prenatal supplements.

Now that we’ve talked about the dos and don’ts, take a look at the following list of prenatal supplements that might be of help to you.

Nordic Naturals — If you have a sensitive stomach and need to take some real vitamin therapy, this supplement might be right for you. The American Pregnancy Association has certified it and it contains preservative chemicals. It supports the baby’s brain and eye health, which is good for expectant and nursing mothers.

Nordic Naturals – Prenatal DHA, Supports Brain Development in Babies During Pregnancy and Lactation
Mama Bird Prenatal Multivitamins
Ritual Multi-Vitamins Essential for Women Prenatal

To learn more about Prenatal and OBGYN Recommended Options Read our Blog:

Good Skincare

When you learn you’re expecting, so much in your life changes. And that may also apply to your skincare products.

You shouldn’t be surprised if you have to stop using your go-to skin care products because you get a rash or have dryness, peeling, itching, and other skin issues brought on by pregnancy. So, it’s not just your favorite wine that might have to go on hold (sorry!). But as you know, you aren’t just taking action for yourself in regards to your body, but also for your unborn child.

Skincare and prenatal vitamin and mineral supplements that doctors prescribe are wonderful ways to maintain your skin health. See them below!

Sunscreen for that Outer Glow:

The greatest approach to being safe and worry-free is to protect your skin while allowing your body to do its best to keep you cool. Hopefully, you’ve already come to the conclusion that sunscreen should be used year-round.

Your top priority should always be shielding your skin, and that of your loved ones, from harmful UV rays. With these products, which are advised by doctors, you can enjoy the sun without discomfort or harmful effects.

Skin Glow of a Goddess

Mama Bee Belly Butter — This body oil works wonders on stretch marks and acne scars during pregnancy. This oil contains a lot of vitamins A and E. The rich combination of goodness in Bio-oil, which combines lavender oil, chamomile oil, and rosemary oil, instantly heals your skin. This convenient non-greasy solution was created for you. By deeply permeating the skin, it aids in the profound fading of scars. The balancing of skin tones is another benefit of this bio-oil. The best moisturizer for pregnant women and the safest option is bio-oil. The best solution for stretch marks and acne scars is Bio-oil.

To learn more about the importance of skincare and OBGYN Recommended Options Read our Blog:

Belly Support Band | A Pregnancy Must Have for Comfort!

bell support band is a pregnancy must have

This is one of the most widely recommended products you should use to relieve the symptoms associated with your lovely, expanding tummy. Three neutral hues—naked, black, and white—are available for the NeoTech Care Pregnancy Support Maternity Belt.

Back discomfort typically starts to manifest during the end of the second trimester or the start of the third trimester. This pain can significantly impede daily activities for many women.

By supporting your pelvis and preserving your center of gravity, the band helps you keep your balance. Back discomfort, as well as hip and abdominal pain, can lessen as a result, allowing you to carry out daily activities with greater ease.

NeoTech Care Pregnancy Support Maternity Belt

Here are the features:

It may be fully adjusted to support belly development during pregnancy. New strong hook and loop fabric closures are featured.
It has an elastic inner and breathable fabric made of a multilayered laminate.
It is made to be used while standing or walking. When seated, you remove the hook-and-loop closure.
By spreading pressure more equally across the surface area of the back support covers, it supports the lower back.

Not ready to invest in a whole band? Try tape!

Pregnancy Pillow

As a mother-to-be, you really need to be mindful of how you sleep.

As the months go by and your baby develops in your womb, it becomes impossible to sleep on your stomach.

However, sleeping on your back is not advised because it can put too much pressure on your blood vessels. The only other option is to sleep on your side, but that will be uncomfortable.

This discomfort might make it difficult for you to get a decent night’s sleep. A whole-body pillow is designed to provide support exactly where you need it, and it allows you to find a comfortable sleeping position for your head, tummy, limbs, and shoulders.

The U-shaped design of the PharMeDoc Organic Pregnancy Pillow makes it a good item to use because it is designed to relieve pressure on your joints and lessen muscle pain.

11 Pregnancy Essentials for a Comfortable Nine Months

Maternity Clothing/Swimsuit:

It could be challenging for you to find maternity clothing that fits comfortably, without sacrificing on style. When it comes to styling your bump, keep the following products in mind:

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Extra Assistance

Movable straps and elastic bands work to keep you comfortable and supported. Items such as stretchy breastfeeding bras (Yes, we know it’s a bit early for that, but trust us. Boy, are they comfortable!), support tops, and high-rise leggings are everyday pregnancy must-haves.

Soft and Comfortable Material

Maternity clothing should neither sag nor feel too tight, but it should be flexible enough to fit your expanding belly.

Shop pregnancy swimsuits on Amazon:

For maternity swimsuits in every style check the link below!

Pregnancy Books

Books may not seem like a high-priority item on your pregnant must haves list but they can help you on your journey as a new parent!

First-Time Mom’s Pregnancy Journal

It’s important to remember the nine-month magical adventure that comes with being pregnant. To keep everything in order, including ultrasound reports, you need a well-organized journal.

We advise using a pregnancy diary. It should have reminders, inspirational quotes, checklists for each trimester, and an appointment tracker.

It makes life better organized and gives you a place to joyfully document everything.

The Must-Have Pregnancy Cookbook

You’ve probably read that cravings for different foods increase during pregnancy. You may eat everything you want and feel satisfied, but you must pay attention to your nutritional needs.

There are numerous pregnancy cookbooks available that contain a ton of scrumptious, healthy recipes. As a professional, I’d suggest getting it.

It is easier to keep track of recipes that are all in one place. It will save you time understanding the nutritional value of your meals.

Cookbooks for expectant mothers explain the nutrients expectant mothers need and provide dietary recommendations for each month of pregnancy as well as for postpartum recovery.

The First Time Dad’s Pregnancy Handbook

Having children for the first time can be demanding for a first-time dad. As her partner, you are expected to comprehend your wife’s journey and support her in every way. This could be difficult if you don’t know your role as a father.

That is why we advise a first-time expectant couple to get a pregnancy handbook. The First Time Dad’s Handbook covers every step of the journey, including how the father can give support. Suggestions for the father’s role include scheduling appointments and offering emotional support to the mother. Also, it gives crucial parenting information.

Particularly with your partner’s support, the nine-month journey can be a wonderful experience.

Pregnancy Hacks: 350+ Easy Hacks for a Happy and Healthy Pregnancy

Despite a healthy diet, pregnancy food supplements, scheduled appointments, and regular exercise, you’ll probably have some issues due to the many hormonal and physical changes you are experiencing.

It is helpful in these situations to have access to tips and tricks. In this book, you’ll find a wide range of advice for expectant mothers to do with everything from daily routines and nutritional needs, to obtaining a decent night’s sleep and keeping a healthy work–life balance.

What do I need for a baby?

As a mother-to-be, you’ll need to prepare for the baby’s arrival.

Here are the essential items you’ll need below:

Important Baby Wardrobe Items

4–8 one-pieces (envelope folds at the shoulders and snaps at the crotch)
4–8 sets of pajamas
1–3 rompers or other play clothes
1–3 coats or sweaters (front buttoned)
4–7 pairs of socks or booties. (Shoes are not necessary until the child can walk).
Mitts for no scratches
Wearable blankets or swaddles
Fleece jacket or a bunting bag for the cold
Both light and substantial stroller covers
Gentle laundry soap

Baby Diapering Necessities

At first, changing a diaper might seem difficult, but we promise you’ll get the hang of it. These baby essentials will also make it easier for you to learn:

2–3 substantial boxes of disposable newborn-size diapers, or six to ten dozen cloth diapers and six to eight diaper covers
1–2 substantial boxes of unscented baby wipes
2 substantial tubes of diaper cream
Baby bag

Additional Baby Bath Essentials

Once you have control of that slippery baby, bath time can be a ton of fun. Best to come equipped with all the necessary gear. The following items are a baby’s bath time necessity:

Infant bathtub
Baby body wash and baby shampoo
2–4 baby towels with hoods
Comfy towels
Baby Lotion

Essentials for Baby Feeding

Be ready to feed your infant very frequently, whether by breastfeeding or bottle-feeding. You’ll need a ton of baby supplies. The following are crucial to stock up:

8–10 bottles (4 and 8 ounce) and nipples
A brush for bottles
Dishwashing basket for little things
Formula (if not breastfeeding)
Breast pump (if you plan to breastfeed)
Bags for storing milk (if you plan to breastfeed)
Nursing napkins / burp cloths (if you plan to breastfeed)
Nipple lotion (if you plan to breastfeed)
Chair high
4–8 bibs
4–8 boxes of baby wipes

Infant Health Basics

Babies require grooming even when they’re newborns. For any first-time mom this can be a stressful time, but grooming supplies, even those ever-scary nail clippers, are a must have. Additionally, you’ll want to have the appropriate baby necessities on hand in case your infant gets sick. Check out the following:

Nail file or baby nail clippers
Baby temperature gauge
First-aid supply
Soft brush for cradle caps
Teething rings (optional)

Baby Clothes

Sizes newborn and 0-3 months are designed to accommodate infants between the ages of 0 and 3 months (ish). Some babies may be prepared to wear a size 3-6 right away. It might be necessary to roll up the sleeves, but only temporarily as your baby will grow very quickly.

Instead of depending just on the size on the label, it’s wise to compare clothing to other items you currently own because sizes vary between clothing types and brands. Cute baby clothes may not seem like a pregnancy must have but they are a definite want.

Considering how quickly babies develop, you might want to get the fewest possible items in each size.

Ma&Baby Summer Romper Floral — Ain’t no Mama like my Mama Pants Set

Check out this collection of baby outfits to see what might work for you in the interim!

So Many Pregnant Must Haves!

As a shopaholic, this will help you make purposeful decisions when purchasing the many items that your soon-to-be-born baby will need!

We look forward to seeing you on your next appointment!

pregnancy must haves for hospital checklist

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