Essentials

Pregnancy Preparation: 5 Essential Tools Every Expecting Mom Needs

*below is for educational purposes only

• Prenatal Vitamins

  • Why this matters: Prenatal vitamins are your first step in ensuring that both you and your baby are getting all the nutrients you need. They’re packed with vital ingredients, like folic acid, iron, calcium, and DHA, to support both your health and your baby’s development.

  • What to look for: Choose a prenatal with folic acid (to help prevent neural tube defects) and iron (to prevent anemia). A DHA supplement can be especially important for brain development.

  • My tip: Start taking these vitamins as soon as you can. Ideally, it’s best to begin them at least three months before conception, but it’s never too late to start if you’re already pregnant. Take them with food to minimize nausea.

• Supportive Maternity Clothing

  • Why this matters: Your body is changing, and wearing clothing that provides support can help reduce discomfort. I recommend maternity wear that stretches and grows with you, providing comfort without feeling restrictive.

  • What to choose: Look for maternity bras that offer proper support, soft leggings that won’t dig into your growing belly, and shoes with good arch support to prevent swelling.

  • My tip: Comfort is key! Choose items that are flexible and easy to adjust as your body continues to change. A few key items like a well-fitting bra and supportive pants will make a huge difference.

• Pregnancy Pillow

  • Why this matters: As you near the later stages of pregnancy, sleeping can become difficult. A good pregnancy pillow is a game-changer when it comes to getting the restful sleep you need.

  • What to choose: There are various types, from wedge pillows to full-body ones. A full-body pillow can help support your belly, back, and legs, especially as you sleep on your side.

  • My tip: I recommend sleeping on your left side if you can. It improves blood flow to your baby and helps reduce swelling.

• Hydration Essentials

  • Why this matters: Staying hydrated is vital for your overall health during pregnancy. Drinking enough water helps prevent headaches, fatigue, and swelling, and also supports amniotic fluid levels.

  • What to use: Keep a water bottle with you throughout the day, and aim for about 8-10 glasses of water daily. If you find plain water boring, try infusing it with fruits or herbs to make it more enjoyable.

  • My tip: Carrying a water bottle with you can be a great reminder to stay hydrated, and it’s an easy way to track your intake.

• Comfortable Footwear

  • Why this matters: During pregnancy, your feet can swell, and your posture changes. Wearing shoes that offer support will help with back pain and reduce discomfort as your body adjusts.

  • What to choose: Opt for supportive shoes with cushioning and arch support. Avoid high heels and go for comfortable flats or slip-ons that accommodate swelling.

  • My tip: Slip-on shoes are a lifesaver when your feet swell, and you might find it difficult to bend over to tie laces.

Top 5 Postpartum Essentials: A Doula's Guide to Navigating Early Motherhood

*below is for educational purposes only

• Postpartum Support Belt

  • Why this matters: After childbirth, your body needs support to heal. A postpartum support belt can help your abdomen recover, reduce swelling, and provide comfort as your body returns to its pre-pregnancy state.

  • What to choose: Look for a belt that provides gentle compression and support, especially around your pelvic area and lower back.

  • My tip: You can start wearing this belt once you feel comfortable, typically within a few days after delivery. It’s most helpful when you’re up and moving around, helping your body feel more supported during your daily activities.

• Perineal Care Products

  • Why this matters: After birth, especially if you’ve had tearing or an episiotomy, taking care of your perineal area is essential for healing and comfort.

  • What to use: Keep things gentle with peri bottles for cleaning, witch hazel pads to soothe the area, and ice packs to reduce swelling and discomfort.

  • My tip: Use a peri bottle after each bathroom visit to gently rinse the area. Avoid wiping to minimize irritation, and give yourself extra care to help your body heal.

• Nursing Pads and Comfortable Bras

  • Why this matters: Breastfeeding is a learning process for both you and your baby, and leaking can happen before your body fully adjusts to your baby’s needs. Nursing pads and a good bra will help you feel more comfortable and prepared.

  • What to choose: Soft, absorbent nursing pads are essential, and a nursing bra with easy access is a must. Look for bras that offer good support without being too tight or restrictive.

  • My tip: I recommend having a few nursing pads on hand in your bag and wearing a supportive, soft bra that you can easily adjust while feeding. It will make all the difference in feeling comfortable during those early weeks.

• Baby Carrier or Sling

  • Why this matters: A baby carrier or sling allows you to keep your baby close, which is great for bonding and for keeping your hands free. It’s especially helpful when you need to attend to household tasks or run errands.

  • What to choose: Find a carrier that offers proper support for both you and your baby, and is adjustable to fit your body comfortably.

  • My tip: Start with short periods of use to get comfortable with the carrier and help your baby adjust to being close to you. A good carrier will support your back and shoulders while allowing you to keep your baby close and calm.

• Meal Delivery or Pre-Made Meals

  • Why this matters: As a new mom, it’s easy to neglect your own nutrition while focusing on your baby. Having pre-made meals or meal delivery options can save you time and energy, ensuring you eat nourishing meals during your recovery.

  • What to choose: Consider preparing freezer meals ahead of time, or look into meal delivery services that cater to new moms. Nourishing snacks (like granola bars, fruit, and nuts) should also be within easy reach.

  • My tip: Stock your freezer with healthy, easy-to-heat meals before your baby arrives. And don’t hesitate to accept help from friends or family who offer to bring meals during your first few weeks postpartum.