Having been through four pregnancies now, I’ve learned that most “pregnancy must-have” lists can actually be broken down into a few key items.
There are so many products on the market aimed at pregnancy and beyond, but in my opinion, most of them are a matter of deep personal preference or are otherwise body-specific (I’m looking at you, bra extenders). I’m definitely someone who prefers to keep things simple.
Here are four absolute necessities I don’t think I could survive another pregnancy without:
1. Targeted Nutrition for Pregnancy and Beyond
During pregnancy, your body tends to prioritize the needs of your growing baby ahead of your own, and this can definitely leave you feeling a little…well, depleted. 🫠 You are growing an actual HUMAN, after all!
This is where prenatal nutrition comes in. Needed focuses on making sure you get exactly what you need in an optimal form, with a whole line of prenatal supplementation designed to nourish your baby and your changing body.
Here are their prenatals, which I love:
Prenatal Multi Essentials
For that rough first trimester when hormones and morning sickness take over, Needed helps you stay nourished with the essentials without making you feel worse than you already feel. 🤢
Divide them throughout the day and you’re getting 23 vitamins and minerals for the health, development, and growth of your baby, as well as support for mama’s hormones, energy, and immunity.
Prenatal Multi Capsules
Once you can stomach an actual pill, Needed offers their Multi Capsules, their most complete prenatal supplement with 24 vitamins and minerals in highly supportive doses.
They are bound to Glycine, which helps with absorption and makes them easy to digest—no unnecessary fillers. I personally love that they use methylated Folate which I prefer over Folic Acid for absorption.
These capsules are ideal for every step of the pregnancy journey, from trying to conceive through the postpartum period.
Prenatal Multi Powder
If you aren't a fan of pills or you just prefer to get your nutrition through food, they offer a powder that is just as effective with 24 vitamins and minerals.
With organic ingredients and monk fruit extract to sweeten it, the vanilla flavor is perfect for adding to a smoothie, protein shake, or even baking into muffins.
This is an easy one to incorporate into your postpartum lifestyle, too, when nursing a baby leaves you feeling hungrier than ever (why does no one ever warn you about that?).
And did I mention that each of these products are vegetarian? 🥦
2. Belly Oil for Itchy Skin and Stretch Marks
While I don’t mind the appearance of my stretch marks (scars of honor), I strongly dislike the itch that comes with them!
The best thing you can do is lather your belly up after bathing (or really anytime you feel the itch) with a lightweight belly oil that moisturizes as it soothes your skin. Bonus: it can double as a massage oil for your tired feet!
I love the organic ingredients in this one by C and the Moon.
3. Pregnancy Survival Guides
Pregnancy is somehow equal parts weird symptoms and waiting around. The best thing you can do in the meantime is educate yourself by reading a book or downloading an app that tracks your pregnancy for you. I personally love the daily encouragement I get from pregnancy apps!
Knowing that my little one is growing just a little bit more each week always puts my mind at ease. Plus, I like having a convenient baby countdown. Pro tip: don’t rely too heavily on that due date because babies sure do come on their own time!
4. Comfortable Clothes That Last Through All Four Trimesters
Pregnancy can get downright uncomfortable, but the right outfit can make all the difference.
When it comes to clothing, my number one tip is: don’t be afraid to go bigger. Of course, you want to be cute sometimes, but when you’re lounging around the house, some next-size-up loungewear makes everything better.
Try to find pieces that can last beyond pregnancy and pull double-duty for nursing. An oversized tee shirt with a nursing cami underneath is my ideal outfit to conceal a nursing baby (and postpartum belly) while staying comfortable!
Hatch makes lots of super cozy options. ☁️
You Got This, Mama
There’s a lot to look forward to when you’re expecting, but taking care of yourself is so important. Pregnancy involves way more than just a cute baby at the end! 😉 Remember to STAY NOURISHED during all of this - your body is going through a lot.
Finding the right products that can help you relax and enjoy the ride makes all the difference.
