For the last 10+ years, I’ve been traveling around the world and living (mostly) out of a suitcase.
As someone that travels so frequently, I’ve found products that make long-haul journeys more comfortable, travel-friendly skincare products to keep me fresh on the road, and all sorts of gadgets and gizmos to help my workflow as a digital nomad.
However, when I found out I was pregnant, this was a completely different ball game.
I experienced such a variety of emotions — from joy to fear to absolute panic. I started reading up on anything and everything pregnancy-related. This was entirely new territory for me and I went from being an expert in something to feeling completely unprepared.
Sometimes you have to live an experience to fully understand the advice you can find online. But, I’ve documented my journey of what to expect in your first trimester and your second trimester of pregnancy to help new moms navigate this chapter in their lives.
I’m hoping I can help other moms by sharing some of the things that have helped me throughout my pregnancy.
Here are my favorite products to use while pregnant!
Products for the First Trimester of Pregnancy
Your first trimester of pregnancy can be rough. I was extremely nauseous and completely exhausted pretty much the entire first trimester. I also quickly put on about 15 pounds and my boobs swelled to twice their size seemingly overnight. I didn’t expect to need to shop for a new bra or underwear so soon.
It can be a huge adjustment for anyone!
Grow With Me Undies
Kindred Bravely
These stretchy undies are made to grow with you throughout pregnancy and postpartum. They’re breathable, soft, and adapt to your body as it changes.
Nursing Bra
Kindred Bravely
My torso expanded so quickly that I needed a new bra almost immediately. This bra is designed with pregnancy and postpartum in mind. Even though it’s a nursing bra, it was my go-to bra for pregnancy. It also comes with an extender for growing bellies.
Helpful Tip
Get lots of fiber in your system with lots of water EVERY day. Hemorrhoids are very common in pregnancy so you want to do whatever you can to keep your gut in check.
Liquid Prenatal
If you’re nauseous, this is a liquid prenatal. While it’s not the BEST prenatal out there, something is better than nothing — especially if you’re having a difficult time keeping nutrition down.
Non-Toxic Skincare/Beauty Products
- Cleanser/Toner/Serums/Moisturize: I swapped full to Laurel Skin once I was pregnant. They’re a local CA brand and fully plant-based skincare line.
- Tinted Super Serum/Mascara/Blush/Lip Mask: I also use mostly all ILIA, which is a clean beauty brand
Non-Toxic Pregnancy Toiletries
Most of these things I was already using as I love sticking to clean beauty and as many organic/non-toxic products as possible.
The belly butter lotion and belly oil are huge in the stretch-mark prevention department…or at least *hoping* to lessen them.
For Baths
- Epsom Salts: Taking Epsom salt baths throughout pregnancy can help skin, digestion, and aches and pains. They can also help with nausea.
- Bath Thermometer: You want to make sure your water temp is safe, so a bath thermometer is a great idea!
More on the Blog:
What to Expect During Your First Trimester of Pregnancy
From pre-pregnancy things to a week-by-week breakdown, here’s what to expect during your first trimester of pregnancy!
Products for the Second Trimester of Pregnancy
You may have heard it before, but for many women, the second trimester can be the honeymoon period of pregnancy. I personally felt my best during this period. My nausea had subsided and my bump grew so I was finally out of the weird phase of not quite looking pregnant but feeling very pregnant phase.
You’ll likely need to shop for some new clothes in this trimester and may find that sleeping starts to get uncomfortable.
Maternity Shorts
Kindred Bravely
These maternity shorts are KEY to preventing chafing between the thighs.
Organic Pregnancy Pillow
I started using a pregnancy pillow and it helped to elevate me slightly so my acid reflux wasn’t as bad at night and helped me to remain on my side while sleeping.
I was on the fence about buying this, but no regrets here! Anything sleep-related, I’ll splurge on because we spend so much of our lives in bed. It’s also one of the only non-toxic pillows I could find!
The Fresh Test for Gestational Diabetes Testing
The normal Glucosa drink they give you is pretty gross and full of artificial yuckies. The Fresh Test is an FDA-approved natural option you can use instead of the typical Glucosa drink.
I’d recommend getting approval from your provider/OBGYN ahead of your test. Unfortunately, the UC system is very strict with lab procedures and I couldn’t use it — but I hope that others can! It’s a way better option, in my opinion.
Compression Socks
Airline VS Around the House
Around the House: I use lighter support compression socks that are 10-15mmHg.
For Travel: I prefer firmer support (20-30mmHG) open toe compression socks (when they’re stronger compression—it’s just more comfortable).
Non-Toxic Tanner
We went on our babymoon to Cabo during my second trimester, and this mama needed a bit of a glow! I love that this is a non-toxic buildable tanner — here’s the Non-Toxic Face Tanner and for an all-over sunkissed glow: Non-Toxic Body Tanner.
3” 100% Natural Latex Mattress Topper
We have a firmer mattress (Avocado Organic) and, since starting to sleep on my side, the topper has been a game-changer to relieve pressure on my hips and shoulders.
Massage Tools
These have been super helpful for rolling my back and hips (which are EXTREMELY tight).
My Favorite Shoes for Pregnancy
Kiziks were my go-to white sneaker before pregnancy and honestly, they’re perfect if you’re pregnant.
Initially recommended to me by my chiropractor when I was having serious issues with my lower back and I physically couldn’t bend over to tie my shoes (pre-pregnancy), Kiziks are a dream as you can just slip them on.
You literally step into the shoe and they come in a standard and wide width for growing feet.
No need to tie or untie, or bend over to pull them on or off. They’re designed to slip on easily, while still being extremely fashionable. Plus, they’re VERY comfortable. I swear by these sneakers.
Use code “THEBLONDEABROAD10” for 10% off your order!
My Favorite Maternity Clothing Brands
Here are some of the top maternity brands that were either recommended to me numerous times, ones that I personally shopped at, or places that I think have super cute styles.
Helpful Tip
Rather than spend a ton of money on clothes that are only going to fit you for a few months, look for brands that sell styles that fit with or without a bump. You can also rent maternity clothes! Check out companies like Rent the Runway, Le Tote, Stitch Fix, and Mine for Nine.
More on the Blog:
Cute Maternity Outfit Ideas for the Stylish Mama
I think what I love most is that so many of the styles I’ve found below are meant to fit you with or without a bump. I really dislike the idea of buying things that I know will only fit me for a few months of my life.
What to Expect in Your Second Trimester of Pregnancy
From what to expect to things to plan for and take care of — here’s all you need to know about the second trimester of pregnancy!
Products for the Third Trimester of Pregnancy
Your third trimester is uncomfortable for entirely new reasons. You’re gonna be your biggest and may start to get aches and pains. Personally, I was pretty miserable from about 32 weeks on. I had already gained about 40 pounds by then and the extra weight made it uncomfortable to do just about anything. My reflux also got so bad I was constantly popping Tums.
Every pregnancy is different, but I was in survivable mode at this point and looking for anything that would help me move easier and sleep better!
Natural Tums
These were my best friend and I took them with me everywhere. Very necessary, very helpful.
Wedge Pillow for Belly
In case you ever wanted to feel like you were sleeping on a wedge of cheese… But seriously — this pillow helps relieve pregnancy discount which is ever-persistent in the third trimester. Tuck it between your knees, behind your back, or use it to support your belly.
Exercise Ball
Both my doula and my chiropractor recommended getting an exercise stability ball. They’re great for rotating my hips and to help encourage your hips to open up.
Ultra Cushioned Sandals
These are seriously comfy when you’re starting to feel your heaviest. I wear them with my light compression socks around the house and feel serious relief in my legs and hips. They are clunky so I definitely don’t recommend them for walks outside of the home as they could be a trip hazard, but follow the instructions to use a hairdryer to custom fit them and you’ll be walking on clouds!
Bonus
Cooling Towel
If you’re pregnant in the summer or run hot, these towels are a game-changer. I traveled to Egypt late in my pregnancy (30 weeks) and some days were a whopping 108+ degrees.
Have you found any products that made pregnancy more comfortable for you or things you loved? Please share in the comments below!
