Let’s be real for a second. There are so many recommendations out there for pregnancy must-haves, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.
I was right there with you, wondering if I really needed half of the things people were suggesting.
The truth is, a few carefully chosen items can go a long way in helping you feel more comfortable and prepared in the first trimester.
Before you write them off, let me show you how these essentials can make this journey a little easier!
No Empty Bellies
One of the best tips I have for that first trimester nausea is to keep your belly full! Yes, mama, you should eat!
Staying on top of your hunger pangs is super important during the first trimester. Once you start getting hunger, the nausea sneaks in.
Be sure to keep easy snacks on-the-go for when you’re beginning to feel hungry. Great options are jerky sticks, nuts, and crackers.
Anti Nausea Products
Morning sickness typically starts around 6 weeks and typically ends around 12 – 14 weeks.
So if you’re feeling queasy, anti-nausea products are an absolute lifesaver during the first trimester.
Ginger candies or Preggy-Pops are a classic go-to, but don’t forget to try magnesium supplements or acupressure wristbands like Sea-Bands. They can make a huge difference in calming that constant wave of nausea.
If scents work for you, sniffing peppermint or lemon essential oil can bring instant relief.
If these products aren’t helping decrease your nausea, you can always talk to your provider about getting something stronger.
Rest!
Do you know how much energy it takes to grow a whole human?? You’re going to be just a littllllle tired.
Be sure to give yourself grace and rest as much as possible. The first trimester won’t last long, so let other family members pick up the slack or try not to worry too much about the things you normally get done around the house.
Taking naps, going to bed earlier or sleeping in on the weekends will absolutely help with the first trimester.
A Newborn, Maternity and/or Birth Photographer
It’s never too early to start looking for your newborn, maternity, or birth photographer!
Photographers who specialize in these areas tend to book up fast, so getting a jump start in your first trimester ensures you snag the best fit (plus, you’ll have time to research what to look for).
At this point, my calendar for birth photography fills up about 6 months in advance, so keep this in mind when looking for any quality photographer.
Curious as to why you would want a birth photographer? Check out my blog, Why Choose Birth Photography?
Decide how to take your weekly bump pictures
Start your weekly bump pics early!
It’s a fun way to capture your pregnancy journey, even when that little bump isn’t quite showing yet.
Plus, you will love seeing the changes over time!
A simple way to begin is choosing a spot with good natural light, wearing the same outfit for consistency, and using a tripod or asking a friend for help.
Some moms use a fruit to show the size of their baby each week, which is a fun idea (just make sure you plan ahead so you have that fruit ready to go).
To stay consistent – try tying your weekly bump pic in with something you’re already doing every week. Like Monday morning before work or Saturday after getting home from the farmer’s market.
Start early, and by the time your belly pops, you’ll have a whole timeline of your baby’s growth!
Bonus tip: Use the timer mode on your phone for easy self-portraits!
While researching for this blog post, I came across some suggestions (as a mom of two) that I actually think you can skip in the 1st trimester:
Skip the stretch mark cream: as I did more research on this I found out this is mostly genetic anyway. Sure, use some lotion you already have on your belly as it grows but I would skip on the expensive stretch mark cream.
As for maternity clothes, you’ve got time! Most don’t need them until late in the second trimester, and you can totally make your current wardrobe work by using belly bands or opting for flowy dresses.
As you go about you first trimester, remember to ultimately give yourself grace! It’s a short period of time and it’s ok if you’re slowing down a bit. Take care of yourself and that growing baby!
Whether you’re currently in your 1st trimester or just planning ahead, remember that these simple must-haves can make a world of difference in how you feel and capture these early moments.
If you’re looking to document these precious moments, take a peek at my Oklahoma City Birth Photography portfolio.
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