So I made it through my first trimester. In fairness, I’ve been so so lucky and I really do feel for those who have terrible morning sickness and other debilitating symptoms. But still, I don’t think many pregnancies are easy, and we all need a few little crutches to help us through each stage and so I thought I would share the bits and pieces that I found really helpful.
What to Expect When You’re Expecting by Heidi Murkoff – £9.00 at Amazon
As this is my first pregnancy, I’ll admit to being a bit clueless. I have fab friends and family around me, so there are lots of people to ask if I have any queries, but sometimes if you want to know something then and there, it’s good to have some facts at home. This book is really comprehensive. It takes you through the pregnancy week by week but also has a full index, so you can read about the week you are currently in, but can also look up any concerns directly.
My Nook
I’ve had a fair few early nights due to the tiredness, so my Nook has been my bestie – I think I’ve read about a book a week so far.
Hot water bottle – £12.99 at Boots
I had a fair few stomach cramps in my first trimester, so Mr M bought me a lovely soft, furry hot water bottle, which really helped with the pains and is quite comforting to take to bed.
This Works Deep Sleep Pillow Spray – £16.00 at This Works
Due partly to those cramps and also to the constant need to wee, sleep has been a bit hit and miss so far. I had a sample of this spray, and it’s divine. It smells gorgeous and really helps with restless nights.
Camomile and decaf tea
Before I got pregnant, I’d been on the Results With Lucy eating programme, so I’d cut out caffeine for three months. as you’re meant to limit your caffeine intake while pregnant, this was a great preparation. I still like a hot drink though and camomile tea is my absolute fave.
Ginger Nuts
As I said, I was lucky enough to largely avoid morning sickness (*touches wood), but I did feel really nauseous and faint when I first woke up for most of my first trimester (still do some days). And I found that having a glass of water and taking a few Ginger Nuts to eat on the way to the stables really helped with this. Although probably didn’t do much for my waistline.
Vitabiotics Pregnacare Original vitamins – £11.69 for 90 at Boots
I’m doing my best to ensure I’m eating healthily and getting what the baby needs from my food, but I’ve also been taking the Pregnacare vitamins each day just to be sure. There seems to be so much that you need in your diet, that I think this helps to make sure you’re not missing anything. these include 19 vitamins and minerals, as well as folic acid, zinc, vitamin D etc.
Stretch Mark Oil – £5.10 at Boots
I started to use stretch mark lotions and potions as soon as I found out I was expecting. Who knows if this will help, or if you are just reliant on your genetics, but it’s worth a try and can’t do any harm. The Boots Stretch Mark Oil is the best I’ve used so far. It’s not too expensive, soaks in easily and doesn’t take ages to dry, leaving you wafting around before you can get dressed.
What helped you through your first three months of pregnancy?
