20 Must-Have Pregnancy Essentials

Whether you’re going through your first or third pregnancy, every expecting mother needs to have her arsenal of pregnancy essentials. From pregnancy books to skincare products to comfortable apparel, we’ve compiled all the must-have pregnancy essentials for every mom-to-be!

Must-have pregnancy essentials

Here are all the main things you’ll need for pregnancy separated by trimester, so you can prepare properly for each one.

1st Trimester Essentials

The first trimester of your pregnancy will already bring on changes to your body. You’ll likely be experiencing some morning sickness, sensitive breasts, and mood fluctuations from the hormone change your body goes through. On top of that, once you’re pregnant, you have to be mindful of the products you use, such as skincare and household cleaning items.

Here are the main pregnancy essentials for the first trimester:

Pregnancy Books

It can help to read books on pregnancy that will aid you in understanding how your body is changing and what to expect, from cravings to symptoms to birth and post-partum. Here are some popular pregnancy books:

• Expecting Better
• Mayo Clinic Guide to a Healthy Pregnancy
• Expecting 411
• I’m Pregnant! A Week-by-Week Guide from Conception to Birth

Prenatal Vitamins

You may already know that pregnancy vitamins are recommended to take before you’re pregnant to try and conceive. Prenatals are a multi-vitamin containing all of the minerals and vitamins your body needs to help grow the baby. Consult with your OB/GYN on which pregnancy vitamins they recommend for you.

Water, water, and more water!

Of course, we all know how essential drinking enough water is to any human being, but this is especially important for expectant mothers. While the average person needs 8 cups of water per day, it’s closer to 10 cups for pregnant women. Try picking out a reusable steel or glass water bottle (BPA-free) to carry with you everywhere and refill.

Stretch mark body butter

Your stomach and chest will already begin to grow in the first trimester. It’s best to choose early on what type of non-toxic lotion or cream you want to use throughout your pregnancy. We highly recommend our Mama’s Little Helper Bump & Body Butter, which contains olive and jojoba oil, shea butter, and bergamot, sweet orange, and rosehip essential oils.

A pregnancy skincare routine

While pregnant, you’ll have to change up your regular skincare routine for one that’s less toxic and safer for both you and your growing baby. As the #1 pregnancy skincare line, we’ve developed several products for expectant mothers that are completely safe to use and will give you bright, glowing skin. We recommend starting with our 3-step routine and also be sure to read our article on developing a pregnancy-safe skincare routine, including which ingredients to avoid.

2nd Trimester Essentials

As you move along into to second trimester, you’ll notice even bigger changes. You also may have an increased need for comfort as the baby becomes bigger. Here are pregnancy essentials for the second trimester:

Body pillow

As your stomach grows, you increasingly need to take breaks and naps (your body is working hard, after all!). That is where a body pillow is useful. It is a long, thin, flexible pillow that women can customize to fit around their bodies at any stage in the pregnancy, and even after once the baby is born. Having a body pillow helps you sleep more comfortably and even alleviates pain in your back, neck, and more.

Maternity clothes

The second trimester when you may start noticing your clothes becoming a little snug-fitting. Luckily, there are many brands dedicated to developing comfortable maternity wear for moms-to-be. Think stretchy pants, jeans with an elastic waistband, and roomy dresses and tops. Who said expectant mothers can’t be both comfortable and stylish?

You can find a list of affordable, stylish maternity brands here.

Belly support band

As your stomach grows and becomes heavier, it can put a huge strain on your back. Many pregnant women swear by belly support bands, which help alleviate lower abdomen and back pain by supporting your growing bump. You can see a collection of some of the most highly recommended belly support bands here.

Compression socks

Compression socks are specifically designed to apply pressure to your lower legs and feet to improve blood circulation and reduce swelling. Pregnant women should definitely invest in a pair to help improve blood flow in the body and to help with feet and ankle swelling. Here is a comprehensive list of compression socks and leggings.

3rd Trimester Essentials

Your third trimester marks the final stretch in your pregnancy. It’s both an exciting and nerve-wracking time as you prepare for the new addition to your family. Here are some important pregnancy essentials for your third trimester:

Comfortable, supportive shoes

At this stage in the pregnancy, you’re likely to experience the most swelling. In addition to compression socks, invest in a good pair of comfy shoes. If you’re not sure which brands or shoe types will be the best, consult with your doctor or go to a store with experience in the best shoes for maternity. Of course, there are always online lists to scroll through on this topic as well.

Birthing ball

A birthing ball, also known as an exercise ball, helps prepare your body for birth. Sitting upright on a birthing ball can help strengthen your lower back and even alleviate pain. It also helps increase blood flow in your body and helps get your baby in the right position on your pelvis, which may help you experience less pain while you’re in labor.

Epsom salt

You will definitely need Epsom salt as the baby’s time to come out draws nearer. Taking hot baths with Epsom salts daily can relieve aches and sore muscles from carrying that nearly full-term baby around in your body! Using Epsom salt is also a great way to pamper yourself and unwind during the day.

A sturdy, comfortable bra

Your breasts change a lot during pregnancy as your body prepares itself for breastfeeding. Having the right bra is imperative for both expecting mothers and for after the baby’s born. Try hitting a department or a maternity store where they have experience in recommending bras for pregnant women and try a few on to see what works best for your needs.

After Birth Essentials

Many women receive help and recommendations for pregnancy care, but post-partum care is just as important. In addition to caring for a new life, it’s important for new mothers to take care of themselves, too. Here are some things new moms should consider for post-partum care:

• Taking the right vitamins to help your body recover and for breastfeeding (if you are breastfeeding).
• Drinking plenty of water, tea, and other fluids
• Try a post-partum care kit to take care of your body after birth
• A nursing bra if you’re breastfeeding

Those are our top recommendations for pregnancy essentials. We hope that you now know more about which products are safe for pregnancy and how to take the utmost care of you during this exciting time in your life. Also, remember to take a look at our line of pregnancy-safe skincare products here.