As I’m getting close to entering my third trimester, I thought it would be fun to reflect back on my pregnancy so far and share with you what I think my essentials were for each trimester to help other expectant moms along the way. For me, first trimester was all about battling that nausea and fatigue that accompanies all of the hormone level changes during this time. I didn’t do much working out or exercise because I felt so sick and tired all of the time, but these items helped me power through to the easier second trimester.
Crackers
During my first trimester, I was constantly craving salty foods. Whether that be because my body was lacking sodium or because it helped sooth my upset stomach, Cheez-it’s seemed to be the craving of choice. Not the healthiest I will admit but it did the trick and helped me munch on something when I was feeling sick. Other moms have mentioned saltine crackers or goldfish helped them get through. Hey, whatever makes you feel better, right?
Humidifier
I’m prone to stuffy noses or congestion anyway but it seems to be worse during pregnancy. That’s because the higher levels of estrogen in your body can cause the lining of your nasal passages to swell and create more mucus. Which is lovely. My husband would put on a the humidifier every night while we slept and it made a huge difference!
Pregnancy Book
What to Expect When You’re Expecting is a classic for a reason. It’s one of the first books I purchased when I found out that I was pregnant and I’ve been reading along week by week as my pregnancy progresses. It’s a nice resource book to read when you have random questions in between doctor appointments.
Vapor Rub
This stuff saved me when I came down with a pretty nasty sinus infection during my first trimester. Of course, you have to be careful about which medications you can take during pregnancy and many of the medications I would normally take were off limits. Vick’s Vapo Rub was one of the few things my doctor said was safe and it helped me through so many sleepless nights when I was up coughing or felt like I couldn’t breathe. Rub it on your chest, feet and on the tip of your nose to breathe better throughout the night.
Water Bottle/Tumbler
During pregnancy, you need to drink as much water as possible and it can be hard to keep track of what you’re actually drinking. Having a tumbler or HydroFlask filled at all times helps encourage water intake, keep track of how much water you’re consuming, and is easy to take with you on the go or to work. I love HydroFlasks because they keep your water cold for hours which is nice when working 12 hour shifts like I do.
Prenatal Vitamins
This one shouldn’t be a surprise as every doctor will encourage newly pregnant women to be sure to take prenatal vitamins. I like this combo because it also comes with an additional DHA supplement which is a key omega-3 fat that helps to build and preserve brain health and function for babies. I also found that taking my prenatal vitamins at night helped keep the nausea at bay.
Pregnancy App
During the first trimester, you baby is growing at a rapid rate and developing something new everyday. Following along with a daily app is so exciting in the first few months because there are so many changes and discoveries. I love the Ovia pregnancy app because it gives you daily updates with new growths and develops for baby, supplies weekly informational videos about what’s going on with mom and baby, publishes interesting articles, and has a great community.
Preggie Pop Drops
My mom introduced me to these pop drops and they’re incredible. They’re great for you to pop into your mouth whenever you’re feeling sick. The sour flavors were my favorite and they helped get me through my sickest times of morning sickness. Seriously check these out if you’re struggling with nausea.
Those are my first trimester must-haves! I’m curious to hear about what your first trimester essentials are! Leave a comment below! Also stay tuned for my second trimester must-haves in the future!
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