Pregnancy is a wonderful experience for both wife and husband. It can be an exciting experience for the family especially if you’re expecting your first baby, but it can also be stressful and tiring.
To help make your first journey into motherhood more memorable, make the transition easier by preparing for the big day with the following items.
Maternity Clothes
Wear comfortable clothes such as stretchable pants or maternity jeans, dresses, skirts, and v-neck shirts made of soft fabric. Don’t splurge on too many maternity clothes though. But keep at least a stylish pair for special occasions.
Belly Band
Late in your pregnancy, you might want to help take off the pressure on your pelvic and back areas. Belly bands help support the weight of the baby.
Comfortable Footwear
You can still wear shoes with low heels during the first few weeks, but as the baby gets bigger, you should opt for flat shoes with ankle support and cushion. Pick a color that will go every type of outfit. Some women might need shoes a size larger as well.
Maternity Underwear
Your breasts will swell during pregnancy so you will need a new set of bra. Pick materials made of soft fabric like cotton. You will also need maternity panties for that matter.
Stretch Marks Oil or Lotion
It’s natural for the skin to stretch to accommodate a growing baby. The best way to get rid of stretch marks is to start treating it while it’s still new even before the baby pops out.
Emergency Medication
Stock up your first aid kit with the following items: heartburn and indigestion remedies, morning sickness remedies, massage oil or cream for dry skin, antihistamines, and hot and cold packs for aching muscles.
Prenatal Supplements
Ask your doctor about vitamins that will benefit you and your baby. Some women find it difficult to keep down supplements because of the tendency to feel nausea. Other vitamins might also cause constipation.
Beauty Products
You probably can’t rely on your usual beauty regimen anymore, but that doesn’t mean you should neglect hygiene and keeping your good looks. Avoid using products that contain the following: tetracycline, hydroquinone, retinoids, phthalates, formaldehyde, ammonia, toluene, thioglycolic acid, and dihydroxyacetone.
Comfy Bed and Pillow
Some women suffer from painful joints. Switch to a memory foam mattress so you don’t wake up with back pains. Pregnancy pillows support your belly no matter what your sleeping position is.
Helpful Books
First-time parents will get a lot of advice from family and friends. It won’t hurt to read some more so that there will be fewer unpleasant surprises.
Hospital Bag
Prepare the things you will need for the big day in advance. You will need only one bag. The following items should be prepared: nursing bra, extra underwear, absorbent pads, slippers, socks and extra shoes, nightwear and extra clothes, toiletries and towel, basic newborn clothes or layette, diapers, nursing bottles and breast pump, camera, phone and charger, and snacks.