My Top 9 Maternity Essentials
I have been getting some questions about favorite maternity items, such as which leggings to buy, what vitamins to take etc.. So I thought I would round up some of my favorite pregnancy essentials.
I really didn’t buy much maternity wear, except I found that having maternity leggings, black tights, workout leggings, and one pair of jeans was essential. Other than that I ended up sizing up for a couple of new dresses and sweaters. Also, I found dresses easier to wear and they didn’t require a lot of outfit coordination or fuss. Here are 9 of my maternity essentials I highly recommend and that I have used throughout this pregnancy.
Spanx Maternity Tights- These tights worked for me throughout my pregnancy. And while tights can sometimes be uncomfortable and tight, these fit so well over the belly and I never felt confined in these. They are a must if you need to wear tights with any of your dresses or skirts.
Heating Pad-I didn’t use this exact heating pad, but the old one I had looked very similar. I liked to prop my legs on a pillow in bed and use a heating pad on my legs and sometimes low back. It was a relaxing way to unwind and it helped with the leg cramps I was having. It felt like just a small indulgence at the end of the day.
Ritual Vitamins- I have to admit I didn’t love these at first and I even didn’t take them for many weeks. But, once I found out I was slightly anemic I got back on them and my body got used to them. They have a nice lemon flavor which is great when you ingest them. But what I didn’t like is that I would burp more often and it tasted like seaweed (sorry I know too much information!). But these vitamins are vegan and I really just like how they contain only the 12 essential clean nutrients needed during pregnancy. I am glad I gave them a second chance.
Magnesium-I was advised to take this from my doctor for leg cramps and restless legs. I was having restless legs pretty often at night during the second and third trimester and the magnesium and heating pad seemed to provide some relief. I also found out I was slightly anemic, which may have contributed to the leg cramps as well. I took supplemental iron to help with the anemia and leg cramps as well.
Bio-Oil- I used Bio-Oil throughout my pregnancy on my belly to help prevent stretch marks. It also just felt soothing and relaxing to use this before bedtime. I didn’t end up using anything else, except I did moisturize with Cetaphil cream.
DL1961 “Emma” Jeans- (bottom right photo)I ended up only getting one pair of jeans during pregnancy. Looking back I probably could have gotten another pair, but once I discovered leggings I found it more uncomfortable to wear jeans. Also, with these under the belly jeans I had to size down to a 26 and even then they were a bit loose until around the 3rd trimester. If you wear jeans a lot I would definitely recommend getting 1-2 pairs of high quality designer jeans and the DL1961 Emma jean has gotten great reviews.
H&M Conscious Line Maternity Leggings - (top middle photo) Ok these were probably my favorite thing ever during pregnancy. These leggings are good quality, inexpensive, and super cozy over the belly. I ended up buying two pairs of black leggings and one pair of the grey. I went with a medium and they were slightly big, but I didn’t mind.
Zella Mamasana Live in Maternity Workout Leggings -I bought these back in July during the half yearly Nordstrom sale and I am glad I did. They ended up being my “go to” workout leggings, especially during the second trimester. They are high quality, not too clingy, and and wash well too. I went with a size medium.
SmartWater- My doctor advised me to drink a lot of Smart water each day because it has added electrolytes and contains calcium, magnesium, and potassium. The taste is pure, clean, and really fresh. Side note-I am having a serious obsession with eating ice during pregnancy and I have been addicted to chewing ice in my smart water. I am probably ruining my teeth! The ice issue is probably linked to my anemia and it’s ironic because prior to pregnancy I hated ice in any of my drinks!
