Pregnancy can be one of life’s most challenging experiences. Growing a human is no small feat, and you may be trying to find ways to get through the uncomfortable moments and figure out your growing body.
Add to that a lot of different feelings and emotions, as well as “pregnancy brain,” which makes it hard to remember things at times! Because your body is going through an incredible number of changes, we thought it would be helpful to put together a list of six pregnancy hacks to help make you more comfortable. There’s so much that can be done to help make pregnancy more comfortable — from hair ties, tank tops, and essential oils to maternity pants, belly bands, and bra extenders.
Tip #1: Snacks are your friend.
If the idea of a huge meal makes you queasy, that’s OK. Sometimes eating big meals can cause bloating, gas, and indigestion. Consider changing your eating schedule so that you have several small meals and snacks throughout the day, including some type of protein with each one. Doing this can help fight hormonal mood swings, low blood sugar, and nausea that often comes with pregnancy.
Whatever you do, don’t go hungry. Make yourself eat, especially if you are not feeling like yourself. Some good snacks and meal ideas to consider are apples and peanut butter, yogurt with fruit, trail mix, tuna sandwiches, salmon with rice, smoothies, and protein bars.
Tip #2: Nip morning sickness in the bud.
Morning sickness can be debilitating (and it is not always just in the morning, either.) One of the most popular pregnancy hacks is keeping a stash of crackers next to your bed so you can have a few crackers right when you wake up. If salty crackers don’t do it for you, try graham crackers or even ginger snaps! An empty stomach in the morning can amplify morning sickness even more.
If you find your nausea lasts throughout the day, try motion sickness wrist bracelets. These use acupressure at certain points to help alleviate nausea. Ginger tea or cookies may help as ginger can be a natural remedy for nausea. Lightening up your meals may also help — less greasy food, lighter meals.
These tips will probably not take all your morning sickness away, but they could offer a bit of relief.
Tip #3: Use a pregnancy pillow.
Putting a bunch of pillows in between your legs and behind your back simply won’t do the same thing that a nice pregnancy pillow will. These are large ‘C’ shaped pillows that help make it easier to roll from side to side as your tummy gets bigger. They also support your back and help with some of the balance needed for sleeping on your side. If you are not normally a side sleeper, a pregnancy pillow may just convert you to one after your pregnancy too!
You need plenty of sleep while pregnant, and a pregnancy pillow can help with this — especially in the last trimester.
Tip #4: Get comfortable clothing.
Maternity clothing is very fashionable these days, and finding things that are comfortable and give you plenty of room to move is key to staying comfortable. There are lots of affordable items to buy online or even at used retail shops that will not only help you feel cozy but also cute!
Many women use the most simple of pregnancy hacks, and just go up a size or two in today’s styles of leggings and oversize tops. Especially in your first and second trimester, this hack will let you avoid switching out to full-on maternity clothes. There is no right or wrong — focus on what makes you comfortable!
Tip #5: Keep your belly moisturized.
There are a variety of different lotions on the market that are good for moisturizing your pregnant tummy. Doing this every day right from the very beginning of your pregnancy can help minimize stretch marks. Not to mention, it will make your skin softer, smoother, and more comfortable to live in as it begins to stretch and change as your baby grows.
Tip #6: Ask for help.
It is important to ask for help when you need it. Pregnancy can be difficult, and you don’t have to go at it alone. Reach out to people that you love and trust around you if you need to talk or want advice. Maybe you need help running errands or just need a couple of hours to yourself to take a good nap.
Expressing your feelings and needs is healthy and important to do, especially as you plan to place your baby for adoption. There are many different emotions that come with that, and it is very crucial to not hold those things in. Processing your emotions takes time and support from others.
Our experienced team at Lifetime Adoption can help walk you through your pregnancy, and set up counseling for you if you wish. As you move forward with open adoption, we will work with you to find the right family for your baby.
Your coordinator can help you with your pregnancy needs, including maternity clothes, pillows, and more. Just let her know how she can best help you make your pregnancy as comfortable as it can be for you.
We work with birth mothers from all walks of life, and we understand that you want what is best for both you and your baby. Remember, we are here for you anytime, 24 hours a day.
To speak with a caring adoption coordinator, contact us today! Call or text Lifetime at 1-800-923-6784.
As Vice President of Lifetime Adoption, Heather Featherston holds an MBA and is passionate about working with those facing adoption, pregnancy, and parenting issues. Heather has conducted training for birth parent advocates, spoken to professional groups, and has appeared on television and radio to discuss the multiple aspects of adoption. She has provided one-on-one support to women and hopeful adoptive parents working through adoption decisions.
Since 2002, she has been helping pregnant women and others in crisis to learn more about adoption. Heather also trains and speaks nationwide to pregnancy clinics to effectively meet the needs of women who want to explore adoption for their child. Today, she continues to address the concerns women have about adoption and supports the needs of women who choose adoption for their child.
As a published author of the book Called to Adoption, Featherston loves to see God’s hand at work every day as she helps children and families come together through adoption.
0 Comments