Here is the link!! Hope it helps to beat the heat!!
YQXCC 3 Pcs Cooling Towel (120x30 cm) Cool Cold Towel for Neck, Microfibre Ice Towel, Soft Breathable Chilly Towel for Yoga, Golf, Gym, Camping, Running, Workout & More Activitie: https://smile.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07T5D1ZNW/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_fabc_MQKN7D03M609B6FN9SC9?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I bought this one off amazon for pubic symphysis pain, lower back pain, and a feeling of "heaviness" at the end of the day. It does sit over your bladder, and I take it off to pee, but it has worked miracles for my pain.
This is a brilliant post - especially for those who may not have stayed in hospital before. I had a motorcycle accident in 2019 and was going to use what my husband had to go out and buy while I was stuck in a hospital miles away from home as the basis of this list but your suggestions will definitely go on the list too!
I'm not sure if you're in the right headspace for reading more 'serious' books, but (M)otherhood: On the choices of being a woman by Pragya Agarwal reflects on very similar experiences as yourself (but in india in the mid-1990s). It's an amazing book reflecting on race, feminism, being a mother, conception etc - I couldn't put it down. You can also get the audiobook .
Anyway, keeping fingers, toes, and legs crossed in solidarity that your little one digs in and is safe and happy in the womb for longer.
I was a 34H before pregnancy and from 6 weeks I started wearing these as I needed a new Molke size dye to tenderness and they were all out of stock at the time and I was desperate. They’re actually really good, I started off in a 2XL and am now up to a 3XL as I’ve grown to a 36J - bought a couple of sports bras in Bravissimo at that size but am wearing these for everyday.
Gratlin Women's Support Plus Size Racer Back Cotton Maternity Nursing Sports Bra Breastfeeding https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B08G474MNY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_NG3R2ETQYS0VRCGED372?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Gratlin Women's Support Plus Size Racer Back Cotton Maternity Nursing Sports Bra Breastfeeding https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B08G474MNY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_BSGG5TQVZDTBTR3BCTN8?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
If anyone wanted to take a punt, these are amazing. From about 6 weeks until now I was wearing the 2XL and just this week have picked up the 3XL and am kinda between the sizes. Surprisingly comfy and supportive for the well chested despite being wireless etc.
I think they might fall down. It looks like they need something to kinds hold them.in place of that makes sense. Lacti-Cups
I read Emily Oster's Expecting Better and thought it was a great place to start. She looks at the research evidence behind the advice for pregnancy, works out risks and allows you to make your own decision. I feel much more informed and comfortable making choices after reading it
She also has a follow-up on parenting from birth to pre-school called Crib Sheet whic I've read a bit of and thought was good so far
Likewise I used the boots ones and would definitely not recommend. Too small, not breast shaped and don't wash well.
Got these from Amazon and they're great
I got myself and my sister one of these each, it's kind of Chinese tat but mine's lasted 4 years with near daily use, it's the same as ever, no tears or worn out seams even. The only thing is sometimes that zip style can be tricky to open one handed from fully closed, but it's never been enough of an issue for me to change the bag and the wide top is really handy.
These are fantastic:
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Muslinz-Premium-Quality-Muslin-Squares/dp/B008BSX3YS?ref_=ast_sto_dp
They are HUGE and can take a battering, plus you get 12 in the pack so are really cost effective. They can cover your whole lap and half the sofa which is fab if you have a sicky baby. They're big enough to tie into an emergency hat, or a quick bag if you need another hand.
I bought 2 packs have done 2 kids now and the oldest still uses them for picnics. I've started buying a pack for everyone I know that's having a baby.
I have PTSD for reasons unrelated to childbirth and the perinatal team has been fantastic. I've been seen by specialist perinatal psychiatrists and having EMDR for my flashbacks, and, mentally, I'm in a much better place and feel able to deal with labour and having a newborn.
The only issue is that they may not be able to provide support until you hit the 12 week mark. Do you have private cover through your work? If so that makes accessing private care so much easier. It might be worthwhile looking into scheduling a few sessions. Also, I found this acceptance and commitment therapy workbook incredibly helpful for dealing with intrusive thoughts and anxiety.
Congratulations on your pregnancy!
Of course! Although I got mine like…3 weeks ago and have just noticed they put up the price! But this is the mini one I have. It also turns into a fan when the water runs out so you don’t have to worry too much about that happening while you sleep.
I have the infantino flip one and love it, use it when I walk the dogs! https://www.amazon.co.uk/Infantino-Advanced-Convertible-Carrier-Light/dp/B01FF518KK/ref=asc_df_B01FF518KK/?tag=googshopuk-21&linkCode=df0&hvadid=208127261928&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=6248313369167958886&hvpone=&hvptwo=&am...
They don't recommend trying until at least 36/37 weeks as there are theories that the stimulation can bring on labour (especially if using a pump). I think I started at 37 weeks on the dot, I used to express into a little plastic shot glass and then collect in a small 1ml syringe about once or twice a day.
It's not essential and I'm not sure whether it helped my milk come in any quicker or not but it was handy to have. It is tricky at first but it gets easier
Happy to answer questions always! :)
Try these for leggings:
Crazy Chick Ladies Maternity Over Bump Stretchy Adjustable Full Ankle Length Leggings https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B079RGSGG1/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_i_4XNN9CKHM1EGFMDWZENM?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I got my leggings from Sainsburys and they were comfy and pretty good value.
For maternity bras, I bought this 3-pack of crop-top style ones from Amazon. I deliberately went for ones that were in S/M/L sizes rather than normal bra sizes because I didn't know how big my boobs would get. In the end I haven't been breastfeeding but they're really comfy to wear at night to avoid any small leaks.
These are good too if you’re pumping
momcozy Breast Pump Bra Hands Free, Adjustable Breast Pump Grip and Nursing Bra, Combine Pumping and Nursing Bras into One, Comfortable and Adaptable, Strong Support Nursing Bra https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B09JBHD5TY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_CWZ3153XWSCX4H2RDAQ4?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
These are the soft ones!
Cotton Nursing Bra 3 Pack Seamless Wireless Night Sleep Nursing Maternity Bra for Breastfeeding with Removable Spill Prevention Pads https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B082FXNTXR/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_5MHXCNBV1B4VM6J912S2?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I think these are a great addition to my nursing bras but the easily moveable pads can be a pain. They are easy to use for nursing and pumping.
This bag opens wide (and stays open), has loads of pockets including zipped each side and one in the back which is great for your purse or something. It also has a zip on the back towards the bottom to reach stuff that’s in the bottom of the bag.
Plus side - it’s black. Downside… it has colourful elephants on it 😂 But maybe the brand do alternative ones I’m not sure.
I wanted a backpack in black and went for the Fisher Price backpack, which comes with a foldaway changing mat. It is really practical and affordable, but I confess I’m already on the hunt for a more stylish one like Storksak or Gigli
I've been looking on Amazon and that one is on my shortlist. I don't like to buy much from Amazon, but all the other places I've looked seem crazy expensive in comparison.
My brother and sister in law have this one and have had it 18 months now and it's still going (a lot of Amazon ones say they don't last long) and it's a similar design and price. There are lots on Amazon that are like that. There's also this style which has a zip on the bottom at the back to reach the lower down items.
We have this one from Amazon. There's so many pockets it's great. The big pockets big enough for all his stuff and then we use the front one for calpol mainly. We keep the middle one empty mostly but it's big enough for mum stuff. I've put pads/snack for me/keys in there (there's a phone pocket). It comes with a dummy holder but my son hated dummies so we haven't used it much. My only dislike is its a little big for the times we're not going to need a big bag but I tend to use a purse although I'm going to get a smaller one now he's older as I don't need as much stuff.
How many days post ovulation are you? Test again each day. I wouldn’t test again today or multiple times in one day- when I was early on, sometimes only my first wee of the day would be positive and the others weren’t , or only went positive after a few minutes, so it’s not worth it for the uncertainty it causes.
My first ones when I was only 8 to 11 DPO took a while to go positive and were faint lines, then as the days went on they went positive quicker and the line was darker.
I know you can’t reliably count a positive if it is outside the window of time, but I have never had any kind of positive line appear when I wasn’t pregnant, no matter how much time had passed.
I use these tests from Amazon- they are cheap and produced positive results at only 8DPO , when other brands were not picking it up yet Easy@Home 20 x Pregnancy Test... https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00DOJWJ3U?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
I was really overwhelmed with information and how many types and brands there are with cloth nappies. If you have the possibility, I would check out if you have a local nappy library where you can try out brands. Ours was closed due to COVID, unfortunately so I just bought some after again, exhaustive research.
I would say if you have a dryer at home, you can choose whichever nappies you like - pocket, AIOs, etc. Be aware that AIOs take a lot longer to dry. I have almost all pocket nappies with bamboo inserts, and the inserts take two dryer cycles to really dry. The brands i have are Le Petite Ourse (I think they just closed their UK site, but are still available in Europe) and peachi, which I got all secondhand. I started out with just 20 nappies, but it meant I was doing laundry every other day. I would say 30ish is probably the sweet spot to give yourself 2 days in between having to do a load.
My two pieces of advice are: 1) I used these nappy liners, definitely better than the disposable ones I got that would just bunch up and not actually catch any poo.
2) installed this bidet attachment to our toilet to get off most of the poo off so you're not just putting it in your washing machine.
There is a "Cloth Nappies UK" Facebook group I find helpful and a subreddit as well.
Good luck and congrats!!
We have one called “As You Grow”. It’s got some USA holidays in which we tore out (it’s spiral bound so easy to do) but I really like it. There are sections to before and during pregnancy, the birth, then monthly updates and special events. After 1y, I think there are annual updates until the age of 5. There are photo spaces, pockets. I quite like it- the only thing is remembering to write in it!
As You Grow: A Modern Memory Book for Baby https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/194451547X/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_Y1CGZHPZE2X73N4086WZ
Wonder Weeks covers developmental leaps. Which are essentially, predictable fussy phases followed by sudden jumps forward in skills. Most mums I know either read the book or use the app. The power of this one is knowing that baby is going to be fussy or not quite themselves for a little while. That way you can do whatever needs to be done rather than pulling your hair out trying to solve an unsolvable crotchety baby y.
I can recommend these cheapy ones from amazon. Easy@Home 20 x Pregnancy Test Strips for Early Detection 10 MIU/ml, Fertility Test Kit, 20 HCG Tests https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00DOJWJ3U/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_N7831Q4K7JBFD0AEDFD8?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1 Positive result 8DPO
I have over the bump undies from Amazon and they are amazing! I wear them with maternity leggings and together they have enough support for me.
SUNNYBUY Women's Maternity High Waist Underwear Pregnancy Seamless Soft Hipster Panties Over Bump https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B08L3LRGCV/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_i_2G2S64S32E4AB4NJSFEG?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I love these ones from Amazon, very comfy under bump intimate portal
I got some recently from Amazon, they're sooo comfortable!
Yes, I've had a look around. Belly bandit is one that's been recommended by a friend. They can be pricey so I'm going to get something similar on Amazon to try out.
I'm going to go for a support band first, I don't think I need as much support as one of the belts provide...yet So will see how it goes.
I'm going to try this one
Medela Supportive Belly Band
From the reviews it sounds quite good, but placement is also really important. A fair few people said it rides up, but lots have said as long as it's placed correctly it stays put.
X
Aptamil 1 First Baby Milk Formula Starter Pack Ready to Use Liquid, from Birth, 6x70 ml https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01N8P9ADQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_RJ3PKNNK377Y22P9AXZF
You’ll waste so much formula if you take bigger bottles plus these ones Allow you to skip sterilising which is impossibly difficult in hospital
Not muuuch cheaper, but Ubbi does one for £20 which I really like. Like the Oxo, it’s weighted, so you will only get one wipe at a time and won’t tip over the container.
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Ubbi-Dispenser-Holder-Weighted-Non-Slip/dp/B00NX5J5O6
I ordered mine of Amazon, they have been fab. But I'm plussize so didn't have many options, I think M&S do really good ones too.
These are the one I ordered: SUNNYBUY Women's Maternity High Waist Underwear Pregnancy Seamless Soft Hipster Panties Over Bump https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07WVJPMYH/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_i_4D00XQWW3C3XQNYQ2GJ7?psc=1
Vitafusion Prenatal DHA and folic acid rubber vitamin https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B003IP8BC8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_9TCCYB04PHH8JBP8D5WY?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Pregnacare is the worst. I tried various but eventually the above worked well.
Failing that just get a plain folic acid and a pain vit d.
I struggled to find some of these too (full disclosure I was naked under my hospital gown in labour but I stayed in for a few days after and it was very helpful to have nighties for easy access). In the end I got this off Amazon
All spot on advice. I would recommend this litter picker https://www.amazon.co.uk/Helping-Hand-Classic-Folding-Reacher/dp/B000RE441U/ref=asc_df_B000RE441U/?tag=googshopuk-21&linkCode=df0&hvadid=294709443317&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=11561506174405491484&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt... My grandma had it after a hip replacement, and it has served me after 2 c sections, and I still use it all the time when baby is napping in the carrier and I need to reach things.
You could use a nursing cover to begin with (like this. I found it useful when I was still figuring out latching her on (there's definitely a knack to it and when they're really little you often need two hands) and didn't want to wave my boobs about in public (no judgement on anyone for this, I just don't like my boobs much and am v self conscious about them). That said you'll find they swiftly learn to avert their gaze. My brother found it the most awkward, but got over it.
I wish people understood how difficult it can seem to big breasted mums to breastfeed their newborn. Everyone just assumes that bigger boob = more milk / better at feeding. I personally found it so awkward initially to bf my baby because the seemed so tiny compared to my giant boobs and trying to maneuver the boob while holding her was very difficult to say the least. (So don't worry if you feel very clumsy doing it at first!) Also it doesn't really help when the you ask the midwife for help and she just shoes your boob into the baby's mouth...like yeah lady I know YOU can do it but I'd like you to show ME how to do it... Sigh 😩 anyway! Sorry for the depressing intro! Here are the things I wish I knew and that helped:
✨Side-lying feeding✨ - this one was an absolute life saver since you don't need to worry about holding the baby so you can just position them close to you and use one hand to squish the boob so they can latch on more easily. My little one is almost 6 months and I'm typing this while doing a side lying feed. Still one of my favourite bf positions when I'm at home.
✨Boppy nursing cushion✨ - essentially creates a shelf that you can lie the baby on and have your hands free to maneuver your boob into their mouth. During my first 2-3 weeks postpartum I alternated between this and the side lying feed.
Honorable mention goes to this maternity bra. Have about 3 of them and they're so comfy and yet good at containing the ol' milk bags 😄
Finally I just want to say that You've got this! Even though you might feel really clumsy at first I promise you it gets a lot easier especially once your baby gets a bit bigger😊
It’s the worst. First of all I was really afraid of lying on my front or tilted toward my front for the first half of my pregnancy and I shouldn’t have been. I know you said it’s sore, but if it stops being sore I don’t think you need to worry about it until midway through really!
That aside because one way or another you will absolutely need to sleep on your side at some point and it sucks - I had a knee pillow like this. I thought it was dumb to begin with but I ended up using it pretty much every day. I also got loads of mileage out of this pregnancy v pillow. You used to be able to buy it on Amazon pretty cheap but looks like no more? Something similar will do the trick anyway. I used that sucker everywhere by the end and it got prioritised for bed space over my partner. Loved it. I still use it now as a back rest for night feeds.
Oh this makes me sad OP!
I am 26 weeks pregnant and have had 3 midwife appointments with 2 different midwives. So not a lot of contact.
BUT each time both midwives have made me feel cared for and that there was plenty of time to ask questions etc. They've asked and told me stuff in a pretty open ended way, and I've felt supported without anything really taking much time.
I don't really know what to suggest, other than to ignore any feeling pressured and ask all your questions. Maybe also see if you can take someone with you to help?
In terms of books, I've read this one. It gives a lot of clear info about what stuff is and your options, rooted in data without it being too technical. https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/0241315808/ref=cm_sw_r_em_apa_glt_i_WXVCZRCS0DVR24JC5JXB
The NHS website also has a lot of good info: https://www.nhs.uk/pregnancy/
Not preggo myself, but I have this one
Vidence Bath Pillow, VIDEN Bath Pillows for Head and Neck With Suction Cups 6 Non-Slip Suction Cups Bath Home Spa for Head Neck Shoulders Rest Bathtub Pillows Cushion https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B08JYY1HN5/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_P12XP96T8MF2V37J5YGN
I had a home birth this time and loved it. The home birth team are so passionate about what they do it makes them the absolute best midwives. And it meant I could just go to bed when all was said and done
I would absolutely recommend it, but I would pair it with reading the Better Birth book.
I think my experience would have been a lot less good without that. My friend has a bit of a fear of hospitals so elected for a home birth, she ended up labouring at home and having to be transferred for a C-section, but because of everything she learnt from the above book it was still a really positive experience for her.
Mine was actually a hand me down so not sure what it is, but this is a similar style:
I ordered these from Amazon: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07RZZ5CNR/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_fabc_X0Q4E65DMM3V35362S8X
Once they've got colostrum in them, I've been told to freeze them.
I've also got a sterilisers on the way so I can harvest into a cup/pot/tupperware thing or something
I've not tried the bbhugme pillow, so unsure how good it is, however I have the Kolbray U Shape pillow and think it's brilliant - offers both front and back support.
Get one of these https://www.amazon.co.uk/Helping-Hand-Classic-Pro-Reaching/dp/B01JZ2WP8I/ref=mp_s_a_1_5?crid=23SKAOGHH5TM4&keywords=grabber&qid=1637697032&qsid=261-0942867-3536211&sprefix=grabber%2Caps%2C97&sr=8-5&sres=B08B1QNBH1%2CB07VVFW... otherwise anything on the floor will be dead to you after the surgery.
Look around your house. Do any little jobs that you've been putting off (e.g. take old clothes to the charity shop, reorganise the pantry) and clean anything that will bother you to look at for the next couple of months while you can't do much. I deep cleaned the house, tidied the garden and weeded the path in the week before my c section. I knew it would bother me to look at it otherwise.
Get a bunch of extra pillows for your bed and cushions for your sofa so you can be we'll propped up and not have to use your core muscles at all. Go around and arrange anything you might want or need to be at a height you can reach without bending. Stock up on painkillers. Get some little baskets, fill them with snacks and put them next to your bed and sofa. Make sure you have enough water bottles that you can stash one everywhere.
Go and do something nice that is adults only. Go to the cinema or to a fancy restaurant. Relish your freedom.
We only have a walk in shower. We used a baby bath when she was tiny, now we use a big plastic bucket thing (like this), and sometimes I just shower with her (she's 11 months now).
I have this type of bras. I tried all kinds with my first, during and after pregnancy and none were good!! These are very nice, they have the clasp at the back but they fit my size perfectly. Most of the others weren't good enough to fit everything in and I usually wear XL or the other issue was that the boob just comes out from the top...
Hey! Looks like we are both 24 weeks pregnant! I bought these from amazon and they are SO comfy!! The double up as nursing bra's as well for after your little one is here :)
In the early days a little bouncer that vibrates like this . I had a LO who would only sleep on me in the day, so I used this when I needed to put her somewhere safe, while I could shower or just have a rest! I could write a long list, but this is the most important thing ever! Vibrate, because when LO needed to poop this helped too!
I also, wish I had bought SO much second hand on Facebook marketplace. We got our pram/pushchair combo on there, and had a few hand me downs too, but the price for new toys and clothes is extortionate.
This is the most incredible book:
(Sorry for the clunky link).
I could not recommend it more highly.
I had a great first birth then an unplanned C-section with my second which left me feeling quite apprehensive. A friend who was terrified of birth did the full course and has leant me the book and it's awesome.
It's not about airy fairy mumbo jumbo, it's about empowerment through knowledge.
Definitely tidy and clean and do any of those little jobs that you've been looking at for ages and not gotten round to because you will be sitting round not being able to do them and it will bother you.
Set things up so you can change baby without bending over. Arrange your clothes so you can get them without bending over (no socks in the bottom drawer). Put snacks on the kitchen counter or a top cupboard. Put a big stack of pillows in your bed so you can sleep sitting up. Put snacks next to your bed. Put lots of cushions on the sofa. Cut your toenails. Shave your legs.
Buy one of these so you can pick stuff up without bending over https://www.amazon.co.uk/Helping-Hand-Classic-Folding-Reacher/dp/B000RE441U/ref=asc_df_B000RE441U/?tag=googshopuk-21&linkCode=df0&hvadid=294709443317&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=17442181803441996515&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt...
Stock up on paracetamol and ibuprofen. Put them next to your bed and next to the sofa. Also get enough water bottles that you can have one near your bed, the sofa, the kitchen, wherever you normally sit.
Enjoy some alone time. Laze around and do whatever you want. Stay in bed in the morning. Maybe go to the cinema or watch a really long film at home. Enjoy being just you for the last time in a while.
Pretty similar others. Paracetamol and ibuprofen, with dihydrocodeine as a top up, which I mainly took at night. I made a little chart with times that I could take pain relief on, and made sure I ticked them off so I didn't forget. My husband also reminded me. The trick is to not let it wear off at any point. You don't want to wait until you need it, just take it, at least for the first week.
My first c section was an emergency one, mid labour due to an undiagnosed breech baby. My second was scheduled due to a breech baby. The emergency c section was definitely worse than the scheduled one. I was in a lot more pain afterwards, stayed in the hospital for a few days, was begging for extra pain relief (got oramorph) and wasn't offered any extra pain relief to take home. For the scheduled c section, it wasn't so bad, had the surgery in the morning and was walking around in the afternoon. Was only in 24 hours and got given dihydrocodeine to take home. Getting in and out of bed is the worst, mainly going from laying down to sitting up. I slept propped up on 5 pillows for the first week or so. Get people to do everything for you as much as possible. If the pain relief is working then you shouldn't be in pain, but you still shouldn't do anything if possible so your body can heal. Also, make sure you eat well and drink a lot of water.
My top c section recommendations are really big pants that are much higher than your incision site will be, and one of these https://www.amazon.co.uk/Helping-Hand-Classic-Folding-Reacher/dp/B000RE441U/ref=asc_df_B000RE441U/?tag=googshopuk-21&linkCode=df0&hvadid=294709443317&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=17397360141578229658&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt... so you can pick things up without having to bend over.
https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/0857835459/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
I found most of the books I came across to be "dumbed" down and insulting to fathers except for this one. How To Be A Dad by Dr Oscar Duke.
This one! After struggling to find one that wasn't just "haha women! babies! mental! am i right lads?! PUBS. FOOTBALL!!" this was a relief and my husband has really enjoyed it:
How to Be a Dad by Oscar Duke!
https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/0857835459/ref=ppx\_yo\_dt\_b\_search\_asin\_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Just got this one and so far I love it! Easy af to apply Dr.G Green Mild Up Sun SPF50+/PA++++ 50ml https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07H2W8ZYF/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_ARV0N6F83M733ZDGT2E7?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Pregnacare made my nausea worse as well. I switched to Seven Seas Pregnancy multivitamin and found it much easier to take!
Pregnacare is awful. These are very good: Vitafusion Prenatal DHA and folic acid rubber vitamin https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B003IP8BC8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_KGP7SM7YHBRV0T05G3WF?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Or just get folic acid and vitamin d individual tablets if you really struggle with the nausea from multivitamin options
Sounds like a c section is for you, you can pretty much plan exactly how it will go. You'll have a pre-op appointment a few days before where they will explain the whole process to you. I was disappointed to have to have the section, but it was nice to be able to plan childcare for my first, deep clean the house the day before, and know I had everything packed and ready.
C section recommendations - get one of these so you can pick things up off the floor without bending https://www.amazon.co.uk/Helping-Hand-Classic-Reacher-32-Inch/dp/B079K2R5QJ/ref=asc_df_B079K2R5QJ/?tag=googshopuk-21&linkCode=df0&hvadid=309889597107&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=232919715742206033&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&... Put everything at waist height if possible (get a changing table if you don't have one, or set up a change pad on top of a dresser or table) Prep meals in the freezer or get lots of easy food in Get some big pants that go way higher than the incision site will be
A big water bottle. When I was in hospital there wasn't anywhere to get fresh water on the ward so I kept having to ask the midwives to get it filled up for me from the kitchen
A battery powered light of some kind. There wasn't a lamp or bedside lightswitch, only the big room lights with no option to dim them. I got have one of these and it's also a great for night time feed when baby is here 🙂
Vitafusion Prenatal DHA and folic acid rubber vitamin https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B003IP8BC8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_Q9YSNFWB0SMM5YPC13VD?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
That or if the nausea is bad just take folic acid and vitamin d which are the key ones
HBselect 3 Pack Women’s Nursing Bra Wireless Seamless Maternity Bra Breastfeeding Bras Bralette with Removable Bra Pads Extenders https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07RNPBQH5/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_CHY7R1D6BQ6EDZYYEVSB
I found these super comfy!
We used this app https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.amikulich.babysleep (hope that link works, it's just a free one with good selection of sounds) and car, waterfall and shushing worked magically on our first baby to stop her crying and send her to sleep. You have to play it louder than the crying to begin with so they can hear it, then you can turn it down. I used to tuck my phone into the side of the car seat with it playing, then I could bring her into the house without her waking up too. 100% recommend, and if it doesn't work on this second baby I will be devastated.
This is what i got, it's meant to help support the bump and back. i suffer from back pain, this does help but as i said baby doesn't like it. Doesn't like any pressure on it. silly sod pushes the doppler and ultrasound thingy away. does the same if i bend over to much, buts its bum right under my boobs and pushes o its uncomfortable lol.
They’re pretty common.
I have the Hatch Hatch Baby Rest Sound Machine, Night Light and Time-to-Rise (UK-Only Compatible) https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B08GL2X5G7/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_M6JSG3FCJC06N6GYHXW3?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
And the portable Dreamegg Dreamegg White Noise Machine, D11 Portable Sound Machine with Night Light for Baby Kids Adults, 11 Soothing Sounds Therapy for Sleeping Nursery Travel, USB Rechargeable Continuous or Timer Child Lock https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B08DJ34WT8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_BMVB9JPK9T800CNEKKRT?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I swore by this for my last pregnancy (single baby, but she was large (3.75kg) and I gained 20kg), and will definitely be using it this time too. It totally fixed my lower back pain, and I didn't get any stretchmarks (which may or may not have been anything to do with the brace, but could be a nice side benefit!).
I have been having the same struggles with the weight of the belly at the end of the day,, lower back pain, and pelvic pain, with some pubic symphysis pain as well. I caved and bought one a few nights ago and wore it yesterday for the first time. Holy heck. I thought I could run a marathon for the first time in about 2 months.
I'm almost 34 weeks, I wish I bought one a few weeks ago!
NeoTech Care Pregnancy Support Maternity Belt, Waist/Back/Abdomen Band, Belly Brace https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01GO2Q8ZS/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_fabc_WHBFRD0FB85AK2R0PD58?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I use this one when going on walks which provides good support from pelvic pain/pressure https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B072LXVX31/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_359SG1TTC0TBZ5J7Y5XA?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Not really a swimsuit bra but I plan on wearing one of these. The material is very thin and I could say almost swimsuit like? They're also crazy comfortable and not bad in the support department as long as you don't plan on doing jumping jacks in it 😬 - I was a 34F/G before pregnancy and this has been my go to bra and planning on using it during labour and in the pool.
Also... I just used an amazon one (bought by one of my mates a few years ago and posted to me!) It's great, two clear lines and as cheap as chips for a pack of 50. https://www.amazon.co.uk/sensitive-Sensitivity-pregnancy-individually-CE-approved/dp/B01G2ICDBC/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?dchild=1&keywords=pregnancy+test+strip&qid=1621661617&sprefix=pregnancy+test&sr=8-3
Mestron Pram Buggy Organiser Bag & Pram Organiser Bag Stroller Organizer with Detachable Pocket, Mobile Phone Pocket, 2 Insulated Cup Pockets & Shoulder Strap Pushchair Organiser https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B08CVQWHNW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_T64Y55ZPJ9C7Z584FZKF?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
This is the one I got
I bought these a couple of weeks ago and love them! I'm a small, so not sure how they are for larger sizes, but for me they are so comfortable and affordable
https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B075D64154?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
We had something like this second hand with my daughter which worked great as I could bounce it with my foot link to baby bouncer
I’m on my second and I’d really like to get this this time as it goes flat so you can rock away and then flatten it out for a proper sleep. more expensive baby bouncer link
If anyone wants to cover the cost of postage, I have washed but unused Carter’s (one way zip though) linked below I can send anyone. My 10lb kiddo did not need newborn size 🙂
Simple Joys by Carter's Unisex Baby 2-Pack Fleece Footed Sleep and Play, Pack of 2 https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0797F2W7N/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_fabc_fcI1FbG78TEJE?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
The GentleBirth app makes your hypnobirthing and meditation practice so easy. It's tailored to your due date In early in pregnancy your 'practice' days are quite light and as you get closer to your due date you'll see more practice recommendations come up for labor itself such as breathing techniques. It also tracks your practice so you can see how much time you're doing each month. You can try it free for a week (there's a book and workbook too that you can keep). There's also playlists for pregnancy anxiety, playlists for your partner, and for different unexpected scenarios that can come up such as being induced, having an epidural and sessions for postpartum recovery. Finding a voice you like it so important so take your time.
This is the book you get free in the app.
https://www.amazon.com/GentleBirth-Your-Positive-Birth-Begins/dp/1979274754/
If you have any questions about the daily practice or GentleBirth feel free to message me.
Try out the GentleBirth hypnobirthing app - there's a 7 day free trial and you can download and keep the GentleBirth Book and workbook. It's tailored to your due date so you have different hypnobirthing sessions every day depending on where you are in your pregnancy. There's also some lovely content for the first trimester which can be stressful especially now. Each day you'll practice hypnobirthing, mindfulness and as you get further along you'll see the different breathing techniques and pushing imagery come up. Check out the playlists for labor, insomnia, positive induction, birth with an epidural etc....there's no other hypnobirthing app like it.
This is the book that comes with the app.
https://www.amazon.com/GentleBirth-Your-Positive-Birth-Begins/dp/1979274754/
If you have any questions you can reach out to me anytime - supporting our GentleBirth parents is part of what comes with the app and our approach.