I’m really sorry for your loss. That sounds like tough and complicated news to take in. I hope you find the space you need to process and grieve, and I also hope the rest of your pregnancy is healthy and smooth.
I remember reading an essay called “Piece of Cake” by Rachel Zucker in this book: https://www.amazon.com/About-What-Was-Lost-Miscarriage/dp/0452287995. It’s written by a woman who was pregnant with twins and lost one of them. I’m suggesting this in case it helps with processing emotions—for me reading about other women’s experiences has helped process losses.
Such good ideas!
I numbered my weeks on the month views in my 2021 planner today and order my pregnancy journal. I've done one for both of my previous pregnancies and am looking forward to doing another one. I also keep a 5 year journal -- just started the 4th year of it, so it feels like I've been doing it forever now. I started it when my living child was 5 months old but wish I had started it the year before so that I could have captured all of the pregnancy-related stuff.
So, I'm convinced that the solution to my bra issue does not exist.
Pre-pregnancy I was a 36GG and now they're just some size larger (haven't even bothered to measure yet). My underwire bras still fit and even though the cups runneth over, they look ok for when I'm out of the house.
My real problem is at home/comfy bras. I've completely outgrown the no underwire nursing bras I bought and my other ones (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07TH8JF1V/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1) just give me massive, sweaty, smooshed uniboob.
Is there something out there that is comfortable around the house that won't just mash my boobs together?
According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, a moderate amount of caffeine (think one cup of coffee or a soda a day) is safe to drink during pregnancy. However, the safety of consuming larger quantities, which ACOG describes as over 200mg in a day, is unknown, and some studies have linked caffeine to miscarriage and low birth weight, so it's important to keep your caffeine intake under control.
I switched to half caffeine coffee pods for my Nespresso machine which is around 80mgs a cup.
Nespresso Capsules VertuoLine, Half Caffeinato, Mild Roast Coffee, 30 Count Coffee Pods, Brews 7.8oz https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0768QPPZC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glc_fabc_z51aGbFT9SE3D?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I took chewable calcium supplements (the chocolate flavored ones taste like Tootsie Rolls) when I was pregnant with my twins, but the calcium requirements are higher for a multiples pregnancy. I didn't take any extra calcium (besides the 50mg in my prenatals) during my first/singleton pregnancy, but I think I covered the requirements with my daily dairy intake.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00DYSU8SE/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_fabc_gyY9FbM6E29EY
It honestly depends on the baby! My son wore newborn for 2-3 months! He could actually fit into an newborn pair of pants until 5 months! I would buy a cheap pack of onesies on Amazon, like these and maybe a 3 pack of sleepers (we love cloud island from target). You could always wait to wash them and return them!
Hit: maternity undies from Kindred Bravely https://www.kindredbravely.com/products/under-the-bump-bikini-underwear-assorted-5-pack?variant=20164046225504
Hit: this big billowy cotton dress from Amazon: YESNO Women Casual Loose Bohemian Short Sleeve Floral Dress Long Maxi Summer Beach Swing Dress with Pockets EJF https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07VPHMT4L/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_8WQCWANGZEJRYW7Y4WJJ?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1 read the reviews and size up. SO light and airy and 100% cotton is great for hot days!!!
Hit: linen blend pants from Old Navy (non maternity) worn under the bump
Miss: Uniqlo maternity jeans like why? I hate jeans in general so idk why I thought I would like them. Too big on top and they squeeze my calves. Jeans can go to hell give me all the flowy clothing!
Oh no, did you not use a diaper sprayer shield? You put it on top of your toilet and it holds the diaper and contains the spray, it's a game changer! I can't imagine how much of a headache trying to do it without one would be, I totally understand why you hated it.
Another trick is to take the liners out of the diaper before you spray it. That way the diaper isn't 600 lbs when you're done!
Also, Happy cake day!
Burt's Bees Renewal Day Lotion spf 30 for face! No white sheen, doesn't settle into lines.
My daughter will be almost 4 by the time baby comes, so I’m wanting something that can be single or double, especially as she gets older. I found the evenflo pivot xpand and I think it’s what we’re going to get.
You could get the Joovy Qool. I’m getting it for the double seat capability because my toddler will be almost 2 when baby is here. They have a bench that you can buy that clips into the back and you can buckle older kids into it. That way, if your 4 year old gets tired, they could sit on the bench while buckled in and easily hop off when they want to walk.
https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B07C35QB2X/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_SY127E827Z56JKC8F4FZ
I also recommend this knockoff wholeheartedly! And it looks like they knocked their price down to under $10 USD in response to Haakaa's sale!
I got mine at my local drugstore in the humidifier section but you can get them online Cleaning fish
I wear this powerstep brand and they work really well! I started wearing them in high school and wear them with all my close toe shoes/running shoes. As a warning, they’re a little hard in the beginning!
My tip is to buy a water bottle that you really like! I love this one- it has a flip top to keep the mouth part clean and its super easy to drink from (you just push a button, no taking the whole lid on and off).
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B076JLCN2D/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_fabc_eBkaGb7ZEKC5W
I followed this video’s instructions as soon as I started showing:
I didn’t get any stretch marks last time, and I expected to because my mother has a bunch (although, to be fair, she has three children).
I stayed active and ate well so I gained weight relatively slowly.
I also wore this most of the time, which I think may have helped because my belly was supported.
I am NOT a doctor or expert, these things may not work for you, and they may not work for me this time, but that’s what I did.
Best of luck!
Okay, these have changed my life. May be pricy, but worth it! Breathable and super comfortable.
Maidenform Women's Sport Thong https://www.amazon.com/dp/B079DTWTV8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_YH2KGZTRD8GQAPHJ5VSC?psc=1
You can get them a various retailers.
Happy hunting!
We had a changing station and all supplies in our room. Check out a rolling cart like this: https://www.amazon.com/Asoopher-Organizer-Lockable-Assembly-Bathroom/dp/B08RYJGZDR/ref=sr_1_omk_6?crid=1KKK5UIYIN2LZ&dchild=1&keywords=rolling+cart&qid=1618406739&sprefix=rolling%2Caps%2C596&sr=8-6
These are embarrassing but saved me so much headache last time! My OB gave it to me!
We'll be having baby in our room and we're not going to have a ton of room. I wanted to start out with a bassinet, or maybe a pack n' play, but then I learned that mini cribs exist. We'll probably skip the bassinet and just go with a mini crib, and some of them are designed to be more portable, like this one.
FTM, but we have 3 super snuggly cats that sleep in our bedroom and we have no plans on ever kicking them out so we are going to get this bassinet: https://www.amazon.com/Dream-Me-Karley-Bassinet-Grey/dp/B07DMH3L1H
The reviews are from a lot of cat owners who love it. We chose this over other ones with a mesh covering because it has a reinforced cover. You'll even see some cats sitting on top of the closed cover in the amazon reviews. And itzips open and closed which means no taking the elastic mesh off and on during late night feedings. Plus it's a really good price! Win win all around!
PetSafe Smart Feed Automatic Pet Feeder for Cat and Dogs, Wi-Fi Enabled for iPhone and Android devices (Compatible with Alexa), Portion Control and Programmable Timer for up to 12 Meals per Day https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NR47N2Q/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_B7X8DRXNSMEA69VT4XVB
TalentCell Rechargeable 12V 6000mAh/5V 12000mAh DC Output Lithium Ion Battery Pack for LED Strip and CCTV Camera, Portable Li-ion Battery Bank with Charger, Black (Multi-led Indicator) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00ME3ZH7C/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_GT88NDR8WXX17BT7E9EV?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I got this and then strapped it onto the bottom of the pump. You have to be careful and make sure you get the right voltage to be compatible with your pump. This worked perfectly for my S2! Also - it wasn’t as expensive as it is now. If I would have known ahead of time I was going to pump as much as I did, I would have gotten the S1. I just had no clue our breastfeeding journey would have been as challenging as it was.
I purchased this to help with tension headaches / migraines - I wouldn't say it "cures" them by any means but definitely offers some much-needed relief!
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07MKNK6BD/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o05_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
I think this blog explains fitting in an occasional pump really well. My doctors recommended exclusive breastfeeding for the first 3-4 weeks, then introduce a bottle.
I would definitely have an electric pump ready to go. A haakaa is nice for catching leaking milk but it’s not a real pump. There are so many situations that can occur in the first few days that will necessitate pumping- baby could be premature and lack the physical strength to nurse, baby could refuse to latch for no discernible reason, engorgement, clogged ducts or even mastitis after milk comes in. If you are in the US and have health insurance, your insurance is required to pay for a pump for you. If you’re worried about affording one, I believe WIC will also give you a pump. At the very least I would have a manual hand pump like this one.
I’ve been having tons of migraines with pregnancy (I’ve definitely suffered pre-pregnancy but it feels worse while pregnant since you’re already feeling miserable). I’m sorry you’ve been suffering. 😩 These have helped me! Be Koool Cooling Relief for Migraine, Soft Gel Sheets, 4 Sheets (Pack of 4) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07J4GPKTL/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_4VAATH5Q1NF99702F0YA?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I feel you!! I’ve been suffering from migraines for years and recently went through a two week stint where I had a dull headache every. Single. Day. Ugh.
Like some other comments here, my midwife suggested Tylenol, magnesium supplements, and a cup of coffee for the caffeine. She also suggested electrolyte supplements to add to water, like liquid IV. I used Nuun because my husband already has a bunch on hand from cycling. I really like the strawberry lemon and fruit punch flavors.
Weekly visits to the chiropractor also helped me. On the days I felt insane pressure in my neck and bottom of my skull, I would lie on an acupuncture pillow. I called it my spiky pillow and it was amazing. If I didn’t use it for my head/neck, I usually used it for random aches/pains on my hips (I’d position it under me as I sat on the couch). Here is the one I used: Yoga Acupressure Mat and Pillow Set with Bag - Extra Long 28.7 X 16.5 inch Massage Acupuncture Mat - Naturally Relax Back, Neck and Feet Muscles - Stress and Pain Relief (Black) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08FR8MPCW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_Q7TJR7N6JW5R3N9YSMHS?psc=1
Hope you feel better soon. They really suck.
I used this one as a Diaper Bag and EP'd so had my pump stuff with me everywhereeee I went: https://www.amazon.com/Hafmall-Waterproof-Insulation-Multi-Function-Gray-Black/dp/B075ZN82B6/ref=sr_1_14?dchild=1&keywords=diaper+bag+backpack&qid=1617715032&sr=8-14
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I'd search on amazon "Diaper Bag Backpack"
The one I use is:
Kegel Trainer App: Easy to follow sessions and daily reminders makes this the easy way to strengthen your pelvic floor muscles! Download now: iOS: https://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewSoftware?id=578148339&mt=8&ign-mpt=uo%3D4 Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.jsdev.pfei
But there's probably loads more.
I actually really like my pregnancy pillow. I got a U shaped pillow because I keep ending up on my back. I tried a normal pillow between my knees but it didn’t keep me on my side. I tried an old body pillow but it was too wide and kept me too far from my husband. It also didn’t keep me from going back to sleeping on my back. I like my U shaped pillow. If I end up on my back it’s usually at a slight incline which I’ve read is better. I can also bend it so that there’s very minimal pressure on my hips which is the only way I can sleep. It’s a pain to have to reposition the pillow every time I roll over but so far it’s my only choice. Obviously, this is specific to me and my hips. My biggest complaint is that the pillow is large and makes cuddling difficult but it’s better than the body pillow. I got this one and hope it supports me as my belly grows https://www.amazon.com/PharMeDoc-Pregnancy-Cooling-U-Shape-Maternity/dp/B07WHSQ1SF
I got this one because of the “escape hatch” on one side! PharMeDoc Pregnancy Pillow,... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07WHSQ1SF?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
Sleeping great with it so far and the debilitating hip pain is GONE
I got two maternity dresses on Amazon. They are both thin, but one is better than the other so I will link it. However, I would only get a dark color. I ordered the blush pink one and it was see through:
Liu & Qu Women's Maternity Bodycon Ruched Side Dress Casual Short & 3/4 Sleeve Dress for Daily Wearing Or Baby Shower https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07FDW41MD/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_E1WKNG5DTQB4K3ZPBG1M?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I have been loving these from Amazon. They’re pretty thin material so would be good summer lounge pants.
This one is pretty cute. They have a lot of options on Amazon. I've had good luck with their swimwear for non-maternity items.
Just to update you, I’ve been wearing the belt for over an hour now and honestly felt the relief immediately. It was cheap and so far so good.
Maternity Belt, Pregnancy Support Belt, Breathable Belly Band - Back Hip & Pelvic Support Lumbar Relief Prenatal & Postpartum Tummy Wrap Abdominal Sling Prenatal Cradle - Universal Size https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07YBGPLRN/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_T2SX3KQ7HFWTMH5Z7R3A?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I keep seeing these (https://www.amazon.com/RBX-Straight-Lightweight-Stretch-Charcoal/dp/B08S5NN897/ref=sr_1_6?crid=5DQSICX1AL0P&dchild=1&keywords=rbx+activewear+womens&qid=1617030816&sprefix=rbx+%2Caps%2C182&sr=8-6) straight leg joggers in all my targeted ads and I'd love to find a maternity option. Not a huge fan of shorts and I think these would be perfect for the later spring/early summer. Anyone out therehave something like this?
I haven’t tried that one, but I did buy this one when I was 7 mos pregnant last time and LOVED it. Boppy Pregnancy Wedge, Scallop Trellis Gray and White, Maternity Wedge with removable jersey cover https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N06ZFIX/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_CSSB2FBBC2TFWZC0920H
I bought these under the bump and these over the bump
Not the cutest, but at least they feel comfortable
This is the one I have! I try to keep it around 100 degrees and it does end up cooling off and feeling kind of cold pretty quickly but anything is better than nothing. https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B073GGVN3Q/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_KVZX6358KKKHJT1M00NQ
Just when TTC, it's not really tested in pregnancy but is no longer needed for the cell division aspect. It is good for the heart so I just gave what was left to my husband.
I took this one and took 2 pills per day until I got a positive test. Again, can't be sure that it helps, but it's very common for people in IVF cycles to take and there is some data that it helps with cell division, so I figured it would make sense that it helps prevent some genetic issues. If you want more info, I first read about it in It Starts with the Egg.
Nothing is worse than repeat losses. The first can feel like a fluke, but it's hard to accept that the second is also just bad luck. But for me it was. Hopefully you'll be pregnant again with a healthy baby soon!
I love the outfits you shared. They're super cute. Though the sundress may have the waist a bit too low. It would be better to find one that goes loose under the boobs to have more room for stomach growth.
I bought these which aren't technically maternity clothes but will work really well for it. They are so comfy and I think they're pretty cute too.
I just ordered a small pillow cause sleeping on my side is killing my back and hips. I’m hoping some support helps! I also ordered a small pillow hoping it wouldn’t retain as much warmth.
this is the one I ordered. it has some mixed reviews but I’m hopeful! It’s arriving tomorrow.
I bought these pants for myself and my best friend while we were pregnant (not at the same time) and we still wear them ALL the time. Loose Lounge Pants
Mika Micky Bedside Sleeper Bedside Crib Easy Folding Portable Crib,Grey https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B07J232RV4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_3BV2GKR85HH2T7WH0Q9W?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
This is what we used and I loved it. The side zips down so you can pull it right next to your bed and easily reach in to baby. When she was a little older and we weren’t quite ready to transition her to her crib we zipped up the side and moved her a little further from our bed but liked having her close by.
I wore a ridiculous amount of long tube top dresses last time around. They were comfy and easy. Not too bad for hot weather either. I don’t think they were the most flattering thing but it was better than most things.
I think this time around I’m going to look for long sleeve maternity dresses. The wind/air blows through the fabric so they’re not that hot. I just didn’t like revealing too much skin once I started to feel giant.
Like this: https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B079RTS99V/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_P26W793WAZ4SXM7ZT1E7
I had this one from Micka Micky and it was PERFECT! At some point I would just roll it around the house with baby inside. I was a teeny bit wary about the tiny strip of fabric on the sides that wasn’t mesh though. You can also attach it to the side of your bed but I don’t think it’s considered safe sleeping.
We also had the Fisher price soothing motions bassinet and that was okay too. You can rock it a little bit to help baby go to sleep and it vibrates. The Snoo always looked like it was rocking babies a little too rough for my taste and the price is definitely not great. You can get a 30% off discount if you’re a physician, nurse, or military though. I would say once they’re maybe 5/6 months you have to move to a crib anyway.
https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B07J232RV4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_W3KBXWCX9KAGFPB8F35T
Thanks for starting this thread!! I’ve had luck with a couple tops on Amazon. Some are garbage and some are nice, it’s luck of the draw it seems. I’m a prime member and have had no issues returning the stuff I did not like.
Here are the tops I am happy with and am keeping. They are very roomy but not so much that I can’t wear them right now at 14 weeks. I either tuck them in or use a clear hair elastic to create a bunched up waist.
Active Birth is the book I liked. It’s old. But I really liked the logical/physical approach rather than the spiritual/mental approach. And no, I have yet to find a hypnobirthing book I like yet. I’ve just downloaded some audio meditations that I’m going to try 🤷🏼♀️. Let me know if you find a good one :)
I got this one from Amazon and like it a lot.
Meiz Full Body Pregnancy Pillow - with 300TC Comfy Cotton Pillowcase & Microfiber Inner Cover- for Back Support - King Size (Grey) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B075TZB1VY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_JN6NAWA8Q0HVJQK5MGEW?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
You could also just have babe sleep in a long sleeve onesie/shirt with no pants! I liked the ones that have the fold-over cuffs so they can't scratch their face up in their sleep. Like these.
I use this little floss brush, it’s been a lifesaver but I’m sort of lazy. DenTek Easy Brush Interdental Cleaners Between Tight Teeth, 6 (Pack of 3), 1 Count https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07N6ZWLBQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_S36WB2866HV34NBX301A?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
This is the first book he read, he said it was the most helpful in how to be there for me: The Expectant Father: Facts, Tips, and Advice for Dads-to-Be
Good luck and remember you are growing a little human body with your own body, don’t be so hard on yourself or let others get you down!
Like this! “Baby Bump” Premium Maternity Shapewear, High Waisted Mid-Thigh Pregnancy Underwear Prevent Chaffing Soft Adominal Support https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07K1RGV7H/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_9FTA4CD2CBRW9XMFZJGE?psc=1
Like this! “Baby Bump” Premium Maternity Shapewear, High Waisted Mid-Thigh Pregnancy Underwear Prevent Chaffing Soft Adominal Support https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07K1RGV7H/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_9FTA4CD2CBRW9XMFZJGE?psc=1
I use an Si belt. It's not maternity specific, but I found it really great my last pregnancy. It keeps my hips nice and tight, and provides support for the belly from underneath.
Buy Used/Cheap:
You can buy all of the above used in practically new quality. You will also receive clothes + toys new from family.
Facebook Marketplace is amazing for all things baby!
Spend Money On:
They are expensive, but if you buy cheap you'll end up buying twice (we did).
Additional Must Haves:
I ended up getting a Panache (Panache Women's Porcelain Elan Seamless Molded T-Shirt Bra (7321) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00OCIDI8C/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_MDFMRZHC39RTM75Z551G?psc=1) and a tshirt bra from Victoria’s Secret. Panache is one of the few brands that carried my size pre-baby and I know I like them!
It’s just your hormonal changes, similar to hot flashes women get during menopause! My mom’s trick is a tiny fan that plugs into your phone 😂
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NXSDCB1/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_KMHSKB9FNFT2KM5TB1GJ
I got this journal and I love the prompts, checklists and reminders of things to do! The First Time Mom’s Pregnancy Journal
I have this:
u shaped pillow that I actually use backwards so my feet are elevated
QUEEN ROSE Pregnancy Pillow -U-Shape with Velvet Cover,Full Body Maternity Pillow for Pregnant Women Sleeping,Gray https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N44MTLJ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glc_fabc_2DmbGbGVPK9JB
Wedge pillow I put behind my back to prevent myself from rolling over but can be used as bump support, when I traveled august 2019 I also brought it to squish in between my legs as a travel maternity pillow
hiccapop Pregnancy Pillow Wedge for Maternity | Memory Foam Maternity Pillows Support Body, Belly, Back, Knees https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01KG84CLI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glc_fabc_jHmbGbKC3TBAZ
I bought a different brand but they are out of stock but here’s a different brand that’s the same thing:
Disposable Urine Bags [12 Pack] – Urinal Bags for Travel – Portable Travel Urine Bag for Emergencies, Camping or Traffic Jam – Leak-Proof and Odorless – Pee Bags for Men and Women – 700ml by: EZ PZ https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08HXLHVVH/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glc_fabc_7gWaGbZ7MPQAH?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I am not the best about drinking water throughout the day, so this morning I got out my trusty water cup that I only use when I'm pregnant.
Big busted girl here. I had to buy several sets of bras during my first pregnancy. I bought a couple in the first trimester, and then late second. I enjoyed this during the last month of pregnancy and breastfeeding https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00YGSEHC4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_fabc_Iqk6Fb0HVYWYH
Maybe look into buying wire ones but size up?