What you really need to buy during pregnancy
Alright, let’s cut through the glittery, unicorn-infested fog of pregnancy product marketing. You’re growing a tiny human, not launching a spaceship. Here’s the no-nonsense rundown of what you truly need – and what’s just fluff:
1. Maternity Bra: Support Without the Drama
Worth It: A good maternity/nursing bra is like a trusty sidekick. It should be comfy, supportive, and easy to unhook when your little milk monster demands a snack. Get a couple – one to wear and one to wash (because leaks happen).
Not Worth It: That lacey, bedazzled nursing bra that costs as much as a small car payment? Nope. Your baby doesn’t care about rhinestones. Plus, you’ll be too sleep-deprived to appreciate fancy lingerie.
My recommendations?
2. Stretch Mark Cream: The Great Stretchy Debate
Worth It: Hydrating your skin is essential, especially when it’s stretching like a rubber band. Cocoa butter or coconut oil works just fine. Rub it on your belly, hips, and wherever else gravity is doing its thing. But remember, genetics play a role too – so embrace those tiger stripes.
Not Worth It: The £100 “elixir of eternal youth” that promises to erase stretch marks? Yeah, save your money. Your baby won’t judge you based on skin imperfections. They’ll judge you based on your peek-a-boo skills.
My recommendations?
3. Pregnancy Pillow: The Sleep Fortress
Worth It: Pregnancy pillows are like cuddling a cloud. They support your belly, back, and legs, turning your bed into a sleep sanctuary. Whether you’re Team C-Shaped or U-Shaped, these pillows are sanity savers. Plus, they double as barricades to keep your partner from stealing the blanket. Look for one you can double up as a nursing pillow after.
Not Worth It: That “300 high-tech pillow with built-in speakers, a mini-fridge, and a GPS tracker? Nope, just nope. Your regular body pillow or a simple U-shaped one will do the job. Save the fancy gadgets for your baby registry.
My recommendations?
4. Pregnancy Vitamins: The Real MVPs
Worth It: Prenatal vitamins are like insurance for your growing bean. They fill in the gaps when your pregnancy cravings involve more pickles than nutrients. Look for ones with folic acid, iron, and a side of sanity.
Not Worth It: The unicorn-shaped gummy vitamins that taste like candy? Sorry, they won’t cut it. Opt for the real deal – swallow those horse pills like a boss.
My recommendations?
5. Books: Knowledge Nuggets Without the Fluff
Worth It: A solid pregnancy book is your crash course in baby-making. Look for ones that explain the science, prepare you for labour, and don’t sugarcoat the messy bits.
Not Worth It: The mystical tome that promises to unlock the secrets of cosmic parenting? Yeah, leave that in the fantasy section. Stick to practical advice, not unicorn spells.
My recommendations?
6. Maternity Clothes: Comfort Over Catwalk
Worth It: Invest in a few key pieces: comfy leggings, loose tops, and a maybe a dress or two. If you need formal clothes for work, opt for stretchy trousers and a few maternity shirts. Prioritise comfort over couture.
Not Worth It: The designer maternity gown that costs more than your monthly rent? Unless it comes with a built-in babysitter, pass. Vinted and hand-me-downs are your new BFFs.
