Let’s be real for a second – there are so many recommendations out there for pregnancy must-haves, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. I was right there with you, wondering if I really needed half of the things people were suggesting. 1st Trimester Must Haves for Your Pregnancy will be a great read!
The truth is, a few carefully chosen items can go a long way in helping you feel more comfortable and prepared in the first trimester.
Before you write them off, let me show you how these essentials can make this journey a little easier as a Orange County Maternity Photographer who sees lots of pregnant ladies.
Pregnancy Journal
A pregnancy journal is one of the best things you can start ASAP in your 1st trimester!
Most people think it’s just about writing down cravings and cute moments, but it goes so much deeper. It can help track symptoms you might forget when talking to your doctor or midwife (hello, pregnancy brain)
You’ll also want to record emotional shifts, changes in your body, and even early baby movements.
I’ll never forget when I was pregnant I took about 5 minutes each day to write down what I was feeling and I discovered that I don’t remember some of those experiences, feelings and so glad I took 5 mins a day to write them down looking back now.
You will be so happy you have these moments to read back on!
Want more ideas for what to write about in your journal?
Check out my blog post on 25 Unique Pregnancy Journal Prompts
Anti Nausea Products
Morning sickness typically starts around 6 weeks and typically ends around 12 – 14 weeks.
So if you’re feeling queasy, anti-nausea products are an absolute lifesaver during the first trimester.
Ginger candies are a classic go-to, but don’t forget to try magnesium supplements or acupressure wristbands like Sea-Bands. They can make a huge difference in calming that constant wave of nausea.
If scents work for you, sniffing peppermint or lemon essential oil can bring instant relief.
I am sick almost the entire first trimester with every pregnancy, and while it was kinda reassuring, it made it hard to do literally anything. I always recommend Preggie Pop Drops to newly pregnant moms struggling with morning sickness or nausea as they help me so much!
A Newborn, Maternity and/or Birth Photographer
It’s never too early to start looking for your newborn, maternity, or birth photographer! I’m a Orange County Maternity Photographer if you’re looking.
Photographers who specialize in these areas tend to book up fast, so getting a jump start in your first trimester ensures you snag the best fit (plus, you’ll have time to research what to look for).
At this point, my calendar for newborn photography fills up about 3 months in advance so keep this in mind when shopping for a newborn photographer!)
Considering booking a pregnancy or maternity photographer? Click here to read The Surprising Reasons You Should Take Huntington Beach Maternity Photos.
Curious how newborn photography works? Click here to read What to Ask When Interviewing A Newborn Photographer.
Decide how to take your weekly bump pictures
Start your weekly bump pics early! It’s a fun way to capture your pregnancy journey, even when that little bump isn’t quite showing yet.
Plus, you will love seeing the changes over time!
A simple way to begin is choosing a spot with good natural light, wearing the same outfit for consistency, and using a tripod or asking a friend for help.
Some moms use a fruit to show the size of their baby each week, which is a fun idea (just make sure you plan ahead so you have that fruit ready to go)
I didn’t think my bump was growing until I looked back at the weekly photos and it was so fun to see my little one growing! I realized it was harder to see myself without the photos.
To stay consistent – try tying your weekly bump pic in with something you’re already doing every week. Like Monday morning before work or Saturday after getting home from the farmer’s market.
Start early, and by the time your belly pops, you’ll have a whole timeline of your baby’s growth!
Bonus tip: Use the timer mode on your phone for easy self-portraits! I did this my 1st 2 pregnancies’.
While researching for this blog post, I came across some suggestions as a mom of 2 kids of my own and 2 surrogate babies that I actually think you can skip in the 1st trimester.
Skip the stretch mark cream: as I did more research on this I found out this is mostly genetic anyway. Sure, use some lotion you already have on your belly as it grows but I would skip on the expensive stretch mark cream.
As for maternity clothes, you’ve got time! Most don’t need them until late in the second trimester, and you can totally make your current wardrobe work by using belly bands or opting for flowy dresses.
Whether you’re currently in your 1st trimester or just planning ahead, remember that these simple must-haves can make a world of difference in how you feel and capture these early moments.
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