I’m currently residing in that slightly uncomfortable, trouble sleeping, but not yet massive enough to merit constantly lying on the sofa stage of pregnancy, so I thought I’d share some of the things that have really helped me along the way. First up, fashion. I must confess I’ve spent most of the pregnancy wearing COS tunics and not maternity wear at all. I’m now having to concede that the bump needs a little more room, so I’ve turned to ASOS Maternity for help. I’m currently obsessed with this tropical floral print dress, above, £25, which seems both so this season and a little bit 50s. It’s being worn over ASOS maternity skinny jeans, £30, which I hereby declare (having tried many, many pairs) to be the comfiest out there.
My brother-in-law was due to get married in September (I had even bought a super-cute outfit for baba-to-be) but their own unscheduled bump meant they decided to bring it forward to last weekend. Leaving me with a dress dilemma. If you’ve got an occasion to go to while expecting, I cannot recommend Seraphine’s Luxe range enough. I was fortunate to be able to borrow this colour block silk maxi and it was gorgeous – fitting in all the right places and making me feel ultra glam. Lots of compliments, too.
Your feet and legs take a bit of battering when you’re with child. I give mine a bit of help by ditching my heels in favour of Topshop ballet pumps, Converse and (when it’s not chucking it down) Sun-San sandals, and easing aches after particularly hectic days with Burt’s Bees Mama Bee Leg & Foot Creme, £12.99, a reviving concoction of peppermint and rosemary.
Sleep is obviously vital, but tricky when you’re used to sleeping on your front as I am. Last pregnancy, I swore by my FormFix pillow, but it was looking a little less than full of beans when I got it out, so I thought I’d try By Carla’s Heat-Regulating Cuddle Me pillow and I love it. It supports in all the right places and rolls up into a handy carry bag so you can cart it around with you. Admittedly a bit of a passion killer, but needs must. £39.14, Babes2Tots.
I’m pretty lucky in that I don’t suffer from morning sickness, but, as a vegetarian, my iron levels do dip, so this time I’ve been taking Spatone iron supplement, sachets of iron-rich water that don’t seem to have the same adverse side effects as tablets. It’s a revelation – really does seem to have combatted the exhaustion. My other half is also a convert and much less reluctant to respond to early toddler alarm calls. Result! £5.69 for 28 sachets, Amazon. I’m also supping the marvellous Earth Mama Angel Baby Third Trimester Tea, £4.95 for 16 teabags, chock full of vitamins and goodies such as iron-rich nettle and rosehips, calming chamomile, calcium-packed oat straw and the ubiquitous raspberry leaf.
I am however blighted by stretch marks, despite having access to the most effective (and expensive) lotions and potions and slathering myself in Bio Oil – what can I say, it’s a genetic thing. I have found great comfort in the soothing powers of Mama Naked’s Serenity Stretch Mark Cream, £3.99, packed full of super-hydrating cocoa butter and soybean, and a bargain so you can afford to be generous with it.
Once I finish at the office next week, my main priority will be relaxation. I’ve been practising antenatal yoga using the fab Buddha Bellies DVD, £14.99, as I couldn’t find a class to fit in with my working hours/childcare (note to yoga teachers – please run later evening classes) and I’m a big fan of a scented candle, especially these organic pregnancy therapy candles from Mamissima, £14. Made from 100% organic plant wax, the lavender one is a great sleep aid and apparently the warm wax can be used as a stretch mark treatment, although I haven’t tried this yet. Fab gift too. I’ll also be booking myself in for a few pampering sessions and a long-lasting gel pedicure at my favourite salon, Shine, as I’m guessing I won’t have much time for beautifying once number two arrives! So, fellow mamas-to-be, which products can’t you live without?
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