Oh, mama’s! If you’re here that means that you’ve made it to your first trimester. After years of trying to conceive and struggling with infertility, I was blessed with a fairly easy first trimester of pregnancy. So, this post on my first trimester must haves may not include some of the typical items you’ll find on other lists! For example, I started using this belly oil early to try my best to avoid stretch marks later. And, I didn’t think I’d ever be taking aspirin everyday (but I’ll share what it’s used for below). This is everything that got me through the first 12 weeks of growing a baby.
First Trimester Must Haves
During your first trimester you may not have told many people that you’re pregnant yet. But, if you’ve told a few select friends or family. you might hear that everyone’s pregnancy experience is unique. And, it couldn’t be more true. Your body will react in a way that’s specific to you and based on your lifestyle, health conditions – even the food choices you make! So, above all else, remember this: give yourself a break. Take a nap when you need it. Put your feet up if they hurt. Try not to compare your pregnancy to anyone else’s. Your first trimester must haves might be different than your closest friends (all I wanted to do was live in bralettes). Do what works for you! Below are the items I needed in my first trimester.
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Everything you Need for your First Trimester of Pregnancy
Prenatal vitamins
If you follow me on Instagram, you know I’m a big proponent of taking your daily vitamins. Especially when you’re a mama-to-be, you absolutely need a prenatal multivitamin. I’ve used multiple subscription services the past few years. At the top of my list is Ritual. It can be taken with or without food because it has a delayed release capsule design which is gentle on the stomach. And it’s made with traceable ingredients. So, you’re getting 12 key nutrients with just 2 pills a day.
Hatch Belly Oil
This is entirely vain, but as a 40-year-old getting pregnant for the first time I want to try to avoid stretch marks as much as possible. I did a lot of research and this Hatch Belly Oil came highly rated! I use it every night before bed or after I shower and absolutely love it. It’s quick dry, so I haven’t had any issues with it getting on my pajamas or clothes. I even went as far as getting a small travel vial and brought it with me on every trip we’ve taken so far! Basically, I couldn’t be without it.
Nemah Revitalizing Stretch Mark Cream
This might seem duplicative of the belly oil. But, I specifically use this Revitalizing Stretch Mark Cream by Nemah on my breasts. Using a lotion there just made more sense to me! It’s full of incredibly moisturizing ingredients like shea butter and macadamia oil. But, it’s their signature ingredient, Vanistryl® that makes the magic happen. When activated, it releases a compound designed to reduce tension in the skin. You can also use this on your belly or hips. I just chose different products for different reasons.
Baby Aspirin
Since we’re having an IVF baby, I’m required to take baby aspirin (Bayer Low Dose) every day. Originally, it was to help increase my blood flow to the implantation site during the embryo transfer process. But, my OB has me continuing to take it since it’s said to decrease the risk of pre-term labor. This is one you’ll want to consult your doctor for! I’m by no means a medical expert.
Pregnancy app
If you tracked your ovulation, chances are you already downloaded a pregnancy app too. I used the Ava bracelet when we were trying to conceive and love all the data it gives me! It converts to a pregnancy tracker mode which has a week by week overview of the physical and physiological signs you may be experiencing. Again, I found it to be pretty accurate!
Bralettes
My closest girlfriends always told me that the first sign of pregnancy could be tender breasts. I thought I knew what they meant (hello monthly cycle!). But, once we got pregnant, I finally understood. So, I started wearing bralettes to bed. This one is only $15 and got A TON of use! But, I also love this one I got during the Nordstrom sale (literally wearing it right now).
What to Expect When You’re Expecting Book
They should call this book the pregnancy bible (maybe they do?!). People may suggest lots of books to you. But, this one definitely needs to be on your list of first trimester must haves. It takes you through the week by week changes leading up to giving birth. Since it’s on it’s 5th edition, you shouldn’t be surprised that it’s wildly accurate!
When it comes to other books, we purchased the ones recommended to us by people who had well-behaved kids. Makes sense, right?
Comfy joggers
While I didn’t have any morning sickness, I did get tired during the first trimester. My standard WFH look would be jeans and a top or a dress. But, all I found myself doing in my first trimester was reaching for my Vuori joggers. They stretch. They’re soft. They’re perfect for those afternoons where you just want to lounge on the couch. They’re true to size for a relaxed fit and I own them in several colors (and now sizes) because they’re that good.
High-waist leggings
Normally I’m not the “live in leggings” kinda girl. But, during the first trimester, my align leggings were my best friend. Towards the end of the first tri, clothes start getting tight. I wasn’t showing for quite a bit after. But, I just felt uncomfortable (despite Matt and I did an awesome job of getting out and taking walks my first 12 weeks). These leggings live up to the hype and are definitely worth the investment! I’d grab one size up so you can wear them through your second trimester too.
Water bottle
For the last decade, my New Year’s resolution has been to drink more water. I like to think that prepared me for being pregnant! A normal diet includes drinking 64 fluid ounces of water each day. During pregnancy, doctors will want you to drink up to 96 fluid ounces a day. It’s so important to stay hydrated! The extra water can help alleviate a number of first trimester symptoms like morning sickness, heartburn and swelling. So, grab one of these water bottles that helps you keep track of your water intake. But, beware! You will find yourself going to the bathroom more during the first trimester. And so it begins…
For so many, the first trimester is a tough time. Your list of first trimester must haves may look different than mine and that’s okay! But, hopefully some of the items here are helpful and get you through those first 12 weeks. Message me below with any questions. Good luck, mama’s!
