*There may be affiliate links in this post. Purchases made from these links may earn me a commission at no additional cost to you.*
Pregnancy can be a beautiful, exhausting, difficult, and wonderful experience. Moms are so often trying to get through the day that pregnancy self-care is not at the forefront of their minds. This is especially true for those that already have kids. However, pregnant mothers not only deserve some self-care but need many of the following ideas to have a healthy pregnancy.
1. Take Your Prenatal Vitamins
Prenatal vitamins can be hugely important to both mother and unborn child. Most women do not get the necessary vitamins and minerals from their diets alone. Supplements are necessary for fetal development and the mother’s well-being. It’s not a good idea to skip this step in pregnancy! If you are pregnant and have not been taking vitamin supplements, it’s time to start!
2. Eat a Well Balanced Diet
Being a pregnant woman myself, I understand cravings. However, while we might crave junk food, it is important to remember to eat right. This isn’t to say that you can’t have that ice cream – in moderation, this is not a problem! You have to remember that what you eat also feeds your baby, so take care of yourself and eat healthy options, too.
If you’ve got that sweet tooth and can eat sweets in moderation, you should check out Capalbo’s! Holy moly, their sweet tooth basket looks super yummy! (Find it in the Gifts Under $50 section.)
3. Exercise and/ or Stretch
Exercising during pregnancy can be so difficult. That first trimester is no joke with energy. I know in my first trimester (especially in my third pregnancy) I had no interest in physical activity. It was hard enough to make my kids’ lunch. But when you get the tiniest bit of energy, you may find it helps to work out. Stretching can be especially helpful to your growing belly! Pelvic stretches can come in handy as your body changes.
4. Nap!
Napping during your pregnancy can make a huge impact on your energy and attitude! I know it’s difficult to nap if you have other kids you need to take care of – this has been my case for this pregnancy. So, when you get the opportunity and feel like you need a nap, you should take it! You might even add it to your daily schedule if necessary. A nap is one of my favorite self-care activities when it comes to pregnancy.
5. Epsom Salt Baths
Epsom salt baths have so many benefits for pregnancy! When you’re hips are achy, if hemorrhoids are out of control, or if you just need to relax, this can help you! I discovered this little hack in my second pregnancy when achy hips were horrendous and continued it into my third pregnancy almost weekly. I use Dr Teal’s Foaming Bath with Pure Epsom Salt, Soothe & Sleep with Lavender, 34 Ounces If you’re seeking relief from an ache or pain, an Epsom salt bath could be your answer!
6. Pedicure
Listen, it’s hard enough to shave my legs. Touching my feet is a whole other problem. So, if you’re wanting a little pampering or just need those nails painted, a pedicure is the way to go. It can be so relaxing and make your feet look so much better! Give it a go and enjoy yourself.
7. Take a Walk or Sit in the Sun (Use Sunscreen!)
Getting outside has numerous benefits for all people, including pregnant women. When you’re feeling tired, moody, or just want to soak in the Vitamin D for your little one’s bone growth, a little sun exposure is your best bet. Just remember to use sunscreen – getting burnt is not something you want.
8. Prenatal Massage
A prenatal massage can make your achy body feel a bit better. It can also be a great way to relieve some stress. If you’re stressing during pregnancy, there could be negative effects on your baby. A good prenatal massage is a fantastic way to release that stress and improve your wellbeing.
9. Chiropractic Care
Your body goes through a lot of changes during pregnancy. Many chiropractors recommend regular care during pregnancy, as the body is changing continuously. Adjustments can help the hips move into place and prepare for childbirth. It can also help with the pains that are a result of pregnancy.
been harder with 2 toddlers, but I’m making it a priority!
10. Develop a Skin Care Routine
Because of the big change in hormones, many pregnant women experience acne in pregnancy. Sometimes your regular skincare routine isn’t enough to fight off blemishes. A good skincare routine can help to prevent extra acne. Find what works for you and keep it up! Personally, I am unable to use any normal kind of face wash without getting completely dried out and just use Dove Baby Tip to Toe Wash. If what works for you means washing your face twice a day and using a mask once a week, do it! You can feel more positive about your body changing when you aren’t seeing the adverse reaction on your face.
11. Read a Book
I don’t know about you, but reading a book is one of my favorite things to do to relax. Escaping to another world pulls me from any negative thoughts or problems I’m dealing with. It temporarily makes me forget about my woes and struggles when I’m living the life of someone else. Give your real-life problems a break and read about another place! You may find yourself especially relaxed if you read under a soft blanket with a warm drink.
The Benefits of Pregnancy Self-Care
Self-care is important for daily life. Pregnancy takes a lot out of us as moms, so it can be especially important to pay attention to the needs that we don’t always have time for. By striving to take better care of yourself during this time, you can help to develop a healthy baby in a better environment.
From improved fetal development to a positive change in mental health, self-care during pregnancy can help immensely! Try out the above suggestions and let me know how you’re feeling in the comments!