Build a sustainable self-care routine
It's easy to start with enthusiasm, but longevity and consistency are key to a positive pregnancy journey through self-care. Like everything in motherhood, self-care is different for every expectant mum. It might be taking half an hour for a bath alone, a walk around the block, time with a friend, or simply ignoring the housework to bond with the little soul in your belly. Self-care for mothers encompasses all of this and more. Discover what elevates your soul, makes you smile, and brightens your day, then make it a regular part of your routine. A pregnant mama who prioritises her well-being is better equipped to handle the challenges of motherhood.
Listen to your body
There are times and stages during pregnancy when you may be thriving with newfound energy and other times when you feel flat. Acknowledge where you are and adjust your self-care routine accordingly. Some days you may feel like you could conquer Mount Everest, while other days, a book and the couch are just what you need
A Balanced Diet - include plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats. Nutrients like iron, calcium, and omega-3s are especially beneficial during pregnancy. Since your body requires more energy while growing your baby, eating small, frequent meals can be helpful. Always accept a home-cooked meal, an offer to pick up groceries, or the convenience of a meal service if you're feeling overwhelmed. If you have specific dietary concerns, seek professional advice from a dietitian or your healthcare provider.
Movement - Exercise releases endorphins, nature's mood enhancers, making pregnancy a perfect time to adopt healthy lifestyle changes. Medical experts suggest that all healthy pregnant women aim for at least 30 minutes of physical activity on most days of the week, offering numerous benefits for both mother and baby. Additionally, exercising during pregnancy can greatly aid in postpartum recovery by improving cardiovascular health, rebuilding muscles strained during pregnancy, and alleviating back issues from carrying your little one. Start your movement journey now to enjoy these benefits
Community - Connecting with other mums-to-be who are experiencing similar feelings can be super comforting. Consider joining local or online support groups specifically for new mamas. These groups offer a chance to connect with people who totally get what you're going through. You can share your thoughts, get valuable insights, and receive emotional support during this transformative time.
Skincare Tips
As any expectant parent quickly learns, pregnancy comes with an overwhelming list of dos and don’ts, from what to eat and drink to how to lie down in bed—and what’s safe to put on your skin. Some of this advice is backed by science, but plenty of it arrives unsolicited from friends, family and acquaintances with good intentions and, shall we say, questionable credentials.
A general morning and night skin care routine to get you started on your quest for the best sheen may look like this.
- First, use lukewarm water to wash your face with a mild cleanser.
- Next, apply a serum (if desired).
- After that, apply a moisturizer that fits your skin type.
- Then, apply an eye cream (if needed).
- For daytime, add a broad-spectrum mineral-based sunscreen on your face and exposed skin.
Dry Skin - There’s no doubt that pregnancy requires a lot from your body, so if your baby-to-be needs more water at any point, they’ll pull it from your body. This, along with hormonal changes, can result in dry skin. To combat this, drink plenty of water and use moisturizing products containing coconut oil, cocoa butter, peptides, and hyaluronic acid (HA) to enhance hydration. To help prevent stretch marks, regularly moisturize areas prone to stretching, which can support your skin as your bump and baby grow.
Sun Protection - Sun protection is one of the most important things you can do for long-term wrinkles and skin cancer protection. But how you safely protect your skin during pregnancy is the question. The safety of some chemical sunscreens, such as oxybenzone, is still uncertain, so consider using mineral-based sunscreens that protect the skin by forcing the UV rays to bounce off the skin entirely. Mineral-based sunscreen ingredients include zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. And don’t forget that wide-brimmed hat to add some fashionable shade.
Hormonal Acne - If acne is getting progressively worse in pregnancy, leaving scars or marks, not responding to over-the-counter options and/or affecting your self-esteem and mental health, then we recommend getting professional advice from a dermatologist or GP.
Comfort is Key
Investing in Comfortable Maternity Lingerie
Motherhood is an adventure; you don't have time for uncomfortable nursing bras. Traditional rigid underwires can become increasingly painful as your bump grows. Transitioning to a Wirefree or Flexi Underwire style can significantly enhance your comfort during this period. With six rows of hooks and eyes on every Hotmilk Lingerie Maternity bra, you can adjust the width of your band daily, ensuring the perfect support and comfort level. Pregnancy is an incredible journey, and it's crucial to have lingerie that fits well and offers the essential support and comfort needed throughout.
Investing in Comfortable Maternity Clothing
Tight and uncomfortable clothing will not help you fall in love with your new and changing body. Maternity clothing with ruching, empire waistline and long silhouettes embrace and flaunt your growing bump. Stretchy waistbands, room to grow and forgiving fabrics are key to comfortable maternity clothing. A few key staples in your wardrobe will have you feeling amazing during pregnancy. Shop the perfect loungewear for relaxing around home here. We also love this blog from The BUMP on Maternity Clothing 101 - The Complete Buying Guide
