Prepare proper pillow, shoes
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By Jane Han
We all have those “I wish I” moments in life. And of course, during pregnancy is no exception.
Looking back at my past 36 weeks, there are definitely some things I wish I’d done to make the nine-month journey a bit easier on my mind and body.
Before I go on with the list, I’d like to put it out there from the start.
Most of these tips involve buying stuff early on to get your money’s full nine months’ worth. The advice comes from someone (me) who has to convince herself almost daily that the end is too near to spend money on anything maternity anymore.
OK, so here goes.
Do yourself — and your husband — a favor and buy a soft and comfy C-shaped body pillow. This is a must-have item I should have bought 15 kilograms ago, before my bulging tummy started getting in the way in bed. Constantly.
I made the mistake of pushing off this purchase, so now I’m paying the price every night by having to build my own pillow system that can somehow help me fall asleep. That is, until I have to wake up again an hour later for a bathroom break.
So basically, I have to rebuild my pillow fortress at least five to six times during any given night. Sounds like a pain? It is a pain. I can’t emphasize enough. Get the pillow.
Next, invest in a good, I repeat, good maternity belly band from the very first days of pregnancy. This is an absolute must if you don’t want your stomach to end up sagging too low and too soon.
I don’t know what I was thinking (obviously not thinking), but I began using the band much after 25 weeks when my tummy had already dropped low and backaches kicked in.
Of course it can become annoying to wear this extra piece of tight band around an already uncomfortable belly. But take it from someone who went free style. It’s better to tighten up sooner than later.
Another necessity is maternity intimates. I know some moms-to-be, particularly those who don’t gain much, say they don’t need to buy maternity undergarments. But, oh my, what a world of a difference they make.
Yes, they’re not exactly the most flattering looking intimates on earth. But now isn’t the time to look for flattering when your belly and breasts are about to blast off.
Besides, these intimates aren’t just for pregnancy but for post-pregnancy as well, so it’s not a bad idea to invest in a few pieces that could make your body comfortable for a good six months or more.
Let’s now talk about shoes. I personally have very boney feet so I didn’t think my feet would swell enough for me to need bigger shoes. Another mistake.
My feet have quickly become an unidentifiable body part over the past couple weeks. I look down at them and wonder whose they are. No joke.
I haven’t been out much lately so I decided to pass on buying a new pair just to wear during this final stretch, but only if I knew this moment would come, I would’ve had one ready.
My advice is to buy a comfy pair that’s one size bigger than your usual for the last trimester.
I think that’s about it. Contrary to popular belief, maternity clothes aren’t actually a necessity for some women, especially if you already own a bunch of clothes that are boxy or empire-waist. That was the case for me.
I say look at your closet first and find what works before going out on a shopping spree. And don’t even go straight to the maternity specialty store because, for some reason, anything that has the word “maternity” carries a huge price premium.
Oh, and one last thing. And this is free.
Have your husband watch those step-by-step massage lessons on YouTube.
When second- and third-trimesters come along and full body aches kick in, you’ll be glad he’s got you covered. The only catch is that you’ll have to talk him into doing it. Good luck!