Pregnancy can be physically vexing. Everything is too tight or restrictive or doesn’t offer enough support. Things smell bad, and it’s difficult to get comfortable in bed. Luckily, we found a few items that can help ease that nine-month journey.
Lily Trotters compression socks
Polka dots, lotus flowers, candy stripes – who knew high-performance compression socks could be so cute? Studies have shown that compression stimulates blood flow and reduces lactic acid buildup. Not only do these socks help alleviate swollen legs and feet during pregnancy, but the moderate compression also helps prevent blood clots. You can use them post-pregnancy too; wearing these socks will help with muscle soreness and leg recovery after hard workouts. $48, lilytrotters.com
Gap maternity support cami
This nylon and spandex camisole is very comfortable and fits like a glove. With a built-in shelf bra and adjustable spaghetti straps, it’s exactly what you need to wear when everything else feels totally uncomfortable. $22.95, gap.com
Burt’s Bees Mama Bee Belly Butter
This belly butter is 99 percent natural, made of cocoa, shea and jojoba butters, and fragrance-free (yet still smells good). It’s made without phthalates, parabens, petrolatum or formaldehyde, and the best part? It can be found at ordinary grocery stores and won’t break the bank. It won’t always prevent stretch marks, but it will always help when getting a foot massage from your partner. $13, burtsbees.com
Gin-Gins ginger candy
Your nose is probably your biggest trigger during your pregnancy. Everything – from your husband’s cologne to the smell of steak – will make you feel queasy or nauseous. Ginger candies are a safe, natural way to relieve morning-sickness symptoms. Gin-Gins can be found at health food stores and on Amazon and come in four flavors: peppermint, apple, natural and super strength. $2 a bag, gingerpeople.com
Gabrialla Elastic Maternity Support Belt
When you’re too big to even move, a belly band could be your best friend. It relieves some of your back pressure, supports the uterus and adds a little lift to your stomach. It is adjustable, with elastic straps that make it easy to wear if your baby still has a way to grow. $32.41, gabrialla.com
Leachco Snoogle body pillow
Give yourself a chance to get some great sleep before the baby arrives with this large snuggle friend. Once it’s part of your routine, you can maneuver it any way you want to get comfy. Wrap your legs around it, spoon it or settle it by your hips; it’s especially great if you’re a back- or side-sleeper to relieve your sore hips and legs. $49, leachco.com
