Pregnancy Hacks to Make Your Pregnancy a Little Easier

Congratulations on your pregnancy, mama! You have an exciting journey full of joyous moments ahead, but it can also come with its fair share of challenges as you navigate changes to your lifestyle, mind, and body. Fortunately, there are several clever hacks that can help make the experience smoother and more enjoyable. 

From practical tips to money-saving strategies, we’ve pulled together our favorite pregnancy hacks designed to ease the transition into motherhood. Let’s get started!

Nine months may seem like enough time to prepare for your baby, but time moves quickly when you’re busy with doctor appointments, setting up your nursery, and planning your maternity leave!

Here are a few recommendations to help you kick-start preparations for your little one’s arrival.

Organization is key during pregnancy, and one helpful hack is to schedule all prenatal appointments at the beginning of your pregnancy. This allows you to block off time on your work calendar well in advance, reducing stress and ensuring you don't miss important check-ups.

Many healthcare providers are happy to accommodate this request, understanding the need for expectant mothers to plan ahead. Confirm dates with your employer in advance and discuss expectations around future appointments to ensure your projects, deadlines, and team members are all aligned.

All those cute little onesies and blankets can add up quickly! Save money on baby essentials by looking for special deals or chances to save. 

Here are some ways to get baby items for free or at a reduced cost:

1. Create a baby registry with major retailers, as many offer free welcome kits with samples and coupons.
2. Join parenting clubs and loyalty programs at baby stores for exclusive discounts and freebies.
3. Attend local community baby showers or parenting events, which often provide free samples and educational resources.
4. Check with your hospital about free classes or resources for new parents.

Find more advice on how to prepare for baby on a budget—and access freebies—on our blog!

In addition to working with your healthcare providers, apps are a great way to help you navigate information and find helpful resources throughout your pregnancy and beyond. From pregnancy tracking and education to accessing breastfeeding and pumping support, apps have become increasingly popular tools for new and expecting moms trying to sift through a mountain of information.

Ask other moms you know about their favorite apps and try a few to find the ones that work for you. And for even more friendly advice, join our Facebook Group, Aeroflow Breastpumps: The Pumping Room! Full of mamas in the know, this online community is a safe space designed to help you and your support partners share stories, provide encouragement, and receive expert guidance from our clinicians.

Find our favorite pregnancy and postpartum apps here.

From avoiding restless nights to investing in lumbar support, comfort is key during pregnancy! Here’s our advice on finding the right clothes, movement, and nourishment to keep you happy, healthy, and comfortable throughout your pregnancy. 

As your body changes, comfort becomes increasingly important. One simple yet effective hack is to invest in slip-on, loose-fitting shoes for around the house and other informal environments. This eliminates the struggle of bending over to tie laces with a growing baby bump and accounts for potential foot swelling. Opt for shoes that can accommodate slight size changes, saving you from having to buy new footwear later in your pregnancy. 

You may also consider investing in a few additional pairs of shoes to fill out your wardrobe. Opt for a smart casual shoe in a solid color that can be dressed up or down for work, comfortable walking shoes that can support running errands and low-impact exercise, and a low-heeled shoe with adjustable straps for fancier occasions. 

Support garments can be a game-changer for pregnant women. From maternity support bands to compression socks, these products can help alleviate discomfort and improve mobility. Support bands can reduce lower back pain and provide abdominal support, while compression socks can help prevent swelling in the feet and ankles. Many of these items may even be covered by insurance, so it's worth checking with your provider. You can even add postpartum compression and shapewear to your baby registry to accommodate your changing body after delivery.

Dressing your body throughout pregnancy is also important for optimizing your comfort. Whether you choose to revamp your entire wardrobe or invest in a few key pieces of maternity clothing, it’s up to you, mama! Find everything you need to discover your pregnancy style here.

Meal prepping is another valuable hack that can save time and reduce stress, especially in the later stages of pregnancy and early postpartum period. Preparing and freezing meals in advance ensures you'll have nutritious options readily available when you're too tired or busy to cook. Ask your loved ones to prepare and store more meals during the early postpartum period to ensure you have one less thing to worry about.

Staying hydrated is crucial during pregnancy, but it can be challenging to keep track of water intake! One easy way to help you get enough fluids is using marked water bottles that show how much you should drink by certain times of the day. This visual reminder can help ensure you're getting plenty of water. Aim for at least 8 to 12 eight-ounce glasses of water daily, and increase intake during hot weather or physical activity.

Rest is important during pregnancy, but it can also be challenging to find time or feel comfortable enough to sleep. Talk to your partner and loved ones to ensure you have the time and support required to rest—and don't underestimate the power of a good pregnancy pillow! These specially designed pillows can significantly improve sleep quality by providing support for your changing body, reducing discomfort, and promoting better rest. 

Pregnancy and postpartum are also critical times to look after your mental health. Every mama’s journey is different, but there are a few steps you can take to practice self-care, including fostering connections to build your pregnancy community, engaging in mindfulness, and embracing compassion. 

You can find more advice in this blog post and access evidence-based, judgment-free classes and support through Canopie, our maternal mental health partner. As always, speak to your healthcare provider about any concerns you may have and to find more resources catered to your specific needs.

Regular exercise during pregnancy can help manage weight gain, improve mood, and prepare your body for labor. It can also help reduce the risk of developing pregnancy-related health conditions, such as gestational diabetes, gestational hypertension, and preeclampsia.

Low-impact activities like swimming, prenatal yoga, and walking are excellent options. The CDC recommends aiming for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week, but always consult with your healthcare provider before starting or continuing any exercise routine during pregnancy.

Pelvic pain is common during pregnancy, but there are ways to find relief. Try gentle pelvic tilts, cat-cow stretches, or seated pelvic rocks. A pelvic support belt can also help alleviate discomfort. For severe pain, consult with your healthcare provider about seeing a physical therapist specializing in prenatal care.

A balanced diet is crucial for both you and your growing baby. Focus on nutrient-dense foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Speak with your healthcare provider for help with your pregnancy nutrition.

Your diet can also impact your breastfeeding outcomes. Check out our recommendations on accommodating special diets, creating a balanced diet, and the best supplements for breastfeeding here. Plus, discover more information about foods to avoid, safe exercise tips, other lifestyle changes you may need to make while pregnant on our blog. 

By implementing these pregnancy hacks, expectant mothers can navigate their journey with greater ease and confidence. Remember, every pregnancy is unique, so it's essential to consult with healthcare providers before trying new products or making significant changes to your routine. 

The team at Aeroflow Breastpumps is always here to help answer any questions you may have throughout your pregnancy, breastfeeding, or postpartum journey. You can also reach out to us directly by calling 1-844-867-9890 or visit our website to find FAQs, insurance eligibility information on getting a prescription for a breast pump, and more. 

With a little preparation and these smart strategies, you'll be well-equipped to handle the challenges and joys of pregnancy.