The Lady Olive

Getting out of the first trimester is something like graduating from high school. It seems to take FOREVER, your skin breaks out, you’re anxious but excited, and much like when you get that college acceptance letter, you might not be ready to shout it through the rooftops, but it’s all you can think about! Fortunately the first trimester doesn’t last for 4 years, but the rapid changes to your body (mostly invisible to the outside world), intense fatigue and for many, the unbearable morning (aka “all- day”) sickness, can make it seem like a race you can’t wait to finish.

I very lazily kept a journal during my pregnancy with Paul John, mostly noting my aversion to onions, red sauce, garlic, vegetables and meat (what’s left,  you might ask) and this time around I want to have more “evidence” of my journey, because it is fun to look back on, “proof” if you will.

My first trimester was similar to last time but honestly a little better which has been a welcome blessing. This time around, I knew what to expect and had my game face ready. I armed myself with an arsenal of must-haves to get me through that rat race to the second tri and I am here to share them with you!

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1. Bella Band– Did you know your uterus expands to the size of a grapefruit in the first trimester? Even if you don’t gain much weight in those first twelve weeks, chances are you will experience major bloat and discomfort when trying to squeeze into your skinny jeans. Around 9 weeks I was already noticing my pants did not feel too good so I brought out the Bella Band. This is the key to continue wearing your normal clothes for as long as possible. Maternity clothes might seem exciting at first but by the end you will be very much ready to send your maternity clothes packing.
2. Witch Hazel– I have oily skin and struggle to maintain a clear complexion as it is. Add some crazy hormones to the mix and you’re fairly doomed. Witch hazel is a surprising powerhouse when it comes to calming red and angry hormonal acne. Consistency and patience are key when dealing with hormonal acne and whatever you do- DO NOT PICK!
3. B-6– My doctor suggested I take B6 each morning when I complained of moderate nausea. I feel so lucky to have not been sick to the point of vomiting, but I have felt pretty “bleh” on numerous occasions. B6 helps you metabolize protein and carbohydrates and I strongly believe that with the help of this supplement, I was able to eat a more balanced diet than I did during the 1st tri of my 1st pregnancy.
4. Sunday Riley Ceramic Slip Cleanser– I fell in love with this cleanser during my pregnancy with Paul. I used to think the only way to keep my skin clear was with Salicylic Acid which is on the “NO” list to use during pregnancy. I loved this cleanser so much I never switched back!
5. Preggie Pop Drops-These taste like candy but contain B6 and essential oils which aid in nausea relief. They taste really good and help take your mind off feeling sick to your stomach. Coca-Cola also helps but I probably shouldn’t brag about it…
6. Sweet Almond Oil-Stretch mark prevention can never start too early! It can be hard to add another step to your routine so get started before you really need it! This oil is $9, fragrance free and contains 2 ingredients: pure almond oil and natural vitamin E. It’s is so hydrating and absorbs quickly. I order mine from Vitacost!

 

Ok guys those are my first trimester must-have, cannot live without items. I either stumbled on these or they were recommended to me by a doctor or friend which means- I think you might have some more recommendations to share! What helped you survive the first trimester!? And while I’m asking questions, what else would you like to see from this blog? Mom stuff? Recipes? Maternity style? Let me know in the comments!

xo