A few well-chosen comforts can make everyday life in pregnancy easier. You do not need a whole new wardrobe or a cupboard full of specialist products: start with what you already own, then add things that solve a problem you actually have.
These nine ideas cover comfort, useful information and support. They are a starting point, rather than a shopping list every pregnant woman has to complete.
1. Pillows that help you get comfortable
An ordinary pillow between your knees or beneath your bump may make side-lying more comfortable. A longer pregnancy pillow is another option if you like the extra support and have room for it.
From 28 weeks, start every sleep on your side, including naps. Either side is fine. If you wake on your back, simply roll onto your side. This is the advice from Safer Baby; you do not need a special pillow to follow it.
Our guide to pregnancy pillows explains what they can help with and how to keep adult pillows separate from your baby’s sleep space.
2. Clothes with room to move
Soft waistbands, stretchy fabrics and clothes that do not dig in can be welcome as your shape changes. You might use loose pieces you already own, borrow a few things or buy second-hand maternity clothes.
Choose for your everyday life. A comfortable pair of trousers for work may be more useful than a large maternity wardrobe bought all at once.
3. A bra that fits comfortably
If your usual bra starts to feel tight or rub, try a different size or style. Look for support that feels comfortable, with straps and a band that do not dig in.
You can choose a maternity or nursing bra if its features suit you, but the label matters less than the fit. Recheck comfort as your body changes rather than buying several in one size early on.
4. Comfortable, steady shoes
Choose shoes that fit well, feel stable and have a non-slip sole. Low-heeled, supportive shoes may be easier to manage than high heels, especially if you have back discomfort. Adjustable fastenings can be useful if your usual fit changes.
New pain or swelling needs attention rather than simply a larger shoe. Contact your maternity team immediately for pain or swelling in one leg, or sudden swelling of your hands, face or feet.
5. Reliable information and your care team’s details
A recent pregnancy book can be useful, but you do not have to buy one. Your library, antenatal classes and Australian health services are good places to start.
Keep your maternity unit’s number, appointment details and questions together on your phone or in a notebook. For general information, Pregnancy, Birth and Baby is a useful Australian resource. Ask your own doctor or midwife how general advice applies to your pregnancy.
6. Advice about back or pelvic support, if you need it
A pregnancy support belt is optional. If back or pelvic pain is affecting your day, ask your doctor, midwife or physiotherapist what might help. A support garment may be one part of a plan that also includes changes to movement and suitable exercises.
Buying a belt without checking the cause of pain can leave the real problem unaddressed. Pregnancy, Birth and Baby’s backache guide explains the available options.
7. A plan for heartburn
If heartburn is bothering you, smaller meals, noticing your own food triggers and staying upright after eating may help. If you need medicine, ask a pharmacist, doctor or midwife to recommend an option suitable for pregnancy and follow the directions.
You do not need to buy an antacid just in case. Talk to your doctor or midwife if heartburn persists, worsens or does not improve with treatment. Contact your maternity unit, doctor or midwife immediately if you have pain under your ribs, because this can be a warning sign of pre-eclampsia. Read more in this Australian heartburn guide.
8. Simple skin care
If your skin feels dry, a moisturiser you tolerate may help it feel more comfortable. There is no need for an expensive pregnancy-branded oil. Check with your doctor or pharmacist before using retinol-containing or medicated skin products during pregnancy.
Do not assume intense itching is just dry skin. Contact your maternity team immediately if you have severe itching, particularly on your palms or soles. See Pregnancy, Birth and Baby’s skin-care advice for more information.
9. Practical help and time to rest
A meal, help with lifting or a quieter afternoon may be more useful than another product. Think about who you can ask for specific help, and what can wait on a difficult day.
As birth gets closer, our practical guide to getting ready for your baby can help you decide which preparations matter most.
Comfort measures have limits
Contact your maternity unit, doctor or midwife immediately for vaginal bleeding, severe abdominal pain, a severe headache or changes to your vision. If your baby’s movements have reduced or changed from their usual pattern, seek assessment straight away rather than waiting until the next day. Healthdirect’s pregnancy warning signs explain when to get help.
This is general information for an Australian audience. Your maternity team can help you choose what is appropriate for you.