Pregnancy is a time of intense physical and emotional changes, but of course the rest of the world doesn't stop when you're expecting. There's work to show up for, meals to cook, and errands to do -- as well as a new baby to get ready for!
These tips from BabyCenter moms and moms-to-be will make your life easier during pregnancy. We hope they'll reduce stress, save you time and money, and help you stay in touch with the joy of being pregnant.
Shower at night. "Taking showers in the evening and sleeping an extra 45 minutes in the morning has helped a lot. You wouldn't think this would make much of a difference, but I really feel like I get enough sleep this way." -- Amber
Do errands at lunch. "I work full time and do a lot of errands at lunch before I get too tired. When I get home I have less to do and can relax or spend time with my toddler." -- Jodean
Exercise for energy. "A little bit of exercise increases my energy more than any nap I've ever taken." -- Jennifer
Keep good communication with your boss. "I check in often with my manager. I work on my feet, and as the months pass, I've slowed down a lot. Taking small breaks helps a lot. She understands this, and doesn't seem to mind." -- Jennie
Nap during lunchtime. "I used lunch breaks at work to cat nap. Fortunately my office had a quiet lounge with a couch where I would curl up and snooze -- even 20 minutes worked wonders. Co-workers didn't mind leaving me alone. In fact, it became the pregnancy couch for a string of pregnant women." -- Kaitlin
Learn your workplace rights. "It helps to know your rights. I had horrible, debilitating morning sickness with both my pregnancies and was so relieved to learn I could take disability leave for the worst stretches and return to work for the last trimester." -- Zizi
Be good to yourself. "Pamper yourself with fresh nail polish, lovely bath oils, or even a professional facial. These can go a long way in nurturing your spirit." -- Sara
Pamper your belly. "Rub natural massage oil on your tummy every day after your shower. It might be an old wives' tale that this prevents stretch marks, but it sure feels nice and luxurious." -- Bobbie
Invest in a good body pillow. "I slept much better in the last trimester after I bought a body pillow. I could curl up on my side, letting the pillow support my back. It also helped to have a stack of pillows for propping myself up when I got night heartburn." -- Midge
Get help with the nursery. "We invited friends over to help us set up the nursery. We got pizza and beer (and soda for me) and made a party out of it. They helped paint and assemble furniture -- and even had a good time doing it!" -- Mary
Borrow maternity clothes. "Take all the used pregnancy clothes friends offer. It's silly to spend a ton of money on clothes you won't wear for long. Sharing clothes is a nice introduction to the camaraderie of motherhood." -- Greta
Have home picnics. "At the beginning of my third trimester, I started stocking up on paper plates, cups, and disposable cutlery. On days when I'm wiped out, we have 'picnics' at the dining room table. This saves time and energy that would normally be spent at the sink or emptying the dishwasher. This will be useful when the baby comes, too." -- Angela
Shop for pre-prepared foods. "Frozen entrees and food from the deli department at your local supermarket are wonderful. You can have a quick, relatively healthy meal with minimal clean up. Pre-made salads and roasted chickens are especially convenient." -- Heidi
Take notes. "During my first pregnancy, I felt like the biggest idiot on earth due to what I called 'pregnancy dementia.' I learned to carry a note pad with me at all times to write down even the smallest things. It really did help." -- Paige
Share the ups and downs. "Get together with other expectant moms or people with young kids -- it's incredible how sharing the ups and downs of pregnancy and new parenthood can keep your sanity intact." -- Allison
Let it out. "Don't be afraid to show the wacky side of pregnancy emotions. A good cry or belly laugh does the soul good." -- Marla
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