Now that I’m in my last month of pregnancy, I’ve come up with some pregnancy hacks to help make my life easier both now and after the baby comes.
This is my second pregnancy, but it’s been almost 5 years since I’ve been this pregnant and I’ve forgotten so much! Simple things from rolling over at night, to shaving, to packing my hospital bag all have seemed to pile up here in the last trimester.
Bending over.
It’s the worst. Squatting is beneficial in keeping you limber but sometimes… you. just. CAN’T! Enter the grabber. I think I complained enough to push my husband over the edge as this was wrapped under the tree for me this Christmas. It’s as amazing as it sounds. My only wish is that I had one for every floor of my house! I don’t use it as much as I thought I would but it is so helpful for those days when the floor is miles away. No grabber? Use your toes to pick it up or stare at it long enough and someone may take pity on you.
Rolling over in bed.
This one just gets increasingly difficult and painful (sounds like bending over). I found a practical hack for this one here on youtube:
I haven’t actually tried it yet because every time I need to roll over, I just give up and get up to pee. Plus, this seems like it takes way more energy than rolling on my back. Try it and let me know.
A bit more personal. Wiping. I’ve heard flushable wipes are great. Peri bottles are also great if you’ve had a baby before and have one lying around. Or just order some peri bottles on Amazon. They are cheaper than you think and are the best (especially during your period, not just lochia).
Shaving.
This is pretty much not going to get easier. My best hack is a mental hack. If you didn’t shave but wanted to, just remember that your practitioner has seen EVERYTHING and they probably didn’t shave for you either ;). If you are definitely going to attempt this, then maybe invest in an extendable razor handle or a fogless mirror so you can see what you are doing.
Packing your hospital bag.
I love watching YouTube videos of people’s hospital bags. BUT I only watch videos of moms who have had 2, 3, or 4+ kids. Now they know how to really pack a hospital bag! I half listen to these while doing chores, etc, and jot down the things I know I’ll need in my phone. Tada! A custom list with useful practical items. You can also try going throughout your day and seeing exactly what you use or touch and adding the essentials to your list. Worst case scenario, you are sent to the hospital with no time at all to pack. Have a list ready with the items you will need and where exactly to find them. That way not only will your partner be able to find them, but possibly other family members or friends if need be.
Meal planning/freezer meals.
Without actually spending a whole day dedicated to freezer meals, you can slowly build up your stash by doubling your daily dinners and freezing the leftovers. Try freezing some individual portions as well for quick lunches or 3 AM nursing munchies. You can also freeze energy balls or individual servings of lactation cookies. When people bring you food, request some fresh fruits and veggies which will save you a trip to the store and will complement your heavier dishes.
Stocking up on household supplies.
Most moms focus on their diaper stockpile, but don’t forget about all those household essentials that run out quickly too like toilet paper, paper towels, dish and laundry soap, etc! Having these things on hand for at least the first month will be so much more convenient than having to run out. Along the same lines, try to stock up on your favorite snacks. Place these near your bed, couch, and glider for easy access.
Birth announcements/thank you notes.
With my daughter, I designed her birth announcement minus her stats and pictures prior to her birth. I used VistaPrint and saved my design in my account until I was ready to update after the birth and click purchase! You can do the same with thank you notes, etc. This hack may be a bit of a thing of the past, but I really enjoy sending out cards and connecting to people via snail mail, and anything that saves me a step later on is a plus. You can even pre-address and stamp envelopes if you are having an ambitious day.
Labor-aide. Research and stock up on supplies to make your own electrolyte drink cleverly called labor-aide to help keep you hydrated and full of energy during your labor.
Uterus toning/Cervix softening. Again, do you research and ask your practitioner. Many swear by eating dates, drinking red raspberry leaf tea, and taking evening primrose oil to prepare for labor.
Lastly, Pamper Yourself. You’ve heard it a million times but SLEEP. Take many naps, luxuriate in bed with your partner, and marvel at the quiet (if you have other children, marvel in them even if they aren’t quiet!). Prepare yourself for the possibility that you may actually go over your due date. If this is unbearable news, try to plan a treat for each day you go over. Get a pedicure, a massage, a trip to your favorite coffee or sweet shop, etc.
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