Trimester-by-trimester guide to pregnancy essentials

The ultimate pregnancy essentials guide for every trimester

By Mindy Motta

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Pregnancy is a magical journey—equal parts exciting, overwhelming, and downright confusing. Whether you're navigating pregnancy symptoms , diving into prenatal care , or figuring out the best way to handle your changing body, the right products can make a world of difference. Here’s a friendly, supportive, and slightly funny guide to essential pregnancy products for each trimester , complete with some of the best options on Amazon.



First trimester: Navigating the rollercoaster

The first trimester is a whirlwind of emotions—equal parts exciting ("We’re having a baby!") and exhausting ("Why do I feel nauseous ALL the time?!") . Between the waves of nausea, sudden exhaustion, and the realization that your body is working overtime, having the right products can make a world of difference. Here are the first trimester pregnancy essentials that can help you survive and thrive in those early months:


1. Morning sickness relief

Ginger is a natural remedy for nausea, and these chews are easy to keep on hand. Bonus: they double as candy when cravings strike!



These acupressure wristbands may help ease queasiness without medication. They’re like tiny superheroes for your wrists.


Lollipops designed to soothe morning sickness—because who doesn’t deserve candy for feeling this way? These were my go-to for nausea.


2. Prenatal vitamins

Packed with essential nutrients for you and your baby’s development, these are a must.



3. Comfortable bras and underwear

Your growing breasts deserve all the support they can get—these are comfy enough to double as sleep bras.



4. Pregnancy pillow

Even in the first trimester, a supportive pillow can help you sleep better. Plus, you’ll love it even more in later months.



Friendly Tip: Listen to your body and rest as much as you can. This is the trimester where “Netflix and naps” is the best new mom advice you’ll get.



Second trimester: Hello, baby bump!

You’re glowing! Or at least that’s what everyone says. This trimester often feels like the sweet spot of pregnancy—so let’s make the most of it with these second trimester pregnancy essentials.



1. Belly support band

As your bump grows, this band provides gentle support for your belly and back during daily activities. Perfect for reducing strain.


2. Maternity clothes

Buttery-soft, ultra-stretchy fabric and a supportive over-the-belly panel. These leggings are basically the MVP of pregnancy wardrobes.


3. Pregnancy skincare

Hydrating and loved by moms-to-be, this oil helps keep your skin moisturized and may reduce the appearance of stretch marks.


Formulated with Cocoa Butter to help soften and smooth skin and Vitamin E to promote a more even and toned appearance. Contains Collagen and Elastin  to boost stretchability (fewer “tiger stripes,” please!), and Co Enzyme Q10  to support revitalization. Plus,  Pro Vitamin B5  calms and comforts sore or cracked skin.


4. Books & resources

This classic guide (updated in 2024) is like having a nonjudgmental, supportive friend by your side.


Friendly Tip: This is also the trimester to start thinking about prenatal care for labor prep. Consider taking a childbirth class or exploring birthing methods like hypnobirthing.


Third trimester: Countdown to baby

Welcome to the home stretch! By now, you’re probably feeling like a walking watermelon, but you’re so close to meeting your baby. These third trimester pregnancy essentials can make the final months more comfortable.

1. Labor and delivery essentials

These are lifesavers for soothing sore nipples during breastfeeding. Lanolin free, certified organic and safe for your baby.


Can help prepare your perineum for childbirth. Apply to your lower back or perineal area during labor for soothing relief (because, let’s be real, childbirth is intense!)

This soft, supportive, and hypoallergenic nursing pillow provides support for breastfeeding and also doubles as a baby tummy time tool. The removable pillow cover is machine washable.


2. Comfortable footwear

Easy to slip on and off (because bending over is basically a no-go at this point). You deserve shoes that love your feet as much as you love your baby!


3. Pregnancy support for better sleep

Hot flashes? This cooling, breathable, and pressure-relieving topper can help you stay comfortable at night. 

These can improve circulation and reduce swelling in your feet and ankles.

3.Hospital bag essentials

Pre-packed with postpartum essentials like disposable underwear and cooling pads to make your hospital stay smoother.

Final thoughts - your trimester pregnancy essentials

Pregnancy is a wild ride, but having the right tools can make it smoother, more comfortable, and even a little fun. From soothing pregnancy symptoms in the first trimester to embracing pregnancy skincare and prenatal care in the second, and gearing up with pregnancy support essentials in the third, you’ve got this, mama!

Whether you’re a first-time mom or adding to your growing family, let these products help you feel prepared, supported, and celebrated every step of the way. You deserve it!


The content on Awaiting the Stork™ is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with a qualified physician or healthcare professional to address your unique health needs and circumstances. 

Mindy, the author

Mindy Motta, FNP-C

Mindy is a seasoned OB-GYN Nurse Practitioner and co-founder of Awaiting the Stork™. After overcoming her own years-long fertility journey, she now blends clinical expertise with heartfelt empathy to offer new mom advice and evidence-based support for every stage of motherhood. Mindy’s mission is to nurture confidence, connection, and clarity for women stepping into motherhood’s many joys and challenges.