Disclaimer: I am currently writing this at 17 weeks pregnant. I will definitely share/update as needed! 

Well, well, well – here I am in a moment I never quite anticipated. If there’s one thing I can guarantee, it’s that I certainly didn’t see this coming! 😄 While the idea of being pregnant has always been a part of my life’s vision, the timing couldn’t be more surprising. For a deeper dive into the story, feel free to check out my Instagram Baby Highlight.

Now, let’s talk about the unfiltered truth: those first three months were an absolute rollercoaster. No sugar-coating here, because nobody really gave me the heads-up on just how challenging this phase could be. Did I somehow tune out my friends’ gripes when they were in my shoes? Or do they just handle it like pros, unlike my slightly more whiny self? Let’s lean towards the latter.

But around week 14/15, I felt like I was emerging from the trenches. The relentless waves of nausea were finally easing up, and as the collective wisdom had promised, a glimmer of energy was making its way back into my life. I’d say I was operating at about 75%, a significant improvement even if not quite at full capacity.

And who could have predicted that my entire daily routine and the life I had grown accustomed to would be sent into a topsy-turvy whirlwind?

I’ve had a few inquiries about my day-to-day approach during this transformative period, prompting me to compile everything into a convenient list while providing some context along the way. So, here’s a sneak peek into what’s been keeping me going:

Supplements 

• Peppermint Essential Oil – I brought this with me everywhere in the first trimester I would just smell it and wear it as perfume… lol it helped with the nausea
• Organic Lozenges –
• Thorne Prenatal Vitamin – I know everyone loves Ritual but I found it to be so ICK. Made me vomit and smelled funky. The Thorne goes down easy and I take it every night before bed. 
• Thorne B6 – I started taking the B6 because my doctor told me it would help with the nausea. It also is crucial for the healthy function of the brain and nervous system. 
• Thorne Magnesium – I was taking a certain magnesium but found out it had L-theanine in it. Didn’t know you *shouldn’t* have that while pregnant or breastfeeding. I like this one and take it before bed too. 
• Vitamin C – I used this before pregnancy and have continued to love and use it. Who knew pregnant women’s immune systems are more at risk? 
• Electrolytes – Daily. Daily. Daily. I love this brand because of the less sugar. The Citrus Salt is my fav. 
• Water Bottle – can’t live without 
• Genexa Antacid – the cleanest heartburn aid I have found and love! 

Sleep 

• Pregnancy Pillow – I am a stomach sleeper and guess what during pregnancy that doesn’t really work… This pillow has been a game-changer for me since week 8! I use it even for just lounging in bed – it has also helped with my sciatica. 
• Unisom – is controversial but it works for me and my doctor said I can take it! 
• Epsom Salt Bath – I use this every single night. It’s helping my sciatica and they say it’s good for the skin/stretch marks. 

Clothing 

• Leggings – I love these and these! I sized up. 
• T-Shirt – I purchased this one x5. It also comes in long sleeve.
• Hokas – The best support even when not pregnant. If you have sciatica its important to wear supportive sneakers allllll the time.
• Bras – This wireless bra is great for daily wear (I sized up) and this one for more casual wear. 
• Spanx – I have a few weddings and will be wearing these under my dresses.
• Air Essentials – You know this is my go to and its great for lounging during this time. I sized up. 
• Compression Socks – My varicose veins have been out of control – these have helped when they throb and to wear during a flight!
• Swimsuit – I am currently wearing this at 17 weeks – sized up 2 sizes. I actually feel comfortable in this swimsuit and I think there is room to “grow”. I think once my belly is really there I will just wear a two-piece. 
• Nap Dress – a dress that will grow with you the entire pregnancy. This will be my uniform headig into Fall! Just throw a turtleneck underneath.

Skincare 

• Elta MD Foaming Cleanser– I used this prepregancy and was happy to hear it was pregnacy safe!
• Obagi Rebalance – My skin has been HORRIBLE during this time. I firmly belive this is the one product that has turned things around. Less is more! This would be my #1 pick!
• Facial Oil – I got this while I was in California and I lost my moisturizer. The lady at Blue Mercury reccomended this for a natural choice.
• TNS – I was also very happy to wear this was pregnancy safe. This is liquid gold and I use sparingly as a serum before I apply anything else.
• Hydrate – The last step of my routine. The best moisturizer hands down!

Bodycare 

• OSEA – this oil has been a favorite of mine for year as always you can use my discount code MEGANANN10. Not just for the belly. A friend told me don’t forget to oil you boobs and thighs too! 
• Apricot Oil – I would say this is a less expensive version of OSEA. 
• Hanni Water Balm – UGHHH cult fav of mine! I use this during the day instead of oil! Doesn’t get on your clothes or transfer onto anything. I also have a discount code: MEGANANN15
• Hanni Splash Salve – alsooo a cult fav of mine. I use this in the shower all over. It is activated by water and you pat dry! 

Cravings and other things I’ve liked

• Gummy Bears – these are my favorite! Never have I ever wanted these juicy things sooooo much in my entire life!
• Milk – and lots of it 
• Fried Chicken – pretty much what i survived on during the first trimester
• Lots of ice cream but that’s pretty standard. cc: @Baskin Robbins pleaseeeeee bring back Mom’s Makin’ Cookies!!!!!!!
• Croissants – first trimester savior
• Prenatal Massage from Carly Rose Massage Therapy – she will come to your house! Even better!
• Mer Aqua Head Spa is always a treat!
• ICE cold water – typically i prefer at room temp (odd I know) but lately i’ve been craving it ice cold!