Bump Beauty: How to feel and look good during your pregnancy

Your clothes are feeling tighter, your breasts are more sensitive, and you’re doom-scrolling at 3am following, what feels like, your 33rd trip to the bathroom… Your pregnancy is starting to feel more and more real.

Pregnancy can be challenging at times but the perks outweigh the moments of discomfort, especially if you put extra effort into looking and feeling your best. Here are a few easy ways to get you to that point.

Update your wardrobe

Nothing brings more comfort to a pregnant body than being dressed in clothes designed for the extra curves and growing bump. Maternity clothes are worth the investment. You may even find yourself wearing your maternity clothes after the baby has been born (and for months afterwards!). 

Pregnancy staples include pregnancy briefs, breastfeeding bras, and clothes that snugly showoff your baby bump or hide the extra curves – whatever your prefer. You might also want to step into more comfortable shoes that have extra cushioning as your feet often feel the extra weight faster than other parts of your body.

A pair of compression socks are also an essential, especially if you’re struggling with swollen legs or feet, or if your third trimester is in summer.

Stay active

Moving around helps you stay healthy and happy, despite your body being the biggest it had ever been.

There’s a reason for this. Like in any other stage of life, exercise helps to maintain a healthy weight during pregnancy, promote a healthy blood flow and release feel-good hormones for a happier mood. It is, however, important to discuss any new and existing exercises routines with your gynaecologist to ensure it’s safe for you and baby.

Enjoy your luscious locks

Now’s the time to let your hair shine – naturally –  so if all you want to do is wash and go, do that. Simply adding a chic hair accessory will play up your look, but if you’re looking to maximise on your mane, spend time finding the products, tools and techniques work best for your length and hair type. You might need the good-hair-day hacks if you’re affected by postpartum hair loss. (Even if you are, don’t stress about it! There are expert ways to help the hair grow back faster, and handy hacks that can help hide any sparse spots.) Remember to clear all new products with your doctor as certain ingredients can affect your growing baby.

Pamper your skin

It’s more than likely that your skin will change during – and throughout – your pregnancy, and even after you’ve given birth. It’s also likely that any new issues will be noticeable and, therefore, easy enough to address. If your skin is feeling more sensitive or tighter, opt for fragrance-free formulas; if it’s dry or itchy, opt for products that contain hyaluronic acid or oatmeal, respectively. Take a few extra minutes each morning and night to properly hydrate your skin from head to toe, and gently massage your body as you go – your body is tired!

It’s worth noting that certain ingredients can make their way into your bloodstream, so it’s important that you chat to your gynaecologist or a dermatologist before using any new products.

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