The Truth about the 2nd Trimester (and some products I live by)

Photo Credit: Rachel Bires

Let me set the stage for you.

As I sit here writing this post, I’m laying in bed propped up by 4 pillows. I’m in my underwear (which are starting to become a little tight) and a once baggy pajama shirt that is now a little snug around my midsection. I have intense back pain because I had a meeting this morning that went a little longer than planned (I had to sit for a consecutive two hours). Oh, and to top it off, I have a baby that is kicking me constantly because she doesn’t like the position I’m in.

Welcome to the second trimester of pregnancy.

Now, I’d be lying if I said it was all bad, because it’s not. The second trimester has been a welcome change full of more energy, clear skin, strong nails and the ability to finally feel my baby moving around. I just really want to make an effort to show the real side of pregnancy and not the picture perfect curated version you’ll see across social media. What I want people to understand is that pregnancy isn’t easy for anyone, no matter how they make it look from the outside.

Navigating this time in my life has been fun, stressful and confusing. There are so many different opinions, schools of thought and products that it can be overwhelming. I thought I would help cut through the noise a little bit and tell you about 5 things I can’t live without right now.

1. A pregnancy pillow! I didn’t truly understand the value of having a pregnancy pillow until the last few weeks. I went through about 5 of them before I found one I really liked. My current obsession is the Bellifly pillow because it’s unique shape and design is small, and fits your body in all the right places. I also tried a few others including a large U shaped one. I just found it to be too overwhelming and suffocating. Plus, there was no way my Husband could even get close to me with that thing in the way. Pregnancy is hard enough on my body image and consequently, my marriage. Long story short, I don’t need a large pillow pushing him even further away.
2. A Gym Buddy or Workout Trainer. One thing that’s made my pregnancy a little bit easier is the fact that I force myself to stay active a few times a week. For me, I found that having a trainer has been the only way I can get myself motivated enough to move. Can’t afford a trainer? No problem! Find a gym buddy. Either way, it gives you someone to keep you motivated and accountable. I’ve been told that staying active during pregnancy can help make your labor easier. I will keep you posted on that one! Right now I’m training with Tony from Train with Tony Chicago, but I’m also a huge fan of Lateral Fitness in River North and have gone there a few times throughout my pregnancy.
3. A good stretch mark cream! I can’t explain to you how anxious I get when thinking about possibly getting stretch marks. Call me vein if you want, but if it’s avoidable, I want to try and do it. I’m almost 26 weeks and so far so good! My cream of choice is Burt’s Bees Mama Belly Butter. It’s fragrance-free (which I love) and jam packed with lots of Shea Butter, and Vitamin E. I would be lying if I said I just use this on my belly!
4. A Reusable Brita Water Bottle. Did you know you’re supposed to drink a minimum of 64 oz of water a day when pregnant? It is SO important to stay hydrated. I think one of the reasons I generally feel good is because I’m constantly drinking water! With this amazing Brita Water Bottle, I always have some on me and can fill up no matter where I am. My friends actually started calling it my “woobie” because I bring it with me wherever I go.
5. An amazing pair of comfy sweat pants (that also look great). Since becoming pregnant, I’m all about function over fashion. However, since I’m constantly attending events or in photos, I’ve had to find some pieces that keep me feeling comfy but still look cute. These black pants from Pea in the Pod are literally the most comfortable pants I’ve ever worn in my entire life. I’m actually wearing them during the photo shoot in the photo above (shot by the amazing Rachel Bires). You can wear them to the gym, dress them up or wear them lounging around the house. Either way, they are the most incredible pants I’ve ever owned. Even if you aren’t pregnant, order them. They will still fit perfect.

So those are my 2nd trimester must haves! I love hearing what you guys find helpful, so please share them with me below!

Love always,
Erica