Pregnancy Series Part Six: My Pregnancy Must-Haves

...Or at least "really-want-to-haves-if-at-all-possible". 

A Neti Pot:  When you're pregnant, your sinuses can dry out due to an increase in estrogen.  I experienced this just too much in my first pregnancy- and had sinus headaches all the time, so when I found out I was expecting number two, I headed to the health store for one of these contraptions.  It cost me about $10, but what a difference it made!  It looks weird, it sounds weird, but don't be afraid to try it.  It may be your ticket to nasal relief!  Also, you don't have to buy the prepackaged saline solution at the store, you can make your own by mixing about 1/4 teaspoon baking soda and 1/4 teaspoon non-iodized salt.  Then you add about a cup of warm (not hot) water, and you're all set!

 Chiropractic Care:  Every time I've told someone about getting chiropractic treatment during pregnancy, I sense that they aren't comfortable with the idea of getting "snapped, crackled and popped" with a bun in the oven...but it is oh so wonderful.  I ended up at the chiropractors office the first time around because after the first couple of months, my joints and ligaments began to loosen up in a very noticeable way.  I would be walking down a hallway and my hips would pop-pop-pop as I walked.  At first it was humorous, but after several days, it began to HURT!  I went to see Dr. R. and soon he was able to correct whatever imbalance was taking place in my spine, etc.  I was blessed to be able to go on a weekly basis during my first pregnancy.  It can be expensive, so that's why it's an "if at all possible" must have.  If you can swing it, I highly recommend it if you are having any sort of back or hip pain.  (By the way, during my second pregnancy, chiropractic treatment was not an option due to financial issues, but I was able to alleviate back and hip pain by stretching every day...though not as well as chiropractic would have done. I suppose prenatal yoga would be a good way to relieve some of that as well).  Another good time to turn to chiropractic care during pregnancy is if your baby is breech.  There is a technique they can do that is very effective in causing the baby to turn head-down.  Visit here for more info.

Memory Foam pillow:  I got one of these when I was pregnant with my son, and oh my...what a difference it made!  It was like sleeping on a cloud.  In fact, an abundance of all kinds of pillows really helps you to sleep better.  I started putting them everywhere when I got to be bigger...as I laid on my side under my leg to keep my hips balanced...behind my back for support...in my arms...well...you get the idea.  Lots of strategically placed pillows are a must!

Fish Oil:  Fish oil does many great things for the pregnant body (at least in my opinion- talk to your midwife or doctor before taking anything).  It was very good for my moods, and also for aches and pains in my body.  Not to mention the brain benefits for mom and baby.  These "feel good" properties are something I wouldn't normally get through my diet as I really don't eat fish very often.  It was definitely beneficial to me in my last trimesters when I had difficulty getting comfortable and/or moving around in bed.

What has your experience been?  Have you found relief with any of my "must-haves"?  What are some other tips/tricks that have worked for you?