Core Essentials (6 items)

1) Maternity leggings / support pants / dresses

Regular pants are fine early on, but by the second trimester they’re often uncomfortable. Support leggings ease pressure and make moving or sitting easier. In warm weather, flowy maternity dresses are breathable and effortless. Many maternity tops double as pajamas postpartum.

2) Nursing bras (wire-free)

Breast changes happen fast. Wire-free nursing bras feel soft yet supportive and are comfy for sleep. Choosing nursing-friendly styles means you’ll reuse them after birth.

3) Pregnancy pillow (or extra pillows)

Late-pregnancy sleep gets tricky. A pregnancy pillow supports bump, back, and legs for easier side-sleeping—and can double as a nursing support later. On a budget, arrange 2–3 regular pillows strategically.

4) Basic moisturizer or body oil

Itchiness and tightness—especially on the belly—are common. Apply lotion or oil morning and night. Consistency beats brand or price.

5) Prenatal vitamins / folic acid (doctor-advised)

Follow medical guidance and avoid stacking supplements yourself. Solid overview from Mayo Clinic.

6) Pregnancy journal & document folder

Keep checkup papers together and jot down milestones—handy now, memorable later.

Skincare & Personal Care

Keep it gentle and simple; you don’t have to switch everything to “pregnancy-only.” See the NHS and the American Academy of Dermatology for details.

• Skincare: gentle cleanser + moisturizer; avoid retinoids and strong acids.
• Makeup: light looks are fine; skip heavy waterproof products needing harsh removers.
• Hair/body wash: mild formulas; low/no fragrance if smells trigger nausea.

Optional Add-Ons

• Belly support belt: helpful for long walks or back ache.
• Compression socks: for swelling in late pregnancy (APA).
• Yoga mat / resistance bands: if you already do light exercise.
• Healthy snacks: nuts, granola bars, ginger candies.

What You Can Skip

• At-home fetal dopplers — easy to misinterpret; anxiety-inducing.
• Seat-belt adjusters — correct belt positioning is what matters.
• Complex multi-step skincare — one good moisturizer is plenty.
• Anti-radiation maternity clothing —

  Despite marketing claims, there is no scientific evidence that everyday electromagnetic fields (like Wi-Fi, phones, laptops) harm pregnancy. WHO and NHS state that low-level exposure is not dangerous. These garments are often expensive, uncomfortable, and may even worsen phone emissions by blocking signal.
  WHO FAQ · NHS guidance

• Extra “comfort gadgets” — you likely own suitable ones already.