Whether your bump is large or small, there are so many
things you can do to keep you and your baby happy and healthy! We asked our mum’s what are some of their favorite tips to care for their baby
bumps and here they are:
Speak to your bump
Sometimes when we speak we feel like no one is
listening to us (especially our little terrible toddlers!). However, the
little person growing inside you can start to hear your voice and your
heartbeat from about 20 weeks.
Studies have also shown that speaking to your baby while in
the womb can help you bond with the baby once it is born and
also cause your baby’s language centre (auditory cortex) to be more
developed from birth. #smartbaby – yes, please!
Support your bump and your back!
With all that weight growing on your front, the shape of
your back can start to change to compensate for the change
in weight distribution. Hormone changes in pregnancy can also
cause the ligaments that support your spine to loosen so it’s important
to ensure your back is supported.
If you are sitting during the day then try a lumbar chair
support to help push your bump up and out. Also, set an alarm on
your computer or phone to remember to get up every 20 minutes for
a good stretch. When you are sleeping at night try using a triangle pillow to
prop up your bump and ensure it is in line with your spine.
Speak up if your bump doesn’t feel right (what’s right
anyway?).
First-time mums are wading through uncharted waters and
it’s only natural that you will feel a little panicked and worried at
times. Don’t be afraid to speak up when something doesn’t feel
right because it’s better you raise your concerns with your GP or midwife
rather than feeling stressed and worried.
Of course, turning to your mother's group is
always handy because if you’re worried about an issue then it’s more than
likely the other mum’s will be worried about the same things too!
Keep your bump moisturized (and don’t scratch!)…
One of the common symptoms of pregnancy is being
extremely itchy, especially the skin that is stretching and growing
with your stomach. Try cutting back on hot baths/ showers and products
which have strong detergents or perfumes as these can cause your skin
to dry out and become irritated.
Also, ensure you are moisturizing up your bump with
a pregnancy-suitable product to help reduce the itchiness and stretch
marks. We love the Mio Tummy Rub Oil or Tummy Rub Butter which are
full of Omega-packed organic oils and designed to increase skin’s strength and
elasticity.