Pampering

Congratulations on your pregnancy! The next nine months will see incredible changes taking place as you prepare for the arrival of your bub. It's important to make sure you make some time to pamper yourself as well. Sometimes however, the demands of other children, time or budget constraints can make that almost impossible. So here's a little list of treats you can give yourself each month that won t break the budget, or take up too much of your precious time.

Month 1

This is an exciting time of change for you and your body. But it can also leave you feeling nauseous and tired. Remember to rest as much as you can. Run yourself a warm (not hot) bath and add essential oils like sandalwood and ylang ylang. These are safe to use during pregnancy and are designed to help ease stress.

A gentle massage can also do wonders for your well being at a time when you may feel tired and stressed. It will allow you to simply relax and unwind more easily. Antenatal massages are different from your usual ones, as there are pressure points to be avoided and your baby needs to be considered at well. Here you will find a very helpful guide to pregnancy massage.

Month 2

Skin breakouts are often par for the course during pregnancy. If you already suffered from acne before getting pregnant, it may flare up during this time. Your hormone levels often fluctuate, leading to unexpected breakouts. The good news is this tends to pass after the early months of pregnancy. It's important to maintain a healthy diet, with lots of fresh fruit and vegetables as part of your daily intake. In addition, drinking lots of water is very good for hydrating the skin. To avoid inflaming your skin it can be a good idea to use fragrance free and oil free products where possible.

Month 3

All the hormonal changes can play havoc with your hair. If it's suffering, a deep treatment is often the perfect treat. You can purchase these at your local supermarket. Treating yourself to a cut and colour is also something you can thoroughly enjoy. Knowing that it is safe for you and your bub is important. This hair colouring guide will help you to make informed decisions about what's safe.

Month 4

This is the time to start looking after any potential stretchmarks and slathering your skin. Up to 90% of women will usually get some stretchmarks as a result of pregnancy. They are red ,purplish or silvery streaks that form on your body, usually on your belly and breasts. Again, maintaining regular exercise and a healthy eating plan are helpful with maintaining your skin elasticity. Cocoa Butter creams are often recommended as a way to keep your skin moisturized and helping ease any potential itchiness that may result because of the stretching of your skin. Stretchmarks will usually fade after you have given birth but will not disappear completely.

Month 5

By now it's hard to see your feet, let alone pamper them. A soothing foot bath is a great way to relax. Pop a few drops of lavender in a bowl of warm water and soak your tired aching feet for fifteen minutes. This might be an excellent time to treat yourself to a manicure. Read our manicure guide here.

Month 6

Your regular clothes probably won t fit you easily. It's a good time to look online for a couple of nice pieces of maternity wear that are beautiful and comfortable for you. Check out e-bay for some bargains. It's important to make sure you're wearing a bra that supports your rapidly changing shape as well. This breast care article will ensure you're looking after them properly. If, like most people you're shopping on a budget but want to look and feel good, you will find this information on choosing a maternity bra helpful.

Month 7

Your skin will probably feel a bit tired and stretched at this point. To combat it, try this lovely homemade remedy. Mix a teaspoon of honey with a teaspoon of lemon juice and a teaspoon of vegetable oil. Rub it on skin that feels dry, but pay particular attention to your hands, elbows, heels. Leave it on for ten to fifteen minutes. To remove, just rinse off with warm water. For more simple mummy pampering ideas, click here.

Month 8

This is a good time to commemorate your pregnant belly by making a cast. There are plenty of these kits available at craft stores and online. As well as being a great way to remember your pregnancy, you can also show it to your bub when they're older. We have some amazing activities you can do by yourself or with your family to commemorate your pregnancy.

Month 9

A maternity pillow is a great investment at this point. Not only will it help to support your belly, you can use it afterwards to support you while you're feeding your bub too.

During a busy nine months as you prepare for the arrival of your new baby it is vital to take time out to care for yourself too. These simple steps are a quick and easy way to nurture yourself, at a time when you are adjusting to some significant changes in your body and your life.