BELLY CARE & STRETCH MARKS
Some say stretch marks are genetic. I partially disagree.
I didn’t rely on “good genetics.” I took no risks. I moisturized constantly… and I started early, long before my belly showed.
What I Used
Months 1–8:
Months 8–9:
I made my own belly balm using:
^ blended this trio into a balm in a food processor.
(I put the balm in these amber glass containers)
+ doubled down with a layer of: La Roche-Posay Lipikar AP+ Triple Repair Moisturizer
I carried it everywhere. No dry or itchy bellies here.
The Secret Weapon: Silk Belly Wrap
A moisturized belly is great…until it gets all over your pajamas.
I found silk stomach wraps that kept moisture against my skin without absorbing it. I rotated two, washed every couple of nights, and slept comfortably without ruining clothes or sheets.
From 34 weeks onward, I started:
Perineal massage with coconut oil (in bath or shower)
*Careful not to overuse the coco, too much trapped moisture can cause a yeast infection!
From 37 weeks onward, I added:
Inserted vaginally with applicator before bed and/or
Taken orally via capsule
This was for softening the cervix and supporting elasticity with the hope of minimizing tearing.
PERINEAL PREP & FINAL WEEKS
SUPPORT & SELF-CARE
Acupuncture: helped circulation and first trimester balance.
Pelvic floor therapy: I did one consult and opted out long-term based on my body awareness and Pilates background. But most of the women in my life, if not all, highly benefitted from this!
Prenatal massage: I started late (34 weeks) and wish I started sooner - especially with someone holistic and experienced in pregnancy.
LOGISTICS, LISTS & PEACE OF MIND
Lists got me through pregnancy. The desire to begin “nesting” started early for me, and I’m grateful it did.
By 30 weeks, nothing major was looming over my head.
The registry was complete.
After our baby shower, everything already had a place. The nursery was done.
One note: don’t rely solely on registry platforms.
Talk to real moms. And remember…the registry is for you, too.
THE REAL TALK
I ate sushi.
I ate cold cuts.
I went on boats.
I worked out.
I lifted things (within reason & capability).
I took a sip of wine in Italy.
I’m not telling you to do any of these things.
I’m encouraging you to trust yourself.
For me, pregnancy didn’t require living like bubble wrap. It required intuition, research, and discernment - and developing a relationship with my own inner guidance.
