It’s true that mothers will stop at nothing to provide the best for their children, no matter how tired they are. But it’s also true that mums often forget that they need a bit of TLC too...
Having a baby – whether they’re still in your belly or already in your arms – is exciting; but it can be stressful as well. For pregnant mums, it’s the physical and emotional changes that their bodies are going through that’s causing the stress. On the other hand, mums with newborns will have to deal with sleepless nights while their bodies heal from the labour process.
Despite all that, mums will still do their best to make sure their babies get what they need, even if it means staying up all night or giving up their favourite food.
But let’s not forget, mums are also a VIP in the parenting process, so we need to take care of ourselves during this time too. Yes mums, your wellbeing is just as important as your baby’s, so taking some time off to practise self-care is a must. After all, what’s good for you is good for your baby too!
Here are some self-care tips for every stage of your pregnancy, including post-pregnancy:
If you’re in your first trimester…
You’ll most likely feel unlike yourself during the first three months of pregnancy: you’re tired all the time, just the scent of certain things make you feel like puking, you’re experiencing breakouts, and you somehow manage to get upset at even the smallest things.
And that’s totally fine. Your body is preparing itself to carry and nurture a little human being, which is not an easy task. It’s making the necessary adjustments (and space) for the baby, and this doesn’t happen overnight. As such, it’s important to let your body rest during the first trimester.
Show yourself some TLC by:
- Booking a staycation. You can use this as a chance to really relax and celebrate your pregnancy with people who matter most to you.
- Switching to a pregnancy-friendly skincare range. Not all products are suitable for pregnant women due to hormonal changes that may affect your skin; and some ingredients could be harmful to the baby when it’s absorbed into the skin. Consider switching to a range of products that are made from natural ingredients, and are mild in strength.
- Starting your baby bump care routine. If you’re worried about having stretch marks, this is the best time to start a care routine. You can try the new Bio-Oil Skincare Oil (Natural) for this – just apply it on your belly and hip areas daily after a shower to prevent the formation of stretch marks. It’s made from 100% natural ingredients and is clinically tested to be effective in reducing the appearance of stretch marks and safe for pregnant and lactating women, so you can incorporate it into your routine without a worry. Treat it as a simple daily massage and a way to bond with your baby (belly)!
If you’re in your second trimester…
Say hello to the best three months of your pregnancy journey! Most women experience the famous “pregnancy glow” during this time. Your skin appears more radiant than before, your appetite is (finally) back, and you don’t feel so lethargic anymore. People may also start noticing your baby bump during this time.
However, backaches and pressure on your lower belly are common during the second trimester. You’ll also find that your toilet trips are more frequent. This is because your baby is growing rapidly now and your lower body is feeling his/her weight.
Show yourself some TLC by:
- Trying prenatal yoga. Not only does this help relieve the aches in your back and abdomen, it actually helps your body build strength to welcome your baby. Prenatal yoga also teaches you breathing techniques, which will be super useful when the day finally comes!
- Booking a prenatal massage. If you’re aching for a massage session, it’s best to book one that is specifically for pregnant women. Prenatal massages avoid deep tissue strokes as this can be harmful for mummy and baby. Instead, the masseuse will focus on soothing strokes to relax your muscles. This type of massage increases blood flow and helps improve your sleep quality.
- Adding more iron and protein to your diet. Since your baby is growing really fast, you need more nutrients for both yourself and your child. Iron and protein are important in supplying your baby with oxygen, as well as developing his/her brain and other tissues. Now that the frequency of morning sickness has decreased, seize this opportunity to consume more iron and protein-filled food.
You can also be more generous when applying Bio-Oil Skincare Oil (Natural) during your baby bump care routine in the second trimester. As your baby bump grows, the skin area around the area will be stretched further too. It’s recommended that you apply the oil twice a day till after birth, to help your skin stretch and recover beautifully.
If you’re in your third trimester…
During these final months, you’ll start to feel very “heavy” as your baby approaches full term. Trying to get a good night’s sleep now seems like a challenge because it often feels like your baby is performing gymnastics during bedtime. Most women also report experiencing reflux and having smaller appetites as they feel their babies pushing against their stomachs.
This may feel like the most tiring phase of your pregnancy journey, but hang in there! You’re almost done, so just take things easy and get ready to welcome your bundle of joy.
Show yourself some TLC by:
- Having a soothing sleep routine. You can combine this with your baby bump care as well with the use of Bio-Oil Skincare Oil (Natural). It contains five types of essential oils, of which three of them – lavender, patchouli, and chamomile – help with improving sleep quality. Lavender and chamomile are known for their soothing floral scent, while patchouli is sweet, woody, and just as calming. On top of helping you sleep better, these essential oils are also good for relaxation, relieving anxiety, and for de-stress purposes.
- Going shopping! Mothers go through a “nesting period” towards the end of their pregnancy, where they start investing a lot of time and energy into decorating the nursery, buying cute baby onesies, and stocking up on other baby supplies. If that helps take your mind off the backaches and other discomforts, we say shop away!
If you’ve just started your maternity leave…
Congratulations! You just welcomed a new family member and must be in need of lots of rest now. Your body is going through the healing process, so you might still experience some aches and sores. This is also the beginning of your sleepless nights as your baby is still not sleeping through the night yet.
It’s important to not be too hard on yourself during this period. Know that your baby needs time to adjust to his/her new surroundings as well, so don’t get too upset if your baby’s feeding and sleeping patterns are not what you hope them to be.
Show yourself some TLC by:
- Asking for help. Taking care of a baby is not easy, especially if you’re a new mum. Be kind to yourself by knowing your limits, and ask for help when you need it. As the saying goes, it takes a village to raise a child – so don’t take it upon yourself to do it all alone.
- Having some alone time. We know this sounds like a luxury, but trust us, it’s a necessity. Every mum needs some time alone to recharge, even if it’s five minutes. Get your partner to help out with the baby for a while, so you can use that precious time to do whatever you like, be it scrolling through Instagram or having a cup of coffee by yourself.
- Continuing your sleep routine. After you’ve put the baby down to sleep, use this time to give yourself a gentle hand and body massage. You can continue using Bio-Oil Skincare Oil (Natural) for this as it’s made from natural oils with moisturising effects, such as jojoba seed, pomegranate seed, and rosehip to name a few.
There’s no doubt that motherhood is a beautiful journey. But as with all journeys, you should take a pit stop from time to time to recharge yourself. As important as your baby is to you, you are important to your baby too. Remember to show yourself some love too, mumma!
Bio-Oil Skincare Oil (Natural), $10.50 for 25ml and $20.50 for 60ml is available exclusively on Shopee. Enjoy $5 Off the Bio-Oil Skincare Oil (Natural) 60ml. Valid for a limited time only.
Bonus: Stand a chance to win a Bio-Oil hamper worth $200!
That’s right, mummas! Bio-Oil is giving away three hampers, each filled with goodies for mummy and baby. They’re looking for three lucky winners, who’ll receive:
- A baby shower set, which comes with a lovely blanket, rattle, bracelet, brush, and bib;
- A Jellycat Bunny soft toy;
- Three 60ml Bio-Oil Skincare Oil (Natural); and
- A 25ml Bio-Oil Skincare Oil (Natural).
Want one? Just answer some questions below:
Bio-Oil Giveaway 2021
Update: The giveaway is now closed. Thanks for participating! We’ll inform the winners ASAP.
This post is in partnership with Bio-Oil