Your body has entered a new era.
Pregnancy comes with an extraordinary amount of information.
What to eat. What not to eat. What to buy. What your baby needs. What week you're in. What's happening with their development.
But somewhere amongst all of that, there can be one person who gets a little forgotten:
You.
Because while your baby is growing, your body is changing too.
Your boobs feel different. Your shape is changing. Your skin can behave differently. Your energy can shift. Things that used to feel comfortable might suddenly feel the complete opposite.
And nobody quite prepares you for all the little things.
So we created The Mutha Magazine — a guide for the woman behind the bump.
It's about your body, your boobs, your underwear, nourishment, movement and, most importantly, looking after the woman doing all the changing.
What happens to your body during pregnancy?
Your body goes through a huge number of changes during pregnancy.
Your growing bump is the most obvious one, but it certainly isn't the only change you'll notice.
Your breasts change in size and sensitivity. Your body shape changes completely (not just a bump). Your skin and hair feel different. Your energy levels change throughout pregnancy, and a lot of things can suddenly feel unfamiliar.
There isn't one universal pregnancy experience either.
Some changes are gradual. Some seem to happen overnight. And some might surprise you completely.
Let's talk boobs
Your breasts can start changing surprisingly early in pregnancy.
You may notice increased sensitivity, tenderness, changes in size or shape, or changes to your nipples and areolae.
And as your breasts change, the bra you were perfectly happy wearing six months ago might suddenly become the thing you absolutely cannot stand.
A pregnancy bra doesn't have to mean something enormous, beige and deeply unexciting. Look for fabrics that feel comfortable against your skin, enough stretch to accommodate change and a shape that works with your body rather than fighting it.
Your boobs have entered a new era too.
Your underwear has entered the chat
There comes a point when your usual underwear just doesn't feel like its fitting like it did.
Waistbands dig. Fabrics feel restrictive. Everything seems to sit in the wrong place.
And while maternity underwear can be useful, you don't necessarily need something complicated. The key is finding underwear that accommodates your changing shape and feels comfortable against your skin.
Soft, stretchy fabrics can make a difference and seamless styles can reduce irritation.
Most importantly, your underwear should work with your changing body.
Looking after yourself during pregnancy
Self-care during pregnancy doesn't mean pampering as such, but being aware of what you need.
Sometimes it means eating something nourishing, getting some fresh air, a little work out or doing absolutely nothing.
Pregnancy can be physically and emotionally demanding, so finding small ways to look after yourself matters.
What about nourishment and supplements?
Pregnancy is a time when your nutritional needs change, which is why it's worth understanding what your body needs.
There are specific nutrients that are commonly discussed during pregnancy, including folic acid and vitamin D, but individual circumstances vary.
Your midwife, doctor or other qualified healthcare professional is the right person to speak to about your own nutritional needs and any supplements you should take.
The bigger picture matters too.
Food. Hydration. Rest. Movement. And listening to what your body is asking for.
Movement when your body is changing
Your relationship with movement can change during pregnancy too.
What felt easy before pregnancy might suddenly feel very different. That's completely normal.
For many women, staying active during pregnancy can be part of feeling good physically and mentally, but what is appropriate depends on your individual circumstances and how your pregnancy is progressing.
A walk. A swim. Pregnancy-friendly strength work. Gentle mobility. Whatever feels right for you.
Want the full Mutha Magazine?
We've packed even more into the full guide, created for the woman behind the bump.
Boobs. Body changes. Nourishment. Movement. Underwear. Self-care. And all the little things nobody thinks to tell you.
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