A Doula’s Must-Haves for Pregnancy

As a doula, it’s my job to help people find what’s right for them throughout their experience of pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. That often includes helping sort through the many thousands of products marketed to pregnant women and new parents. For example, do you really need a sheet mask for your belly? A wipe warmer? A Bluetooth bassinet? 

Truth be told, I think the most useful items are often the simplest — great products that bring a bit of comfort and ease to this intense time of life. These are my doula-approved, must-have products to help you feel more comfortable and supported during your pregnancy, including quite a few I used myself during my own pregnancies.

_{Prices are accurate as of December 3, 2024. Subject to change.}

Pharmedoc Pregnancy Pillow

Sleeping quickly becomes uncomfortable during pregnancy, so you’ve got to have a great pregnancy pillow! This is the one I used in my most recent pregnancy, and I can confirm it’s comfy and durable. It’s not too big either — there was plenty of room for me, this pillow, and my husband in our king-sized bed. There are many pillows available that may work better for you, but I prefer using an organic option, since your need for sleep will likely be increased during pregnancy, which means more time exposed to whatever additives are in your bedding. Pharmedoc’s pillow meets the Oeko-Tex standard of textiles tested for harmful substances. 

Belly Bandit Pregnancy Support Band

Back and pelvic aches and pains are unfortunately common in pregnancy, especially if you’re on your second or third kid. The weight of that belly (which includes a baby, amniotic fluid, and a placenta) can be a lot for the whole body, especially your lower back. A belly band can be a huge help, whether it becomes a permanent part of your pregnancy comfort setup or you use it only on days when you really need it. Belly Bandit bands are the best out there. They are stretchy, supportive, and can be used in postpartum for extra support if your abdominal muscles are feeling weak. The space for an insert is such a genius idea — put in an ice or heat pack for extra relief (a useful option for your comfort in labor, too!).

8 Sheep Organics Sleepy Body Lotion

I am a huge fan of 8 Sheep Organics’ sleep lotion, which is infused with magnesium for maximum relaxation. Magnesium, a vital nutrient for our bodies that helps regulate nerve and muscle function, is easily absorbed through the skin. Hence, a lotion! Lots of moms say increasing magnesium intake helps with muscle tension and restless legs at night. If nothing else, applying this lotion before bed can be a lovely act of relaxing self-care. It comes in three scents (lavender, vanilla, and unscented) and if you come to find it’s a vital part of your pregnancy bedtime routine, can be put on a subscription so you don’t have to worry about running out .

Owala 40-Ounce Tumbler

You already know it’s key to stay hydrated when you’re pregnant, but sometimes it’s a chore to drink all you need. I love this triple-layer tumbler from Owala. It comes in a bunch of fun colors and is a little bit more versatile than the Stanley cups we see all over social media. At 40 ounces, it’s the cup you can refill a couple of times during the day to feel confident you’re hitting your ounce goals. Plus, it will come in handy postpartum too — you’ll easily be able to sip one-handed while nap-trapped under a newborn. Just add your favorite electrolytes!

Kindred Bravely Premium Maternity Compression Socks

You might think swollen ankles are a given in late pregnancy, but you’d be wrong! A good pair of compression socks help soothe swelling and boost circulation, keeping your feet and legs more comfy right up until birth. They are also key to wear if you travel during pregnancy, especially on a long flight to reduce the risk of blood clots from long periods of sitting.

Kindred Bravely’s compression socks come in packs of two. They are comfortable (just like the brand’s well-known nursing bras) and I especially love the cushioned sole. Whether you wear these on a flight for your babymoon or just at home while you’re watching TV, your feet and legs will feel happy. If you have questions about wearing compression socks, check with your doctor or midwife.

A is For Advice: The Reassuring Kind Wisdom for Pregnancy

There are thousands of books out there that will tell you exactly what you should and shouldn’t do when you’re pregnant. This is not one of them. Written by a Canadian midwife, this gentle, unbiased book is all about giving you the confidence you need to navigate the life-changing experience of becoming a parent. Author Ilana Stanger-Ross writes with kindness and compassion. When you put this book down, you’ll feel like you just had a chat with a wise and wonderful friend who happens to be an expert in pregnancy and birth.

Storq Signature Maternity Leggings

Need a versatile pair of black leggings that will get you from the first trimester to postpartum and beyond? These leggings are truly the GOAT. The pair that I bought in 2018 during my first pregnancy is still going strong. They are soft, stretchy, and high-waisted enough to provide some support for your belly well after birth, too. I absolutely adore these (and everything else Storq makes as well).

The Educated Birth Labor and Birth Prep Kit Card Deck

No matter your dreams, hopes, plans, or medical needs, you will need to make decisions for your care and that of your baby while giving birth. These cards help you learn your options and decide what’s right for you. With 63 cards covering everything from the role of a labor and delivery nurse to massage for labor, you’ll gain an understanding of the full range of care and choices you might encounter during the birth process. The card deck, created by inclusive reproductive health company The Educated Birth, is a bit like having a childbirth class in your pocket. (That said, I still recommend taking a childbirth class if you can afford it and fit it in before birth — look for a class in your community if you prefer in-person or check out online options.)

Whether you bring the cards with you to the hospital or birth center or simply use them in pregnancy as a learning tool, they’ll be a valuable resource. The deck can also help you have powerful conversations with your partner, family members, and other support people, ensuring everyone in your life feels informed about labor and birth.

Weleda Belly Massage Oil

All that growing makes a belly itchy. This incredibly nourishing oil helps moisturize your belly and prevent that crawling sensation that makes you want to scratch. It smells delicious and is made from plant-based ingredients, like jojoba and sweet almond oil. Some say it helps with stretch marks too, but since those are genetic and linked to your skin’s elasticity, your mileage may vary on that front.

Fuel for Fire Protein Smoothie Pouches

I used these portable little protein packs during both of my pregnancies to give me a needed boost of protein when I was out of the house. As a pregnant person, I needed a lot of protein to stay full and I didn’t always want to eat meat, cheese, beans, or nuts (or, you know, carry them around in my purse every day). Enter the portable protein smoothie! Made with whey, they come in six different tasty flavors (and yes, there is a vegan option). In fact, I still pack these in my doula bag as a quick snack option for when I’m supporting a client in labor.

Featured image credit: MVelishchuk/ Shutterstock