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month 5

Scan Scares – diary of a mum to be

month 5

pregnancy scan

Ever wondered how other mums feel when they find out they’re expecting? What thoughts cross their minds, how they feel as their baby grows inside them and how they cope as this journey plays out?  We’ve decided to follow Carly, a first time mum, who’s here to tell us her inner most thoughts, feelings and completely crazy cravings, because every story is different, unpredictable, terrifying and wonderful!

17 weeks

Just back from midwife – quite a lot of information to process so I’ll document it here:

Blood type – I have an apparently a quite rare Rhesus O Negative blood type, so I have been booked in for what they call an Anti D shot at 28 weeks . This adds antigens to my blood that aren’t there naturally. The problem with being RhO- is that any type of positive blood mixing with mine would be like drinking poison. My immune system would attack it and a large amount of it such as during a transfusion would make me very ill.

Not great but even worse is that if the baby has a positive blood type from his or her daddy (A, B, O or AB+ blood types so it’s likely) and our bloods accidentally mix, it wouldn’t be great for them. The Anti D shot works to combat all of that but I’ll need a second shot after delivery as well.

Low risk for Downs syndrome – she said the diagnostic tests confirmed this was good, but doesn’t have my final results back so she’s sending them by post. She said though they don’t send low risk letters to expectant parents unless they’re sure of the results (as sure as they can be), so I’m reassured.

Sensitive cervix – I have one. I’ve had a couple of little bleeds with no pain and no major blood loss, so she thinks my cervix is sensitive. I have to take it easy from now on – no mountain climbing (oh well….)

Lastly but not least, I heard baby’s heartbeat on her hospital Doppler and it IS the same sound and BPM as I’ve been hearing on my home one. Phew!

18 weeks

This past week has been really tiring at work with lots to do and not enough time to do them in, so as a consequence I’ve been falling asleep more in the evenings but then not sleeping properly come bed time. Frustrating and it means at work I feel like a zombie. My friend popped round at the weekend with a pregnancy support pillow but one that can also be used past birth for nursing and then for baby to sit in – that’s now in the nursery alongside our ever-growing collection of baby bits.

I’m waiting to start feeling kicks now – apparently first time mums don’t feel them usually until about 20 weeks but I’m hopeful to feel them before. I have felt some twinges where I think baby’s feet would be but nothing like the “fluttering” sensations that apparently herald those first kicks. I’ll keep you posted…

19 weeks

It’s been a long week. The house is a mess and I’m feeling stressed about it all. I know it’s ridiculous but I’m really struggling with the hoovering at the moment. Our Dyson is quite heavy and lugging it up and down the stairs really hurts my hips – the other day they were so bad I resorted to sitting on the kitchen floor and using the nozzle to hoover everything – I just didn’t feel I could stand any longer! Looks like my dearest husband will be taking that particular chore over from now on…oh well!

20 week scan next week – I’m so excited!!

20 weeks

So we had our 20 week baby scan this week  and I’m pleased to say everything looks OK as far as they can tell at this stage. Everything has been noted as “normal” and we got a nice view of baby – at least everything looks a little less “alien” like, and SHE wasn’t lying like a frog this time.

Yep, that’s right. Sprog is a baby girl, or so they think. Unfortunately she was being stubborn and lying head down, hands in front of her face, and with legs together and ankles crossed, so not the most compliant position! Fast asleep as well so no amount of nudging would shift her! The Sonographer said she was 70-80% sure she couldn’t see any boy bits on any view of the scan, but of course they could still be tucked away.

I’m not the most patient of people so I’ve booked a 3D gender scan for 2 weeks time. I think it be better to get a more conclusive answer to the gender question.

In other exciting news I think I felt my first proper kick on Tuesday! I’ve been expecting to feel them lower down but as baby is laying head down with feet in the air, I’ve probably been ignoring any fluttering feelings higher up where her feet are. Definitely felt a new movement earlier, I think it was her letting me know she was up…(even thought it was 5pm!)

21 weeks

Wow, the weeks are flying by now – 21 weeks and I’ve definitely started showing more in the past week. It’s true when people say you just “pop out” – you really do! One day your jeans fit – the next, no chance.

Had a bit of a “crisis” over the weekend – not really a crisis but had a bigger bleed than any before Saturday evening. Didn’t panic because I know the midwife said about having a sensitive cervix but then I read up online Sunday and read that those with negative blood need Anti D shots if they have any bleeds during pregnancy at all, not just the scheduled one at 28 weeks. Monday I called the midwife and it turned out to be a locum who confirmed this to me so I had to call the Labour ward and go in to have a shot. Whilst I was there they gave me my first internal (of many to come I assume) and made sure everything was fine (which it is – *phew*) but took me back a bit – I wasn’t expecting it.

Apart from that though, all is well and just counting down the days until the 3D Gender scan when we can hopefully find out whether baby is a girl or boy,

 

Anyway, till next time, Carly x

 

Secret diary month 3

Diary of a mum-to-be: Scans, soda’s and a severe lack of Steak

Ever wondered how other mums feel when they find out they’re expecting? What thoughts cross their minds, how they feel as their baby grows inside them and how they cope as this journey plays out?  We’ve decided to follow Carly, a first time mum, who’s here to tell us her inner most thoughts, feelings and completely crazy cravings, because every story is different, unpredictable, terrifying and wonderful!

 

8 weeks

The sickness and hunger have eased back but boy oh boy, the sore boobs have not. They don’t seem to have grown much but wow, are they tender! I still feel hungrier than normal but find I just can’t eat a normal sized dinner? I don’t really like snacking late at night but I don’t really have much choice at the moment.

We’re going out for a meal tonight to celebrate my dad’s birthday but rather annoyingly we’re going to an amazing Japanese place and, as I’m sure you know the joys of pregnancy have very strict food limitations.

I’ve also really noticed how much more tired I am at the moment too. I’ve been really good about limiting caffeine, but last night I gave in and had a small glass of coke – I just felt so drained and really needed the energy. Back on the decaf tea today though!

9 weeks

I ended up having chicken gyoza at the restaurant but all I could see was the beautiful sushi on everyone else’s plates – won’t be going there again anytime soon! No-one seemed to suspect anything when I ordered lime and sodas all night either, which was handy as it’s still too early to share the news. Can’t believe it’s so close to the first scan. It’s even closer to the first consultant obstetrician appointment, although I’ve been reading conflicting accounts online on what they’ll actually do in that appointment? I’m hopeful to be able to hear the heartbeat, but I know (from self-googling) that it’s not likely until at least 14 weeks.

I’ve been feeling less tired this week in the evenings, and able to stay awake past 9. I’m hoping this will last… My appetite has also started to shrink a bit – which I think is a good thing. I know I’m having a baby but the scales have really shot up!

10 weeks

Eugh, I caught the dreaded lurgy this week. It was awful. Of course I couldn’t take anything for it. I’m now feeling a bit better but still on the hot honey and lemon –  it’s the closest pregnancy friendly remedy I can find to Lemsip!

I’m looking forward to the obstetrician appointment on Monday, though I’ve started to get a little nervous. I want to speak to them about my racing heartbeat, as mine was nearly 120 bpm last night whilst resting. Is that normal? It seems to get really high out of the blue then go back to a more normal 80-90 after an hour or so. I suffer from a thyroid condition so I’m not sure if it’s related to that or the extra work my body is doing at the moment. I’m never quite sure at the moment what is baby-related and what’s not.

11 weeks

So I’ve just had my consultant obstetrician appointment (after a very long wait at the maternity unit, but we won’t go into that)! I spoke to her about my concerns with my heart rate and she said to monitor for the next 10 weeks and I’m still concerned, they’ll do further tests and to also mention it to my endocrinologist. Scary stuff.

My Obstetrician also said she will arrange for 2 extra growth scans of the baby between 24-36 weeks which will be good. She took my blood pressure and weight (no comment) and everything is fine, so it the first baby-scan is all set! Rather oddly though, I am now SUPER nervous because, up until then, nobody except me has confirmed I even have a foetus growing in there. My husband thinks I’m mad.  I’m also excited to see our little baby for the first time on the big screen, even if it does look like a little blob! J

12 weeks

I had my scan today and I’m pleased to say that everything is OK/ the baby was wriggling around like a tadpole. SUCH a relief to see that picture on the screen; they were running late and my bladder was so full, I thought I was going to burst when she did eventually press on it with the probe. I was so nervous this morning I was actually sick, (I’m putting that down to nerves rather than pregnancy). Anyway it was amazing seeing that little heartbeat and limbs twitching around! They’ve measured me at 2 days further along that I thought.

The one thing that was a bit frustrating is that baby was laying stubbornly face down so we couldn’t get great pictures and more importantly, the technician couldn’t get the nuchal measurement. Instead of the usual NT test, I now have to have the older style Quad test (after 15 weeks) that doesn’t factor in nuchal measurement.

I think I’m starting to show now, (although to anyone else I probably just look like I’m bloated) so that’s really exciting. Wonder how many strangers will start patting my tummy uninvited..! Not long now till we will know if it’s a boy or a girl! Anyway, fingers crossed all is well with my baby, speak soon. x

hospital bag essentials

Hospital bag essentials

hospital bag essentials

Giving birth is the single most empowering and amazing thing your body will ever do. Preparing for the birth, both psychologically and physically (we’re big fans of hypnobirthing at Amoralia HQ) will help you to feel in control and confident, and will ease the journey into motherhood. Preparing your hospital bag can be an exciting moment (OMG, it’s really happening!), so here are our top hospital bag essentials for you (check out The Bump for the bits to bring for baby).

A nightdress is great for the early hours after you’ve given birth. You’re going to be feeling extremely tender down there, so it’s best to stay clear from pyjama bottoms. Our Seamless Nursing nightie and Basic Nursing Nightie both offer easy nursing access, are a dark (but flattering) colour and both made from super-soft fabrics. Team with luxe slippers and the matching robe to pad around the ward in style. Our Amoralia Mandy Cardi ties under the bust so won’t aggravate any tender areas. We find disposable breast pads such as these Lansinoh ones, are the best for the early days as they’re thin and very absorbent. You can always switch to re-usable once you get the hang of breastfeeding later at home.

Believe it or not, we don’t advise you spend too much money on knickers. For the first few days, it’s best to get something that you’re happy to chuck out afterwards. Full coverage and a high waist is best, as it will help you feel more secure and won’t rub any scars if you had a cesarean.

Stock up on sweets, glucose tablets and sports drinks – even if you don’t need it, chance are your OH will!

Maternity wards can be noisy and bright, and you’re going to be very tired (sorry for the reality check!). Catching up on sleep whenever possible is so important, so bring ear plugs and an eye mask. Some mums find they get dry lips because of the warm environment of maternity wards and stress of birth, so remember to take along a lip balm. Your nipples are also going to be very sore, so choose a nipple cream that is free of preservatives is breastfeeding friendly. Lansinoh offer a great nipple cream that has no taste or perfume, so doesnt need to be removed before nursing.

When you’re finally ready to leave the hospital don’t go for a pair of jeans. You’re still going to be very sore and aching all over, so choose some bottoms that won’t dig into your bump when you’re sitting down for the journey home. Our PJ leggings are catered to sit snuggly on a new-mum-tums and are super soft. Choose a nursing bra without a flexi-wire, to protect delicate breast tissue against mastitis – We love our Sleep Nursing bra, as it has no clasps and offers easy lift up nursing access. Team with our super comfortable Nursing Tunic as choosing something dark will be less forgiving for breastmilk stains. Take a scarf or pashmina to snuggle with in the car and stick to slip-on shoes, so you can kick them off as soon as you get in. Finally, have a rest at home with the best part of it all, your brand new baby.

 

1: Amoralia Seamless Nursing Nightie, £49

2: Amoralia Nursing Nightie, £40 and Amoralia Mandy Cardi. £35

3: Sleep Nursing bra £25

4: Amoralia Nursing Tunic, £35  and PJ leggings £35

5: Amazon Grey Pashmina, £25

6: Amoralia Second Skin Short, £15

7: Vans Slip on Trainers, £61

 

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Activities during pregnancy – what is allowed?

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We live in a very image and health conscious society and the thought of being pregnant and not being able to work out might cause some women to break out in a sweat (but of the cold variety!)

However, there are some activities that are completely safe to do whilst pregnant, and some that should be avoided. We have highlighted three different activities in our latest blog.

As always, it is best to speak to your GP or midwife before starting something new, or if you have any concerns.

Walking

If you consider yourself to be a walker, you should be pretty safe to carry on walking during your pregnancy. In fact, walking is a great activity to do whilst pregnant as it encourages blood circulation around your body, raises your heartbeat slightly and also helps to get you some fresh air, which is always welcome!

However, pregnancy does cause strain to your back and ankles. Make sure that you wear supportive trainers or walking boots (not wellies – not supportive enough!) and that your ankles are protected whilst you are walking. It is advisable to stay away from walking up and down hilly areas or difficult and complex walking routes after 20 weeks.

Don’t forget the supportive bra when you are out walking – if your breasts are left in an unsupportive bra, you’ll probably get pretty sore, as well as possible back ache. Our Second Skin maternity bra is perfect for a low intensity walk, keeping you secure and comfortable at the same time!

Running

Generally speaking, it is not a good idea to run after the 20th week of pregnancy. This is due to the strain and stress that running puts on a number of the joints (as well as your breasts) and the possible negative impact that it may have on your pelvic floor muscles. And no one wants that!

If you are an experienced runner, we would really recommend seeking out professional advice before going any further down the running track!

Swimming

There are many benefits to swimming during pregnancy – the water supports your growing bump and body and the exercise is once again great for your circulation, with water stimulating your blood vessels, helping to alleviate swelling. Swimming also provides a great way to gain or maintain abdominal tone, which is always a bonus!

Swimming should be done at a leisurely pace when pregnant, so that you are not putting too much stress or strain on your muscles and your body – after all it should also be enjoyable. There are a number of antenatal water classes that you can book into at your local swimming pool; these offer exercise with a trained instructor as well as the chance to meet some new people! Also, it gives you the chance to get some wear out of this beauty – the Angelica tankini!

dogs

Pets and pregnancy – is it a walk in the park?

dogs

Pets hold a special place in our hearts in the UK – one in 3 homes has a furry lodger. Pregnancy can change the dynamic though so you’ll want to be prepared.

Our most common house pets are cats and dogs, loved for their fluffy cuddliness. However, with the hormonal changes pregnancy brings you may find that your animals are less than enthusiastic about the nightly cuddle on the sofa! Most of the time, cats and dogs become more withdrawn and may choose to spend less time with you than before. You might find that your sofa buddy has found a comfortable home elsewhere in the evenings.

Safety

During pregnancy, it is important that pregnant mothers avoid contact with any faeces – especially cat waste (it carries a very dangerous disease called toxoplasmosis.) This can affect your unborn baby’s developing eyes and brain, and can cause severe damage.

It is imperative that whilst you are pregnant, you avoid pet waste, so someone else clears up the cat litter tray – it really isn’t worth the risk to your unborn child. Finally, the excuse you’ve been looking for!

Make sure that your animal’s vaccinations are up to date and that they are flea and worm treated regularly – before, during and after pregnancy.

Your dog’s habits might need adjusting too. It might be best to avoid rough play sessions and jumping up. Dogs are very strong and they could quite easily know an adult over (unintentionally of course.) A fall could be very painful and dangerous when pregnant.

Dogs

You most likely already have some form of a routine but as your pregnancy progresses you could start to make this a bit more firm. Going for walks at a similar time each day and being fed in a routine can help them feel more secure and less likely to lash out.

Look at an indoor kennel or safe place for your dog to go to when they are feeling a little stressed. The noise that accompanies a new baby, as well as the feeling of their “territory” being invaded by someone else can be big stress factors for them.

Make sure you set some time aside for them. Once your baby is born, you’ll be preoccupied and your dog won’t be get all of your attention! Once baby is in bed for the evening, you could dedicate some time to playing with them, even if you are feeling tired. It is really important to make the effort – they were your baby first, after all. The time spent playing will strengthen your bond and help your dog to cope with the big change to their home life!

Cats

With cats, it is slightly different. Whilst it’s a good idea to implement routines (regular feeding times in the morning and evening, for example) cats are a little more independent. If you haven’t already, you could fit a cat flap so that your cat can safely escape when the noise gets too much!

If your cat roams round the house, it would be well worth considering closing the nursery door. This will help them to get used to staying out of certain rooms.

As with dogs, spend some time playing with your cat so they don’t feel too left out – you can get some amazing climbing frames with high platforms that they can sit on and feel safe, whilst being able to observe what is going on around him.

 

The main thing to remember is that your pets had the house and your attention first! If you work hard to make them feel at ease and still welcome, there’s no reason your baby & pets won’t love each other to bits.

Image credit: http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/6/61/FEMA_-_38417_-_Dogs_at_a_shelter_for_displaced_pets_in_Texas.jpg

Pregnancy_test_result

Month 1 of Pregnancy – What to expect

Pregnancy_test_result

Our experiences during pregnancy vary hugely right from the start. Incredibly, some women somehow sense they are pregnant within a few days of conception. Then there are others who have carried their babies full term without ever realising that their symptoms (if any) were pregnancy related.

Even in the first month of pregnancy your body is undergoing a number of significant changes:

  • We all know about missing periods – ranging from mild panic to extreme excitement, you’ll probably experience a range of emotions. Doctors use the date from the start of your last period to calculate your due date so it’s a good idea to keep track.
  • If you are constantly yawning it’s pretty normal. Feeling shattered (even when you wake up) in the first month is very common and is often overlooked in favour of more obvious signs. With increased hormone levels and the baby growing at its fastest rate in this early stage, its little wonder that some of us feel exhausted.
Did you know? In the first 4 weeks of pregnancy alone, the sex of your baby has already been determined. By week 4 the cells have developed enough to be officially classed as an embryo and the main organs including the heart are forming. Your body is working to develop the placenta which is used to transfer nutrients and oxygen to the baby, and also produces the hormones that enable your baby to develop. Incredibly, with all this activity taking place, by the end of your first month your baby will measure a ¼ inch in length – the size of a small seed.
 
  • You might experience some indicators that are associated with the later stages of pregnancy, too; backache, popping to the loo more frequently and tender boobs are all culprits.
  • And last (but by no means least, we aren’t that heartless) – the dreaded morning sickness. Around a half of all pregnant women will experience vomiting and nausea, one quarter will just feel nauseous (we say ‘just’ flippantly – but we don’t mean it!) and one quarter won’t feel any at all – fingers crossed it’s you! There are several suggested reasons but, unfortunately, nobody seems to have a definitive answer. All we can suggest is stocking up on ginger and riding it out.

Just because these symptoms are common, it doesn’t mean that you’ll definitely experience them and everyone’s body is different. At the very least, you’ve got a great present coming in 9 months!

Once your pregnancy has been confirmed you’ll be bombarded with advice and guidance from your midwife, including how you can keep both yourself and your baby healthy for the best part of the next year. There will also be plenty of support and tips to combating the early symptoms of pregnancy.

It can be a good idea to discuss the changes you’re going through with close friends and family. You’ll be inundated with stories about their own pregnancy experiences, but you may learn something valuable. Bounty also have a great week by week tracker and it’s great for learning about the progress of your unborn baba!

Image Credit: http://bit.ly/1l6rCMc

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Rise and Shine – Secrets to a Good Night’s Sleep during Pregnancy

4998518821_2e5f234546_o

We all need our sleep and even more so during pregnancy. However, sleep can be an elusive creature – with countless toilet breaks, you won’t stay comfortable for long! Here are a few simple things to remember that can improve the quality of your sleep. All can be adapted as you progress through your pregnancy.

  • Ensuring you have a calm and relaxing environment in which to sleep is really important. A chaotic bedroom isn’t the best place to be when you’re trying to chill out. They say that clearing clutter clears the mind and it definitely does work. As your nesting instinct kicks in, you might find that having a de-clutter of your bedroom can help. Removing technology, including the laptop, tablet and TV, allows you to switch off and benefit from peace of mind and tranquillity.
  • Give yourself time to wind down if you have been watching TV or using a computer before bedtime. A warm bath before bed is the perfect way to relax and unwind, soothing weary feet and aching backs in the process. Try not to look at an electronic screen for 30 minutes before sleep – the light and close proximity wake your eyes & brain and make them more animated. This will, of course, make it harder to sleep.
  • Pregnancy can cause you to have some crazy dreams and so you could keep a notebook by the bed. You’ll be able to jot down anything that is niggling you or reminders for the next day and relax knowing you won’t have forgotten them.
  • As your bump grows you may need more support in bed to get comfy. Supporting your bump with a pillow that is big enough to fit between your legs (eh!) can help. The Dreamgenii support pillow was Jules’ favourite during her pregnancy.
  • Snuggling up with a warming drink is also a good way to prepare for sleep, although try to avoid caffeine. Heartburn is pretty common during pregnancy and can cause problems with your sleep. Smaller, more regular meals can help by giving our bodies adequate time to digest food before you go to bed will also make a big difference.
  • Trying to establish a good sleeping pattern by going to bed and rising at roughly the same time each day and night can also help to obtain better quality sleep. This may prove tricky as baby gets bigger, as they are often more active just as we are ready to slow things down. Flexibility is also key, so if circumstances permit and you feel the need to grab a power nap during the day, do try to take the time out that you need.

Sweet Dreams!

 

Image Credit: http://bit.ly/1nemw0D

Our tips to stop you from overheating this summer

wfw16

Finally the sun is shining and it feels like summer is upon us – in true British style, without warning, temperatures have soared over the past week. The sunshine is totally welcome but the sudden increase in temperature leaves our bodies struggling to cope through hot days and nights (as a side note, does anyone else feel like it’s actually hotter once you’re in bed at night?)

You may have only just found out you’re pregnant, but already you’ll be running hot. As early as 11 weeks into pregnancy our body temperatures increase, making us feel warmer. You can blame increases in blood levels and the fact that your body has to work that little bit harder. Without lecturing you, it’s important to remain well hydrated as there are quite a few side effects – you can get cramping that will feel similar to period pains if you’re not drinking enough water.

Stay hydrated

  • We are told over and over again, even when we aren’t in the family way. However, dehydration is the main cause of swelling in your hands and feet when you’re pregnant. With an ever expanding waist, the last thing you’ll want is extra padding. Try to drink water, rather than fizzy drinks or fruit squashes. Both are packed with sugar and most fizzy drinks contain caffeine, which is a diuretic and will dehydrate you further.
  • Unfortunately, some of you may be prone to pregnancy acne. Drinking plenty of water will help this, as it flushes out toxins and boosts you immune system. Water is also great for your digestion and can help with heartburn caused by your growing little one.
  • The dreaded morning sickness carries risks of dehydration too, but drinking litres of water may be the last thing you want. You could always try cutting up some ginger and putting this in your water. Leave it for a few minutes to infuse and you’ve got a natural, hydrating quick fix (we wanted to say cure, but can’t promise that!).
  • Try filling a spray bottle with crushed ice & water and leave this in your handbag. A quick spritz on your face, arms and legs whilst you’re sat in the shade and you’ll cool right down. You can get the small bottles from most supermarkets but we know for sure that Boots sells them (only in the UK, we think).
  • Natural fabrics also help you keep cool and you can take the opportunity to have a good spending spree. With the current trend for over-sized clothing, you’ll be able to take advantage of high street options as well as investing in pieces that will last you beyond your pregnancy. Try pieces in cotton and linen in particular – Beaumont Organics have a beautiful new SS14 collection that you really should check out. Although not maternity or nursing, you could team most pieces with one of our nursing camis if you’re worried about your tummy showing.
  • Fruit and vegetables (carrots, sliced red & orange bell peppers, for example) that have been kept in the fridge will help to cool you down, as well as provide nutrients. Fresh, seasonal produce is full of flavour and opting for lighter meals rather than heavy comfort dishes will help with digestion, energy levels and you’ll be able to avoid feeling bloated.
  • Take advantage of all the poolside invitations you’ll be getting 😉 You might not feel like stripping off, but a gentle swim will give you a much needed cool down, whilst supporting the weight of your bump. If the invitations aren’t quite flooding in (get it?) a cool bath or shower will do the trick and you will be safe in the comfort of your own bathroom.

Image Credit: http://bit.ly/1qH48B1

dvo1

How cool is Denise Van Outen?

We’re super impressed with Denise Van Outen’s outfit – she’s rockin’ all the trends  just 4 weeks before her baby girl is due! We’d be slobbing about in grubby tracky bottoms and orthopedic shoes, mainlining Ben & Jerrys. But she’s managing to combine slinky nautical stripes, statement jewelry, a transition parka AND lace tights (I mean wow, right?). Wonder what undies she’s wearing…

Find a similar dress at TopShop, a parka at Zara (a couple of nice styles in navy and olive spotted on my last lunchtime browse), lace tights at TightsPlease (roll the top under your bump) or if you’re not so brave, some 70 deniers at Mama-la-Mode. The high-street is full of All-Saints style boots (but we think it’s nicer to get the originals – we don’t like rip-offs!)

maternity-office-wear1

What can pregnant women in the city wear?

shirt

My fantastic friend Rebecca at Melba and I were interviewed yesterday for City AM. The conversation obviously turned to the difficulties that pregnant women in the city face – not least of all the hassle of finding decent, stylish pieces to wear. We know that Top Shop’s disposable pieces are fab, that you can now find a whole host of wrap dresses, drapey jersey trousers and pretty kaftans on the high street, but the look is often more Soho than Citybank. Which is why we were very interested to see that Thomas Pink have launched a range of maternity shirts; classic, tailored, sharp – a great investment piece and a winner in our book. What other brands would you recommend?

We have now closed the site, but don’t worry, you can still get beautiful maternity & nursing lingerie at Cake Maternity. They make lovely products in a large range of sizes, which we’re sure you’ll also love. #lovethebodyyouarein