Pregnancy Tips I Wish I Knew Sooner

Pregnancy is beautiful, but let’s be honest, it can also be overwhelming, uncomfortable, and full of unknowns. From morning sickness to backaches, there’s a lot your body is navigating while you’re growing new life.

As a mom of three and a virtual birth doula, I’ve walked through the ups and downs of pregnancy, personally and alongside other women. I’ve learned firsthand what actually helps and what just adds to the noise.

So today, I want to share the pregnancy tips I truly wish I had known from the very beginning. These are the game-changers, the things that made my last pregnancy more joyful, more peaceful, and yes, more comfortable.

My hope is that these tips help you feel more supported, energized, and confident as you prepare to meet your baby.

I am a certified birth and postpartum doula and trained herbalist, not a licensed medical doctor. The information shared on this website is based on my education, experience, and personal research, and is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your health or the health of your baby—especially if you are pregnant, postpartum, have any medical conditions, or are taking medications. Any use of herbal remedies, natural products, or wellness practices discussed on this site is at your own discretion and risk. The content shared here is meant to support, not replace, the relationship you have with your trusted medical provider.

Some of these links are affiliate links meaning if you purchase from these links, I will earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Everything I share is my own opinions and things I personally use and love. You can learn more by reviewing my disclosure. As an Amazon affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

1. Get a Virtual Birth Doula

I can’t say this enough, having emotional support during pregnancy changes everything. I struggled during my early pregnancies. My doctors were dismissive, and because I deal with social anxiety, I knew having a traditional doula physically in my space wasn’t right for me.

Then I found out about virtual doulas, and it was like a breath of fresh air.

My doula was there when I needed someone to listen, when I had a question, or when I needed encouragement to trust my instincts.

She supported me emotionally, educated me on both holistic and medical options, and never pressured me in any direction. Just steady support.

Now I’m that doula for other moms. If you’re looking for gentle, grounded support through pregnancy or postpartum, I’d be honored to walk with you.

This is what I recommend as one of my top 1st trimester essentials.

2. If Your Doctor Doesn’t Listen – Switch Early

During my third pregnancy, I had complications: velamentous cord insertion, gestational diabetes, and a history of shoulder dystocia. I brought up my concerns, but every time I was told my pregnancy was “normal.”

One doctor even told me gestational diabetes wasn’t a real medical problem (cue mind blown emoji)

I tried to switch providers at 32 weeks, but no one would take me. It was heartbreaking and scary.

If your care team isn’t listening to you or if something feels off, switch as soon as possible. You deserve a provider who respects your voice and prioritizes your well-being.

3. Eat More Protein

Gestational diabetes changed my diet, but in the best way.

I started balancing my meals with protein and carbs (like 30g of protein with 30g of carbs), and the difference was incredible. I had energy again. I wasn’t crashing by 10 a.m. I could keep up with my toddlers, my business, and still feel good in my body.

I didn’t realize how little protein I’d been eating until I saw what a difference it made.

If you’re feeling exhausted all the time, try upping your protein. It might be the missing piece.

Check my top fave pregnancy snacks.

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4. Try Energy Plus (Plant-Based Iron Support)

Many women struggle with low iron levels during pregnancy, especially in the second or third trimester.

If your iron tends to dip during pregnancy, Energy Plus is a game-changer. It’s an herbal iron extract, and when I used it, my iron levels stayed steady.

No constipation, no nausea, just plant-based support that worked.

My 3rd pregnancy was the first pregnancy I used it, and for the first time, my doctor didn’t tell me I was low on iron. In fact, they were surprised by how good my levels were!

5. Use a TENS Unit for Back Pain

TENS units aren’t just for labor; they’re safe to use during pregnancy, too

After researching, I found that it’s safe and effective for relieving back pain in pregnant women. I was thrilled because I had used my TENS unit before getting pregnant and was familiar with its benefits—I didn’t want to wait nine months to use it again!.

I used mine anytime my back was aching or I felt early contractions. It brought such relief and helped me avoid unnecessary medication. I also used it during labor, it’s one of my favorite tools for natural pain relief.

This is one of my top favorite 3rd trimester essentials.

6. Red Raspberry Leaf Extract Over Tea

Red raspberry leaf is a powerful uterine tonic and widely loved for birth prep. But I found the tea hard to drink without adding a lot of sugar.

That’s when I discovered the herbal extract version. Just a few drops under the tongue daily. It’s easy, convenient, and still gives you the same benefits. I recommend it to all my clients!

7. Take a Pelvic Floor Course

I spent years battling pelvic pain with no answers.

Eventually, I found a pelvic floor course that walked me through exactly what to do—gentle, at-home movements that made a real difference.

I learned how to support my body through pregnancy, prepare for birth, and heal afterward. I also learned that pelvic pain is NOT NORMAL and something CAN be done!

It was affordable, effective, and something I could do in the comfort of my home. (If you’re interested, you can use code TEKURIO for 15% off.)

8. Magnesium Lotion for Constipation and Leg Cramps

As I started eating more protein and fewer processed foods, constipation became an issue.

Instead of reaching for laxatives, I used a natural magnesium lotion each night. It helped things move gently and also relieved those annoying leg cramps. Plus, it’s a soothing nighttime ritual I came to love.

You can even make your own magnesium lotion, it’s simple and effective (here is my diy magnesium lotion recipe).

9. Don’t Wait to Get a Birthing Ball (and a Butt Pillow!)

I wish I hadn’t waited until the third trimester to get these!

Birthing balls are wonderful for stretching, strengthening your core, and supporting your pelvic floor from the start of pregnancy. And if you’re dealing with pelvic pain? A donut pillow is a lifesaver.

Comfort items are worth investing in early. Your body is doing sacred, hard work—it deserves all the support.

10. My Favorite Standing Pregnancy Workout

This 12-minute standing workout was my go-to for all three trimesters—and postpartum too!

It’s gentle but effective, with 20 seconds of movement and 10 seconds of rest. You can scale it up with weights or keep it light, depending on your energy. No getting on the floor, no long routines—just something you can actually stick with.

P.S. I was able to get a FREE maternity support band that I use whenever I do this workout through Aeroflow. They also will help you get a FREE breast pump too! Be sure to check it out and see if you qualify for a free maternity support band, they are so worth it.

11. Sea Moss Sugar Scrub for Stretchy, Itchy Skin

I made a simple sea moss sugar scrub this pregnancy, and wow—my belly has never felt better.

My skin stayed soft and hydrated, and I only got a few stretch marks this time around. It worked better than any oil or store-bought cream I tried. Definitely worth trying if you’re battling dry, itchy skin.

12. Use Lacrosse Balls for Pelvic Tension

One of the best pain relief hacks I found this pregnancy was using lacrosse and spiky massage balls for pelvic pain.

I’d place the ball against the wall or on my bed and gently move to release tension in my glutes and hips. It worked better than my chiropractor ever did, and I could do it at home, whenever I needed it.

It’s a simple, affordable tool that brought real relief. It is one of my top 2nd trimester essentials.

Final Thoughts

Pregnancy doesn’t have to feel like survival mode. There are ways to feel stronger, more at peace, and better supported—even during the hard days.

These are the tips I wish someone had told me earlier. I hope they give you the same hope and relief they gave me.

And if you’re looking for a doula who truly listens and walks beside you with compassion, I’d love to support you. You don’t have to do this alone.