Are you looking for the ultimate list of second trimester essentials? My daily regimen always changes during pregnancy, especially during the third time around. Today I’m sharing my second trimester survival kit – the essential items for pregnancy to have on hand during your second trimester.
Are you only in the first trimester? READ THIS FIRST!

Second Trimester Essentials
Sleep Pillow: As soon as I hit 16 weeks pregnant, I become uncomfortable with my regular pillows in bed. For my first two pregnancies I used the Leachco Snoogle Total Body Pillow. We gave it away when we thought we were done having children though.
During my third pregnancy I am loving The Big Daddy pillow by JUVEA. The brand sent me their newest speciality pillow to try out during my pregnancy and I have been loving it for over a month. The Big Daddy is an overstuffed king sized pillow ideal for side sleepers; it’s soft and comfortable! If you’re looking to invest in a pillow you can use before, during, and after pregnancy – I highly recommend The Big Daddy pillow.
Prenatal vitamins: One of the most essential items for pregnancy are prenatal vitamins. I like to take the One A Day Prenatal Vitamins or Nature Made Multi Prenatal Vitamin with a full meal in my belly, right before bed, so I don’t get nauseous. They are potent little pills and I don’t recommend taking one without food in your system.
Hydration Drinks: Hydration is so important during pregnancy, but sometimes plain water isn’t enough. I use various hydration tablets or powders once a day to boost my electrolytes. While coconut water and sports drinks are hydrating, they lack electrolytes and vitamins. Always check the ingredients because added sugar or caffeine is not good during pregnancy! Here are my favorite brands:
Ultima (no sugar), LMNT (no sugar + $$), Hydrant
What you MUST buy to wear during the Second Trimester
Bump Friendly Pajamas: When your bump and hips start to grow its SO important to find pajamas that are comfortable. There’s nothing worse than a pair of pants too tight around the waist or an unintentional belly shirt. I’ve been wearing non-maternity pajamas from Tommy John and Kindred Bravely and maternity Lake pajamas.
A GOOD Bra and Undies: I firmly believe a good bra and underwear can chance any pregnant Mama’s mood instantly. However, the definition of ‘good’ will vary from woman to woman. During my first two pregnancies I wore wireless nursing bras and boy shorts from Target. However this pregnancy I find Aerie underwire bras are much more supportive and comfortable. Nursing bras lack shape and can leave you feeling (and looking) messy. The underwire bra holds up a growing chest so much better. Aerie’s boybrief underwear bundles are very comfortable and affordable too!
Maternity Leggings: I’m a long time fan of Lululemon Align leggings for pregnancy, but also love the Zella Mamasana maternity leggings I picked up during the Nordstrom sale. Leggings are a must have during the second trimester because there will be days you want to feel comfortable and jeans will NOT do the trick.
Pelvic Support Belt with V Sling: I’m a huge supporter of the Belly Bandit V-Sling which is doctor-recommended and designed to address severe pelvic pain associated with pregnancy. It provides maximum support of the uterine wall and relieves both pelvic and vaginal pressure. Say goodbye to pregnancy waddle, pain and discomfort with this innovative support that can be worn day or night.
Second Trimester Skincare Essentials
Stretch Mark Oil: One of the first things my Mom bought me when I was pregnant back in 2013 was a bottle of Bio-Oil. During my third pregnancy, I still LOVE Bio-Oil for nourishing my dry stretched skin and hopefully preventing stretch marks. I use Bio-Oil two times a day on my belly, breasts, hips, butt, and thighs. I know stretch marks are inevitable if they are in your genes, but I may as well be as preventative as I can be!
Sheep 8 Sleepy Body Lotion: The Sheep 8 organic sleepy body lotion is life changing if you have evening aches and pains. From back to belly, calves to feet, this lotion is magical. I also use it for midnight Charley Horses. The lotion was specially formulated to help pregnant moms with insomnia and pregnancy pains like restless legs, leg cramps, and lower back/ hip pain.
The RIGHT Skincare Products: Along with lots of other changes happening in your body as itβs subjected to pregnancy hormones, your skin goes through some changes too.There are a variety of skincare items you’ll want during your pregnancy for dry skin, especially if you’re not hydrating enough. Always check the labels of beauty products during pregnancy – like Retinol (read more here.) My favorite moisturizing pregnancy safe skincare products are from Maelove, Necessaire, and Aquaphor.
All opinions expressed are MY OWN. This post contains affiliate links.
Are you only in the first trimester? READ THIS FIRST!

I use the Coco butter like you mentioned, a body pillow until I MUST HAVE the pregnancy pillow,same vitamins and I’ve also enjoyed a vitamin called Omegaplex (www.advocareimpact.us)and Crystal Light lemonade, to name a few ;). I hear you on the boob thing, mine do not fit in ANY of my bras, not even sports bras. I’m used to not having any so they feel heavy, awkward and in the way!
I haven’t been pregnant but with some close friends recently having babies, I’ve been getting the scoop on good products as gift ideas. My best friend said that the Bath & Body Works True Blue shea butter lotion is AMAZING and is cheaper than a lot of other shea butter lotions. Also, she recommended the belly band and the pregnancy pillow π
I’m 22 weeks and right now, it’s all about the sunscreen. My fair skin is even more sensitive now that I’m pregnant so an SPF at all times is a must. I use Vaseline Aloe Vera with SPF 15 daily.
I agree with a body pillow, I don’t think we have enough room in our queen bed for one, so I’ve been sticking an extra pillow between my knees to take pressure off my hips.
I highly recommend a belly band if you don’t already have one. It helps so you can wear those shorts and jeans a little bit longer. π
That body pillow looks and sounds amazing!
xx
Kelly
Sparkles and Shoes
Oh man…those vitamins made me sooooooooo sick π
Oh man…those vitamins made me sooooooooo sick π
YES!!! That 8 Sheeps Lotion is the best for pains and restless legs during pregnancy! Honestly I still use it when Iβm struggling to sleep or relax.