So You’re Pregnant in Lake County … Now What?

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It seems like it was just yesterday (ok, technically five months ago) that I was still pregnant with my little guy. I recall taking weekly bump photos and anxiously awaiting the next ultrasound appointment, shopping for maternity clothes, craving Cinnamon Toast Crunch nonstop, soaking up all the wonderful well wishes, and, of course, decorating the nursery. Ahh, the memories!

Sound familiar? You might be pregnant in Lake County! In those rare moments when you’re not dancing on air or completely freaking out, you may wonder what to do next. Here’s a list of things to do as that bump grows during the coming months:

6 Things to do When Pregnant in Lake County

Buy Maternity Clothes

Dress the bump! There are plenty of stores that offer maternity clothes: Motherhood Maternity, Loft, H&M, Gap, Old Navy, and Target, to name a few.  Looking for some alternative options? There’s Pink Blush Maternity. Want to try on clothing from your own home?  Try Stitch Fix, a company that sends a monthly box delivered to your doorstep with pieces that fit your personal style (both for maternity and non-maternity clothing).  And don’t forget to take advantage of the upcoming resale events going on throughout Lake County, where you can find some affordable options. I’ve tried out clothes from all these places and curated a great wardrobe to take me through my pregnancy!

Prenatal Yoga in Lake County

Prenatal yoga can help prepare your body and mind for birth and post-natal recovery in a number of ways. You’ll focus on gentle stretching and movement, as well as breathing exercises, which I know helped me out when it came time to deliver. I really enjoyed my prenatal yoga classes with Patricia at Prairie Sunshine Yoga in Grayslake.

Get a Massage

You are growing a tiny human, so it’s important to pamper yourself!  Treat yourself to a prenatal massage to help you relax your muscles. I particularly enjoyed the fact that I could lay on my stomach with the help of a neat prenatal pillow. Downright relaxing, I tell ya!

Book a Photo Session

If you want to have maternity portraits taken, schedule a session with a photographer. Be sure to browse Pinterest for some fun ideas/shots that you can replicate! And don’t forget to check out the best outdoor places to get photographs taken in Lake County. While you are at it, secure a photographer for newborn photos!  They happen relatively quickly after birth. Most photographers recommended photos within the first 7-10 days of the baby’s life, and many recommend booking 3 months before your due date. You’ll feel better having your photographer secured ahead of time. Also, ask them about maternity + newborn packages that will schedule both shoots and sometimes offer a discount.

Sign up for Classes and Support groups.

Being a first-time parent, I took advantage of several classes offered through the hospital- from infant CPR to breastfeeding to hospital tours and childbirth 101. When the baby arrives, keep this list of 15 things to do with your baby in Lake County in mind, as well as this roundup of Lake County parent/mom groups. And remember, mom and tot classes and playgroups aren’t for the baby they are for you! You will find adult conversation, connection, and support.

Indulge those Cravings

I didn’t have any particularly odd cravings, mainly just dairy and carbs. But you better believe I was checking out all the ice cream spots in Lake County along with the best pizza spots!  Yum! If you crave something other than pizza and ice cream, take a browse through Dining in Lake County, and I’m sure you’ll find something that will satisfy that craving!

What am I missing?  Tell me below in the comments!

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