The Ultimate Pregnancy & Maternity Must Haves for New Expecting Moms

Recommended Products List

1. Relief Band
2. Sea-Band (Accupressure)
3. Ginger Products
4. Lead Free Water Bottle
5. Momcozy U-Shaped Pregnancy Pillow
6. Iron Supplement
7. Vitamin D Supplement
8. Prenatal Multi Vitamin
9. Compression Socks
10. Sound Machine

BONUS: Amazon Coupons

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Local Metro Detroit Recommended Service Provider List

1. Dr. Rachel Elizabeth (Pelvic Floor)
2. The Pregnancy Bar (Ultrasounds, Chiropractic, Infusions, Massage & more)
3. Sol Midwifery (Home Birth Midwifery, Mostly Lapeer/North Oakland Counties)
4. It’s Your Birth Midwifery (Home Birth & Birth Center Midwifery, Oakland County)
5. Tiffany Timmins (Hypnobirthing & Childbirth Education)
6. Dr. Nora (Embody Health Chiropractic)

Not In Metro Detroit Use these Quick Links to Find Your Local Service Providers

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Find Your Way Around!

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Pregnancy is incredible, and let’s be honest, it can also be uncomfortable. Between morning sickness that lasts all day, back pain that makes you walk like a penguin, and trying to find a sleep position that doesn’t feel like you’re balancing a watermelon, you deserve solutions that actually work.

We’ve put together this guide specifically for expecting moms in Birmingham, Rochester, Clarkston, and throughout Metro Detroit. These aren’t just random product recommendations, these are practical, researched solutions to the most common pregnancy challenges we hear about from our clients every week. As a maternity and newborn photographer working with pregnant moms throughout Oakland County, we’ve seen firsthand what makes a real difference in comfort and confidence during pregnancy.

Ready to feel better? Let’s dive into the essentials that’ll help you enjoy this journey a little more!

Why These Products Made Our List

We focused on the top five most common pregnancy symptoms based on clinical research: fatigue, nausea, back pain, sleep difficulty, and heartburn. Every product recommendation addresses at least one of these challenges, because when you feel better, everything else gets a little easier.

Plus, if you’re in the Birmingham or Rochester area, we’ve included local resources and tips specific to Michigan moms!

Morning Sickness Relief! You’re Going to Want to Purchase This TODAY!

Let’s start with what might be your biggest struggle right now: nausea. Up to 88% of pregnant women experience morning sickness (which, spoiler alert, can happen any time of day). The good news? There’s a solution that actually works, and it’s not what you’d expect.

Take it from me, I am currently 18 weeks as of this blog post and I spent weeks 4 through 10 on my knees multiple times a day spitting up bile and stomach acid. I purchased this nausea relief and now I keep it for my pregnant moms I see at the studio! It was a LIFE SAVER!

ReliefBand (The Secret Weapon)

Here’s something most pregnant moms don’t know: there’s a wearable device that stops nausea in its tracks using hospital-grade neuromodulation technology. It’s called ReliefBand, and while it was originally designed for motion sickness, it’s been clinically proven and FDA-approved specifically for pregnancy morning sickness.

How It Works: ReliefBand isn’t just another acupressure wristband. It uses gentle electrical pulses to stimulate the median nerve on your wrist, which blocks nausea signals before they even reach your brain. Think of it like hitting “mute” on the part of your nervous system that’s causing the problem. It works in minutes and lasts for hours. This is basically a mobile TENS unit for your wrist. It has multiple levels to it. I made it up to level 4 before it was a bit much. My husband tried it at MAX POWER… he said it wasn’t bad LOL.

Why This Matters: Most pregnancy nausea products rely on simple pressure points (which help some people), but ReliefBand uses the same technology trusted by hospitals and oncology clinics. With an 85% success rate in clinical trials, this is serious relief without medications, side effects, or drowsiness.

The Market Gap: Here’s the interesting part, ReliefBand is heavily marketed for seasickness, air travel, and VR gaming, but barely targets pregnant women. That means you probably have no idea this solution exists! I originally was fed it via my doomscrolling habit because it saw I’m headed to Hawaii and looking at boat tours… I connected the dots and bought it the second I threw up the first time. It couldn’t have come any sooner and it was truly a life saver! If you want to try it out, and you are local to Metro Detroit send us a message. I would love to show you our studio in Downtown Rochester and help you decide if this is right for you. I went with the Premier+ model.

The ONLY thing I don’t like is the charger is a proprietary charging mechanism that easily detaches so you need to be extra careful when charging to not bump it at all or it will not charge!

2026 Models & Pricing:

ReliefBand Classic ($149.99)

• Uses 2 replaceable CR2025 batteries (80-120 hours use)
• 5 intensity levels
• Water resistant (not waterproof)
• Great budget-friendly option

ReliefBand Premier+ ($299.99)

• 10 intensity levels
• Sleek fitness band design
• USB rechargeable (approximately 18 hours of use)
• Splash-resistant (IPX4)
• Hypoallergenic surgical grade steel contacts (latex-free)

ReliefBand Sport ($249.99)

• IPX7 waterproof rating (fully submersible)
• 6 intensity levels
• USB rechargeable (30 hours continuous use at medium power)
• Perfect if you’re active or want to use it in the shower

Where to Buy: Available on Amazon and ReliefBand.com. All models are FSA/HSA eligible with a 14-day money-back guarantee!

Other Nausea Solutions That Help

If you’re looking for budget-friendly options or want to try multiple approaches:

Sea-Band Mama Acupressure Wristbands ($8-15) – Simple, affordable, and drug-free. These use traditional acupressure on the P6 point. While not as powerful as ReliefBand, they’re a gentle option many moms swear by, including myself. I call it my safety band. It really acts almost like a mental security device to keep nausea at bay!

Ginger Products – Ginger tea, ginger candies, or ginger capsules can help settle your stomach naturally. Keep some stashed in your car and purse. I hate the taste of ginger, so I cannot talk to these, but my husband swears by it for nausea.

Small, Frequent Meals – Eating every 2 to 3 hours (even if it’s just crackers) helps keep blood sugar stable and reduces nausea triggers. Something to eat in the morning has also really helped. Just anything small, but enough to get your stomach acid working in the morning. REAL food only please!

Local Support: If your morning sickness is severe (hyperemesis gravidarum), reach out to your healthcare provider. Corewell Health delivers one in three Michigan babies and has excellent maternal care teams throughout Oakland County. University of Michigan Health’s Von Voigtlander Women’s Hospital also offers advanced neonatal care if you need specialized support.

Feeling better already? Once that nausea lifts, you’ll have so much more energy to enjoy this special time, including capturing your pregnancy journey with maternity photos here in Metro Detroit!

Rest & Recovery Essentials

Pregnancy fatigue is real, and it’s exhausting. Your body is literally building another human, of course you’re tired! Between 48% and 98% of pregnant women experience fatigue, especially in the first and third trimesters.

Why You’re So Tired

Your body is working overtime: increased blood volume, higher progesterone levels, and your organs shifting to accommodate your growing baby. Add disrupted sleep into the mix, and no wonder you want to nap at 2 PM every day. Did you know you are basically running back to back marathons growing a new baby inside of you?!

What Actually Helps

Quality Sleep Support – We’ll cover pregnancy pillows in detail below, but having proper body support at night makes a massive difference in how rested you feel.

Hydration is Key – Invest in a good quality, lead-free water bottle and keep it with you everywhere. Dehydration amplifies fatigue. Aim for 8 to 12 cups daily.

Iron-Rich Nutrition – Many pregnant women develop iron-deficiency anemia, which causes extreme tiredness. Talk to your doctor about prenatal vitamins with iron, and add iron-rich foods like lean meats, leafy greens, and fortified cereals.

Vitamin D – If you live in a state with a real winter or just cloudy winters you’re going to want to supplement during those months if you are not getting enough sunlight.

Strategic Rest – You don’t need permission to rest, but we’re giving it to you anyway. Short 20-minute naps can be incredibly restorative. Listen to your body.

Local Resource: The Pregnancy Bar in Birmingham offers pregnancy chiropractic care, which many moms find helps with overall energy and body alignment during pregnancy.

Planning Your Maternity Session:

When you’re ready to book your Rochester maternity photography session, let us know your energy peaks! We can schedule around when you feel your best, usually mid-morning or early afternoon. Everything’s included in our sessions (hair, makeup, wardrobe), so you just show up and we’ll take care of the rest. We recommend you book in your 1st to 2nd trimester and hold your session between 28 and 34 weeks. If you are past 34 weeks we typically cannot schedule you in for your and your baby’s safety. You might not think a photoshoot is a lot of energy, but we have had mothers give birth early or feel miserable and not be able to complete their session!

Back Pain & Pelvic Support

Between 44% and 60% of pregnant women experience back pain, and it tends to get worse as your pregnancy progresses. The culprit? Your growing uterus shifts your center of gravity forward, straining your lower back and putting pressure on your pelvis.

Why a Pregnancy Pillow Matters

This isn’t just about comfort, it’s about proper spinal alignment and reducing pressure on your joints. Side-sleeping (the recommended position for pregnancy) can strain your hips and pelvis without proper support. A good pregnancy pillow keeps your spine aligned, supports your belly, and cushions pressure points.

The Pillow Between Your Legs: Why It Works

Physical therapists specializing in pelvic health consistently recommend placing a pillow between your knees during sleep. Here’s why it’s so effective:

Spinal Alignment – Keeps your hips, pelvis, and spine in proper alignment Reduced Pelvic Pressure – Takes strain off the pelvic floor and sacroiliac joint Better Circulation – Prevents compressing major blood vessels Less Hip Pain – Especially helpful if you’re experiencing symphysis pubis dysfunction (SPD)

Top Pregnancy Pillow Recommendations for 2026

Momcozy U-Shaped Pregnancy Pillow (around $45) – Full-body support from head to toe. The U-shape cradles your back and belly simultaneously, and at around $45, it’s incredibly affordable. Customers rave about the comfort and support.

bbhugme Pregnancy Pillow ($219) – If you’re dealing with severe pelvic pain or SPD, this is worth the investment. The ergonomic shape and pressure-relieving microbead fill specifically target hip and pelvic discomfort. Many physical therapists recommend this one.

PharMeDoc Full Body C-Shaped Pillow ($40-60) – Great space-saver if you’re worried about taking over the entire bed. Supports head, neck, back, belly, and legs all at once.

Wedge Pillows ($20-40) – For targeted support under your belly or behind your back. These are perfect if you’re not ready to commit to a full-body pillow.

Proper Positioning Technique

• Lie on your left side (optimizes circulation)
• Place the pillow between your knees, extending down to your ankles
• Position a section under your belly for support
• Keep your spine as straight as possible

Local Support: The Pregnancy Bar in Birmingham offers pregnancy-specific chiropractic adjustments that can complement your at-home support strategies. Many of our Birmingham and Rochester clients see chiropractors throughout pregnancy for back pain management.

Dr. Rachael Elizabeth in Rochester Hills specializes in pelvic floor physical therapy and can help with pregnancy-related pelvic pain and dysfunction.

Outdoor Maternity Photos: When we host outdoor maternity sessions, we always keep your comfort in mind. If standing for long periods hurts your back, we’ve got beautiful seated options and quick pose changes to keep you comfortable throughout the session.

Sleep Solutions for the Third Trimester

Sleep difficulty affects 30% to 74% of pregnant women and tends to worsen in the third trimester. Between bathroom trips, heartburn, and trying to get comfortable with a basketball-sized belly, quality sleep can feel impossible.

Full-Body Sleep System

If you haven’t invested in a pregnancy pillow yet, now’s the time. The pillows we mentioned above do double-duty for sleep comfort:

Elevation for Heartburn – Prop yourself up slightly to reduce acid reflux Leg Support – Reduces swelling and leg cramps Temperature Regulation – Look for breathable covers (cotton or bamboo)

Additional Sleep Helpers

Compression Socks – Wear these during the day and evening to reduce nighttime swelling. Brands like Bombas make comfortable, non-binding options.

White Noise or Sound Machine – Helps drown out environmental sounds and signals your brain it’s sleep time.

Cool Room Temperature – Pregnancy runs hot! Keep your bedroom between 60 and 67°F for optimal sleep.

Bedtime Routine – Consistent wind-down rituals signal your body it’s time to rest. Try gentle stretching, warm (not hot) baths, or reading.

Michigan Weather Considerations

Rochester, Birmingham, and Clarkston experience all four seasons intensely! Layer your bedding so you can adjust throughout the night. In winter, use breathable layers rather than one heavy comforter. In summer, consider a fan or AC to stay comfortable.

Planning ahead? After baby arrives, you’ll want to capture those first precious days. Metro Detroit newborn photography sessions are best scheduled while you’re still pregnant (we recommend booking during your second trimester) to ensure availability during that narrow newborn window. Newborn portraits (especially posed ones) are typically held between 1 and 4 weeks old. The younger the easier it will be to capture them when they are the most sleepy!

Heartburn Relief | Finding Comfort in the Final Stretch

Heartburn and indigestion increase significantly in the third trimester as your growing uterus pushes your stomach upward. While it’s uncomfortable, there are several ways to find relief.

Eating Strategies That Work

Small, Frequent Meals – Eating five to six smaller meals instead of three large ones reduces stomach pressure.

Avoid Trigger Foods – Common culprits include spicy foods, citrus, tomatoes, chocolate, and caffeine. Notice what makes your symptoms worse and skip those.

Don’t Eat Before Bed – Try to finish eating at least 2 to 3 hours before lying down.

Stay Upright After Eating – Give gravity a chance to help! Remain upright for at least an hour after meals.

Sleep Position Matters

Use pillows or a wedge to elevate your upper body while sleeping. Even a 30-degree angle can make a significant difference in nighttime heartburn.

Safe Remedies

Milk or Yogurt – Some moms find cold milk or yogurt soothes their heartburn naturally.

Ginger or Chamomile Tea – Gentle, natural options that may help settle your stomach.

If heartburn is severe or persistent, talk to your doctor. They may recommend stronger (but still pregnancy-safe) options.

Preparing for Baby & Getting Your Nursery Equipped

As you’re gathering your pregnancy essentials, you’re probably also thinking about what you’ll need once baby arrives. We’ve got you covered there too!

Check out our comprehensive guide: Newborn Must-Haves: The Ultimate 2026 Baby Registry Checklist. It covers everything from eco-friendly diapers to smart sleep systems, all the products that’ll make those early weeks easier.

The Timing Connection

Here’s something many first-time moms don’t realize: you should book your newborn photography session while you’re still pregnant. Newborn sessions are ideally done within the first 1 to 4 weeks after birth when babies are still sleepy and curly. By booking during pregnancy, you secure your spot and we can be on standby for when baby arrives!

Local Resources for Birmingham, Rochester & Clarkston Expecting Moms

You’re not alone in this journey! Metro Detroit has incredible support systems for pregnant moms.

Healthcare & Support

University of Michigan Health, Von Voigtlander Women’s Hospital – Advanced care for high-risk pregnancies and exceptional neonatal services.

The Pregnancy Bar (Birmingham, MI)

• 2D, 3D, and 4D ultrasounds (starting at 6 weeks)
• Gender determination (ultrasound or blood test)
• IV therapy customized for pregnancy and postpartum
• Prenatal and postpartum massage
• Pregnancy-specific chiropractic care
• Monthly birthing classes
• Website: www.pregnancy-bar.com

Dr. Rachael Elizabeth – Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy & Women’s Health Coach

• Location: 1460 Walton Blvd, Suite 224, Rochester Hills, MI 48309
• Phone: 248-274-6338
• Website: www.drrachaelelizabeth.com

Want to Home Birth? I am currently choosing this option as I did not have a great experience in the hospital with my first born. I chose Sol Midwifery out of Lapeer, Michigan, however they typically do not travel too far into Oakland County. The other one I was recommended (but did not inquire with) was It’s Your Birth Midwifery out of Clinton Township. They actually offer both home birth AND birth center options at their Clinton Township location!

Sol Midwifery (Lapeer, MI)

• Home birth midwifery services
• Prenatal and postpartum care
• Website: www.misolmidwifery.com

It’s Your Birth Midwifery (Clinton Township, MI)

• Home birth and birth center options
• Midwife: Jenny Zaner
• Location: 36232 Garfield Road, Clinton Township, MI 48035
• Phone: 866-88-BIRTH (866-88-24784)
• Website: www.itsyourbirth.com

Tiffany Timmins – HypnoBirthing & Childbirth Education (Birthing By Calm)

• Certified HypnoBirthing Practitioner since 2010
• Birth doula services
• Location: 11111 Hall Rd #15, Utica, MI 48317
• Phone: 248-506-8971
• Website: www.birthingbycalm.com

Dr. Nora Zoma – Embody Health Chiropractic

• Webster Technique Certified for pregnancy
• Pediatric and postpartum care
• Location: 2888 E Long Lake Rd, Troy, MI 48085
• Phone: 248-464-7579
• Website: www.embodyhealthchiropractic.com

Michigan MIHP (Maternal Infant Health Program) – Free support services during pregnancy for eligible families. They provide case management, nutrition counseling, and connections to community resources.

Check out our She.E.O Series too. We have a few other maternity-specific businesses we interviewed.

Where to Shop

Birmingham Area – The Somerset Collection and downtown Birmingham have maternity boutiques and wellness stores where you can find many of these pregnancy essentials.

Rochester – Downtown Rochester offers charming local shops, and you’re close to The Village in Rochester Hills too!

Online Options – Most products mentioned are available on Amazon or similar sites with fast shipping to Metro Detroit.

Your Pregnancy Journey Deserves to Be Remembered

These nine months are transformative, challenging, and absolutely worth documenting. Whether it’s your first pregnancy or your fifth, this particular journey, this baby, deserves to be captured beautifully.

We specialize in making maternity photography comfortable and stress-free for expecting moms in Birmingham, Rochester, Rochester Hills, Clarkston, Oxford, and Lake Orion. Everything’s included: professional hair and makeup, a gorgeous wardrobe collection, and a collaborative approach that makes you feel amazing (even if you’re tired, swollen, and wondering if you’ll ever sleep again).

When to Book Your Maternity Session

The ideal time for maternity photos is 24 to 34 weeks. You have a beautiful bump, you’re not too uncomfortable yet, and you still have energy for the session. But honestly? We work with your timeline and comfort level.

What Makes Our Sessions Different

Outdoor, Studio & Boudoir Options – Beautiful Rochester studio with luxe maternity gowns and outfits, or outdoor golden-hour sessions in your favorite Metro Detroit locations

Comfort-Focused – We keep sessions moving, offer seated options, and never make you hold uncomfortable poses

All-Inclusive Experience – Hair, makeup, wardrobe, everything. You just show up and let us take care of you!

Natural, Bright Style – Our editing style is naturally bright and clear, never moody or overly dark

Ready to capture this incredible time? Contact us to reserve your maternity session. We’d absolutely love to work with you!

You’ve Got This

Pregnancy is a wild ride, beautiful, uncomfortable, exciting, exhausting, and absolutely worth it. These products and resources won’t make every challenge disappear, but they’ll help you feel more comfortable, more rested, and more like yourself during these transformative months.

From that game-changing ReliefBand for nausea to the pregnancy pillow that finally lets you sleep, these aren’t just products, they’re solutions that address real problems you’re facing right now.

And when you’re ready to document this journey, we’re here. Whether you’re in Birmingham, Rochester, Clarkston, or anywhere in Metro Detroit, we’d be honored to capture your pregnancy story with maternity photos you’ll treasure forever.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the absolute must-haves for first-time pregnant moms?

Start with the essentials that address your biggest symptoms: a quality pregnancy pillow for sleep and back pain, a nausea solution (like ReliefBand), prenatal vitamins, and comfortable clothing. Don’t buy everything at once, add items as you need them throughout each trimester.

When should I start buying pregnancy essentials?

First trimester: nausea solutions and prenatal vitamins. Second trimester: pregnancy pillow and belly support. Third trimester: focus on sleep solutions and preparing for baby’s arrival. There’s no need to buy everything immediately!

Are pregnancy pillows worth the investment?

Absolutely, especially if you’re experiencing back pain, hip pain, or difficulty sleeping. Even a $45 pillow can dramatically improve your sleep quality and reduce pain. If you’re dealing with severe pelvic issues (SPD), investing in a higher-quality option like the bbhugme can be life-changing.

What helps with morning sickness besides medication?

ReliefBand is the most effective drug-free option (FDA-cleared with 85% success rate). Other helpful strategies include acupressure wristbands, ginger products, eating small frequent meals, vitamin B6 supplements, and staying hydrated. If nausea is severe, talk to your doctor about prescription options.

When is the best time to take maternity photos in Michigan?

Ideally between 28 and 32 weeks of pregnancy. This timing gives you a beautiful visible bump while you still have energy and aren’t too uncomfortable. We can photograph year-round in our Rochester studio, or schedule outdoor sessions during Michigan’s gorgeous spring, summer, and fall months. Winter outdoor sessions are possible too with warm layers and quick timing!

Should I book newborn photos before baby arrives?

Yes! Newborn sessions are best done within the first two weeks after birth. By booking during pregnancy (we recommend your second trimester), you secure your spot on our calendar and we can be ready whenever baby decides to arrive.

Ready to Capture Your Pregnancy Journey?

Expecting in Birmingham, Rochester, Clarkston, or anywhere in Metro Detroit? Let’s create maternity photos that celebrate this incredible time!

Book Your Maternity Session | View Maternity Portfolio | Newborn Photography

Serving families throughout Metro Detroit, Birmingham, Rochester, Rochester Hills, Clarkston, Oxford, Lake Orion, Royal Oak, Ferndale, and surrounding Oakland County areas.