Early Pregnancy Essentials: What to Have on Hand in the First Trimester

Some of the links in this post are affiliate links which means I earn a small commission if you purchase or book through my link, at no extra cost to you.

---

Early pregnancy — especially the first trimester — can be joyful, strange, and scary, often all at the same time.

Some people feel excited straight away and jump into shopping for the baby, imagining nurseries, and sharing the news with everyone. Others feel cautious and overwhelmed, unsure whether to do anything at all.

Whichever place you find yourself in, it’s okay.

Before thinking about baby clothes or nurseries, though, it can be helpful to focus on something simpler: taking care of yourself during this vulnerable time. Having a few early pregnancy essentials on hand can make a real difference.

Being prepared isn’t pessimism, and it isn’t jinxing anything. It’s a way of making potentially difficult moments feel more manageable – reducing stress and helping you feel a little steadier if things feel intense or unexpected.

And realistically, most of the items on this list are things you’ll likely buy sooner or later anyway. There’s no harm in starting slowly, now.

Quick disclaimer

Before we dive in, a quick note: I’m not a medical professional, and this article isn’t medical advice. Everything I share here is based on my own experience.

If you’re unsure about anything, or if something doesn’t feel right, contact your midwife or GP. Be cautious with online advice, especially during an already vulnerable time.

Early Pregnancy Checklist: Essentials for the First Trimester

What are some must-buy essentials in early pregnancy?

If you’re wondering what essentials to have on hand during pregnancy, or which items are truly must-buys early on, this checklist covers the basics that tend to make the biggest difference.

A. Physical comfort & hygiene

• Large maternity sanitary pads (avoid tampons or cups due to a higher risk of infection)
• Regular menstrual pads (often more comfortable than maternity pads and usually more than enough)
• Comfortable underwear (under-bump maternity briefs from Primark are my latest discovery)
• Period underwear (useful for spotting or increased discharge)
• Unscented wipes
• A peri bottle (mine is from Frida Mom – highly recommend)
• A hot water bottle or heat pad (use with care and avoid placing it directly on your belly; check with your doctor if unsure)
• Pregnancy-safe pain relief (I keep paracetamol on hand, but always follow medical guidance)

B. At-home care items

• Thermometer
• Prenatal vitamins (ideally started early; folic acid is especially important)
• A reusable water bottle (it quickly becomes your best friend)
• Easy-to-digest snacks (particularly helpful when nausea or morning sickness hits)
• A notebook or notes app for symptoms or questions (it’s much easier than trying to remember everything later)

C. Practical logistics

• Important phone numbers saved (GP, early pregnancy unit, midwife)
• A transport plan if you don’t drive (knowing how you’ll get to appointments in advance reduces stress)
• Childcare back-up, if relevant
• Basic household supplies topped up (grocery delivery services and online shopping can make this much easier)

D. Emotional comfort & support

• A comfortable place to rest (I’ve basically been living on my couch for the past 2.5 weeks)
• Something familiar or soothing (a cosy book, a favourite series, music you love)
• Someone you can message if you need to talk (early pregnancy can feel heavy or lonely very suddenly, and having someone there can make a real difference)

FAQ

When should I start buying essentials for my baby?

Whenever you feel comfortable. Personally, I prefer to start buying baby essentials after the 12-week scan, but there’s no right or wrong timeline.

What pregnancy hacks helped you most during the first trimester?

Keeping crackers hidden around the house. They’re especially helpful when morning sickness hits and eating feels difficult.

What should be the first thing on the list to buy when you’re pregnant?

Prenatal vitamins with folic acid. The NHS recommends 400 micrograms of folic acid daily before and during early pregnancy.

When should I announce my pregnancy?

This is entirely personal. Many people wait until 12–13 weeks, once they’re out of the first trimester. Others share earlier. I tend to tell close family quite early — sometimes as early as five weeks — because having support matters if things become difficult.

Closing Words For Early Pregnancy Essentials

One thing I want you to remember is that most early pregnancies progress normally. Just because you — or someone you know — experienced a loss doesn’t mean it will happen this time.

Taking care of both your present and future self isn’t a bad thing. Being prepared won’t change outcomes, and it isn’t jinxing anything. It simply means that if things do get difficult, you’ll feel more supported, more grounded, and less panicked.