Your Midwife-Approved Pregnancy & Newborn Care Guide

We know that pregnancy, birth, and those first precious weeks with a newborn are an incredible journey, often filled with big changes and a few head-scratchers along the way. Sometimes it can feel a bit overwhelming, but don't worry - we're here to help.

This guide is packed with practical advice and handy tips to support you through all the big (and little!) moments of pregnancy and early parenthood. From body changes and birth prep to breastfeeding and baby’s first bath, real advice from real midwives, with products developed to support every stage. We're with you every step of the way, helping to make navigating early parenthood a little clearer and easier for everyone.

Body Changes During Pregnancy

Pregnancy brings big changes, physically and emotionally. While exciting, it can also be challenging. Remember, you’re growing a whole new human! Be kind to yourself and take time to care for your body and mind. Here, we'll explain what you can expect and how to help ease any symptoms.

Aches & Pains

Relaxin, a pregnancy hormone, helps stretch muscles and ligaments, which, alongside your growing bump, can lead to back pain and posture changes. To help ease symptoms use a supportive pillow, gentle exercise, and rest often.

Skin & Bump Changes

As your bump grows, your skin may feel dry or tight. Moisturise daily to ease discomfort and help prevent stretch marks. Try My Expert Midwife Stretch Mark Serum — safe for use throughout pregnancy and postpartum.You might also notice a dark line (linea nigra) on your bump, this is completely normal and fades after birth.

Itchiness

Mild itchiness on your bump and legs is common. Wear loose, breathable clothing and moisturise daily. If you experience itching on your hands or feet, speak to your midwife, as it could signal a condition like obstetric cholestasis which is a liver disorder that can occur during pregnancy.

Dizziness

Heat and hormonal shifts can make you feel light-headed. Rest often, stay hydrated, and avoid standing for too long. We would always recommend contacting your midwife if symptoms persist.

Swelling

Swollen feet or ankles are normal in later pregnancy. Elevate your feet when resting and ask for a gentle foot massage to support circulation.

Morning Sickness

Morning sickness, often hitting during the first trimester, can be really tough. To help ease the nausea, try eating little and often, focusing on bland foods, and getting plenty of rest when you can. Many find that ginger, lemon, and peppermint can offer some relief. The good news is, for most people, those queasy feelings tend to settle down by 12–16 weeks.

Breast Changes

Tender, growing breasts? That’s your body preparing to feed your baby. Invest in a comfortable, supportive bra.

Sleep & Tiredness

Hard to get comfy at night? Use extra pillows (especially between your knees), stay cool, and reduce screen time before bed.

Quick Everyday Tips:

• Stay hydrated (especially in warm weather)

• Eat little and often to avoid dizziness

• Use SPF to protect against pigmentation

• Moisturise daily to ease dryness and itchiness

• Start your pelvic floor exercises now

• Be kind to yourself — you’re doing a great job

Preparing Your Perineum for Labour

Many women naturally worry about tearing during birth, but there are simple, effective ways to prepare and reduce the risk. The perineum, which is the area between your vagina and anus, stretches during labour and is a common site for tearing. To help make this area more flexible and resilient, you can start perineal massage from 35 weeks, using products like My Expert Midwife’s Peri Prep Your Bits.

Why Peri Prep helps:

• Boosts elasticity

• Improves circulation

• Softens old scar tissue

• Builds body awareness

• May reduce need for an episiotomy

Our top tip for Birth: Ask your midwife about using a warm compress during labour to support your perineum.

Perineal Healing Tips (Post-Birth):

• Keep clean: shower daily and change pads often

• Use My Expert Midwife’s Spritz for Bits for soothing, cooling relief

• Take paracetamol or ibuprofen as needed

• Stay hydrated and eat fibre-rich foods to avoid constipation

• Rest and begin gentle pelvic floor exercises when ready

• Contact your midwife if you notice pain, odour, or unusual discharge

Breastfeeding: Real Talk, Reassurance & Nipple Balm

Breastfeeding can be a truly rewarding part of new motherhood, offering incredible benefits like antibodies and health boosts for both mum and baby. However, it can also be challenging, with everything from sore nipples to tricky latching. Remember, it's completely normal if it doesn't come naturally at first – it's always okay to need support.

Tips from Midwife Charlotte:

• The Golden Hour: Skin-to-skin after birth helps baby’s instincts kick in

• Talk to others: Peer support is powerful

• Learn ahead: Books, antenatal classes, and online groups can help

• Use nipple balm: My Expert Midwife’s No Harm Nipple Balm is 100% natural and safe before, during, and after feeding

• Find local support: Baby Cafés, La Leche League, and drop-in groups are a great place to start, speak to your community midwife and health visitor.

• Ask your midwife: Infant Feeding Teams may offer extra guidance

• Be kind to yourself: Colostrum is enough in the early days. Trust your body and give yourself time.

“Breastfeeding is a journey, and like any new skill, it takes patience, support, and time. You’ve got this.” - Midwife Charlotte

Baby’s First Bath: Why Waiting is Best

Midwives now recommend waiting 24–48 hours before the baby’s first bath to help preserve their microbiome, a natural shield of healthy bacteria on their skin.

Protecting Delicate Skin

Avoid harsh soaps early on. Use a gentle, midwife-developed wash like My Expert Midwife’s Mega Mild Cleansing Wash, made with:

• Calendula

• Marshmallow root

• Oatmeal

Fragrance-free, dermatologically tested, and suitable for all skin types (including eczema-prone).

Newborn Skin-care Heroes

My Expert Midwife’s Dribble Defence

Stops sore skin caused by teething, weaning or illness-related dribble. Perfect for chins, cheeks, and neck folds.

• 99% naturally derived

• Fragrance-free

• Paediatrician approved

• Lightweight and breathable

My Expert Midwife’s Bum Balm

Soothing, protective barrier balm for every nappy change.

• 100% naturally derived

• Suitable from birth

• One-handed pump for fuss-free use

• Paediatrician-approved

Key Ingredients:

• Medical-grade lanolin – heals and protects

• Calendula – soothes irritation

• Coconut, almond & sunflower seed oils – nourish and moisturise

Final Thoughts

Pregnancy, birth, and the early days of parenting are full of big moments and little challenges. Our goal is to walk alongside you with real midwife advice, practical tips, and products you can trust, all designed to make your journey gentler. You’ve got this, and we’re right here with you - the Midwives at My Expert Midwife.Don't forget, we're here to support you every step of the way! Grab everything you need for your pregnancy journey, and find all your maternity and new baby essentials from Morrisons online or at your local store.