As I progress through my pregnancy, once forbidden conversations about bodily functions become the everyday norm. Other mums suddenly feel the need to offer unsolicited advice about cracked nipples and leaky pelvic floors (apparently trampolines become a big no-no I discovered in the Vogue lift) and the Dads-to-be, well that’s a whole other story. A case in point of the tone-deaf-baby-daddy was demonstrated in all its glory in a recent NCT class, in a pub (don’t ask). During a detailed conversation on perineal massage (warning: do not google at work) and an intense debate over which type of oil to use, I witnessed a birth partner devour a burger in approximately three giant greasy bites, proceeding to then slowly lick his fingers one by one. Burger John (names have been changed to protect identities) authoritatively concluded that olive oil was best. T.M.I. John, but thanks for sharing.

That being said, it is so important to be open about the huge effect that pregnancy has on your body, both positive and negative. Forget gooey goats cheese a glass of red, the thing I miss most about my pre-pregnancy days is the ability to freely get up in the morning without struggling like a dung beetle on its back. My morning routine now sees me tugging the pregnancy pillow from between my legs, sighing deep guttural breaths to conjure the energy to eventually roll onto my side. From here I swing my legs onto the floor with a defiant thud and begin the process of levering myself out of bed. Not the most gracious of wake ups. With all the strides we have made in technology, why haven’t we invented some sort of mini prego crane that lifts you up with ease and grace? Stairs are also becoming a struggle as I hit 32 weeks. Had I not lived in a ground floor flat, I would have seriously considered getting a Stannah Stair Lift installed (not an #AD).

Tech is playing a huge part in helping mums to be and new mums embrace and adapt to all the changes our bodies go through. I for one am game for trying out anything that is going to help me feel myself, make the baby sleep and make my skin glow like I’ve had 10 hours sleep (so not asking for much really).

Here are my go to tech investments to glide us through this life transition:

PUMPING

Cutting-edge British femtech (yes that is a thing) brand Elvie have launched a wireless and completely silent breast pump. It is super discreet and connects to your phone with fuss free smartphone app. You can go about your day pumping away like no body’s business! Available @ https://www.elvie.com/shop/elvie-pump

LIGHTING

Whilst ‘great lighting’ for me was once all about the perfect golden-hour slot at a Fashion shoot or the ambient flicker of a Diptique candle, it is now fast becoming about the baby practicalities. How am I going to get up a million times a night to change nappies and feed? Meemoobaby Meelight clips to your clothing giving out a soothing glow, the sleeping babe goes undisturbed and you don’t have to fumble around in the dark like a mole. Ideal.

Available @ https://www.jojomamanbebe.co.uk/

HANDSFEE

Having your hands free quite simply means you can get stuff done. If you are a Londoner with stairs and no lifts, life sans buggy means you can leave the house without feeling you are planning a military operation.  There are so many slings and carriers out there here are my top two:

Ergobaby Omni 360 Mesh Baby Carrier new born ready, offers various carry positions. Despite what Piers Morgan says Dads can wear comfortably without feeling emasculated. Available @https://www.johnlewis.com

Artipoppe have brought you a carrier that is not only practical but suitably chic, The Zeitgeist Baby Carrier by Artipoppe is a soft-structured baby carrier suitable from birth through toddlerhood. It comes in a variety of atheistically pleasing prints; Yes, by that I do mean leopard print to fuel the spots and dots addiction. Available @ https://artipoppe.com/

PELVIC TRAINING

I go to the gym and pretend to know what I am doing as much as the next person, but until I was confronted with childbirth I never knew how important it was to work on your pelvic muscles. The Elvie trainer is an award winning kegel trainer that helps work your pelvic floor through connecting to an app on your phone which has 5 different strengthening exercises. It is small and subtle so you can use it without anyone knowing. This is great for non preggos too boasting better bladder control and stronger orgasms.

Available @ https://www.jojomamanbebe.co.uk/