Have your beauty routines changed during pregnancy?
"I'm lucky to be a big fan of Bioeffect, so I almost exclusively use their products. It's been a relief not to have to try a lot of new products during a period when one's skin is undergoing many changes. I've had full faith in one brand, and it has made my beauty routine simpler."
How do you feel about your pregnant body?
"Generally, I've felt good, but there have been periods where I've struggled to accept how my body has changed. I've been a little sad because I look different, and I've had to get used to the transformation. For example, I find it hard to reconcile myself with the fact that my formerly flat backside has now become more voluptuous – and I must admit, twerking has never been more relevant to me! However, my arthritis in my lower back has prevented me from being as flexible as before. My breasts have also changed a lot, and even though I try to embrace it, it has been a challenge. It's also strange when your clothes no longer fit, and the outfits you're used to suddenly don't work. The masculine and oversized look that I usually love has been difficult to style for my pregnant body. Therefore, I've worn a lot more dresses and skirts in recent months. However, I look forward to being able to wear my hoodies and boyfriend jeans again. Conversely, I have also felt incredibly sexy, and that is largely thanks to my boyfriend. He has been really good at telling me how beautiful he thinks I am, and not just on the bad days. I am very grateful for his support, and it has helped me to accept my body in its change."
Do you exercise during your pregnancy?
"In the first trimester, I didn't have the energy to exercise because I felt too unwell. When I reached week 12, I was unsure if it was okay to use my rectus abdominis muscles, so I searched online – but it quickly became clear that that was a bad idea. In the second trimester, I tried pregnancy Pilates, but I didn't feel like I got what I wanted out of it. Everyone talks a lot about postpartum exercise, but I've missed finding the right form of pregnancy exercise. It would be fantastic if someone created it. In the first part of the third trimester, I've been exercising at home with dumbbells, resistance bands, and my own body weight, but for the past couple of weeks, I haven't had the energy for it. However, I make sure to move daily, as I'm lucky to have a dog that requires a walk."
What considerations have you made regarding diet and supplements?
"I've followed the recommended advice on vitamins and supplements and have otherwise eaten healthily and varied. But also a bit too unhealthily at times – canned whipped cream has been a favorite! I've really listened to my body and had a relaxed approach to food and drink, without restrictions. Perhaps I did make a slight exception at the beginning of the third trimester when my boyfriend noticed how much Faxe Kondi I was drinking. There's just something special about it when you're pregnant!"