The natural approach

Feeling better
Blackmores provide a range of products to help care for you and your baby through pregnancy and beyond. Blackmores Pregnancy & Breast-Feeding Gold was developed to provide 17 essential nutrients, including 10 vitamins, 6 minerals, and omega-3 fatty acids. It is recommended during pregnancy as well as when breastfeeding. (45 tabs $23, 120 tabs $47.50) Blackmores also do Folic Acid, to help minimise the risks of birth defects (90 tabs $14), and Morning Sickness Formula to help relieve vomiting and nausea. It includes vitamin B6 at the dose used in clinical trials where severe nausea and vomiting were signiicantly reduced. (90 tabs $17.50)

The homeopathic touch
Naturo Pharm homeopathic remedies work together and with your body to help you cope naturally. Morningmed Relief helps support your body's natural response to nausea during pregnancy. Pre-Birth supports normal muscle tone and promotes natural childbirth - start using it 15 days before your due date. Once labour has started, Birth-Aid helps support natural childbirth and normal recovery from the trauma of birthing. Take it during labour, delivery, and for two to three days following your baby's birth. ($18.35 each in oral spray or tablet form)

Sweet dreams
Lie back and let the Sweet Dreams Pregnancy Sleep CD from Earth Mama Angel Baby guide you to total relaxation and some much-needed quality sleep. With bonus tracks "Pregnancy Rise and Shine" and "Energy Boost", this CD will help you make the most of your rest, and feel all the better for a good night's sleep. A great gift for a weary friend, or treat yourself. www.earthmamaangelbaby.co.nz for stockists)

All-round support
One of the best-selling multivitamins for new and expectant mums, Elevit is proven to reduce the risk of neural tube defects, including spina bifida. It contains key essential nutrients including 800mcg of folic acid, as recommended by the Ministry of Health, along with 10 other vitamins and seven minerals including iron. Stock up, as this all-in-one supplement is recommended for use before, during and after pregnancy. (www.elevit.co.nz or call 0800 847 874)