Pregnancy can be a joyous occasion, but you can rest assured you'll inherit plenty of maternity aches, pains and surprises along the way. Below are some common discomforts and issues, as well as a few items that are of great assistance during and immediately after pregnancy.

Stretch marks are one of the common war scars of motherhood. While no doctor or maternity expert has the secret to a stretch-free existence, there is an easy solution that tends to minimize the damage. It's been proven that skin able to retain an adequate to abundant amount of moisture will more easily stretch without leaving behind unsightly marks. While not proven to be a cure all, hydrating your skin does seem to reduce the final impact.

A natural stretch oil can help you out in this area, and it can be applied to your belly, hips and breasts before, during and after pregnancy. With all natural ingredients, it won't irritate even the most sensitive of skin.

Expectant moms are usually concerned about their wardrobe, especially after bellies start to expand and all of the fashionable wardrobe pieces get too tight. A BellaBand can help you hang on to your favorite outfits for a bit longer, while also easily transitioning you into maternity fashions. Simply pull the band around your waist with unbuttoned pre-pregnancy jeans, or fit it over maternity clothes that are still just a tad too loose. It's available in a few colors, as well as in both plain and lace designs, causing it to look like a simple camisole underneath your clothes.

Are you still anxiously awaiting your new arrival? A prenatal heart listener allows you to hear your baby's heartbeat whenever you desire, while also providing you with the opportunity to record the heartbeat, or log your own to later play for your newborn during sleep time. While not as effective as what you experience at prenatal visits, this is a fun way to feel closer to your baby and keep up with him or her in between appointments.

Lastly, learn why pregnant women swear by the Snoogle . It's an amazing body pillow that helps expectant moms rest more comfortably, and later can double as an assist during nursing. It's available in a few different colors to help blend into the rest of your home decor, and many women find they hang onto the Snoogle long after their babies have weaned. It's that cozy!

The maternity months are a time to be cherished, so be sure to pick up any products that will bring you comfort and help you to enjoy this special phase of life. The options are endless, and you are only a few mouseclicks away from a totally modern and convenient nine months.