The time is almost here, and just when you think you’ve stretched as far as you can, you stretch some more. During this time gentle excercise can help increase circulation, reduce muscle fatigue, alleviate cramping and backache, and get your body toned, strong and ready for birth. Following are a few suggestions to pamper yourself and get ready for your new bundle of joy.

belly balms – Oils and balms that contain cocoa butter, wheat germ oil and vitamin E help make the skin more elastic, easing tightness and itching, and possibly minimizing stretch marks.

creams that soothe – To care for sore nipples, look for creams containing almond oil, cocoa and shea butter, jojoba oil, wheat germ oil, calendula and vitamin E.

fenugreek – This herb helps stimulate lactation by promoting the secretion and flow of breast milk.

raspberry leaf tea – Encourages easy childbirth and stimulates milk production. It is important to wait until the last two months of pregnancy to include this tea because of its stimulating effect.