accordingtoapril on LTK

POV: You're 25 weeks pregnant via IVF and just found out your official risk category 😭 Medium-risk classification 1. daily baby aspirin 2. prenatal vitamins 3. walking + weights + Pilates 4. managing anemia 5. brand new restless leg symptom The only downside? Nobody tells you restless leg can show up out of nowhere, even if you didn't have it with your first pregnancy. If that's you, you're not alone. I'm sharing this in real time, week by week, not looking back after the fact, so this is the actual experience as it's happening. Is this relatable? If you're pregnant via IVF or navigating a big gap between kids, yes. If this is your first pregnancy with no gap for comparison? Your experience might look totally different. Search AccordingtoApril on YouTube for the full pregnancy update 🔍 LTKBaby LTKBump LTKmomlife

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Welcome to my LTK!

Follow for weekly reviews, recalls and must haves!

#LTKFamily #LTKKids #LTKActive

My full weekly pregnancy fitness rotation. 5️⃣ pieces of equipment- that’s it 🏋🏾‍♀️

Walking pad daily, elliptical on backup days, yoga mat for stretching, dumbbells two days a week, plus prenatal Pilates and yoga three days a week.

Here is what I’m not going to say or do regarding pregnancy fitness:
✔️ This isn’t about intensity, it’s about consistency, especially if you’re new to working out while pregnant ✔️ Getting the rest you need matters just as much as the movement itself ✔️ This routine isn’t just for pregnancy, it’s building longevity for labor and postpartum recovery too

Fitness during pregnancy doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. I’d rather have five pieces I actually use than a home gym I don’t.

#LTKBump #LTKfitnessgoals #LTKmomlife

I had to downgrade my dumbbell weight while pregnant, and I’m not embarrassed about it 🏋🏾‍♀️

Pre-pregnancy, I was lifting 7.5 pounds. Right now, that’s too heavy on my back; I’m back down to 5️⃣5.

Here is the thing about pregnancy 🤰🏾
✔️ If you’ve never lifted before, start with 2- and 3 lb weights; that’s genuinely where beginners and Pilates girls should live ✔️ The 5 lb range is closer to a barre workout weight, not a strength-training weight ✔️ My husband’s PowerBlock goes up to 90 lbs, and during pregnancy is not the time to become a powerlifter

This is for anyone pregnant who feels like they’re “regressing” with their weights; you’re not; you’re just being smart.

#LTKfitnessgoals #LTKBump #LTKOver40

I'm 26 weeks pregnant, and this is the only workout equipment I'm still using every day 🏋🏾‍♀️

I broke my walking into three short sessions, instead of one long walk I'd never actually finish.
☀️ morning
🌤️ afternoon
🌙 after dinner

But let’s get into the ☕️ about fitness and pregnancy 🤰🏾
✔️ My pace dropped from 3.0–3.5 to 2.0–2.6, and that's not a step back; that's what pregnancy actually calls for ✔️ You need the app to adjust speed in fine increments; the pad alone only moves in bigger jumps ✔️ Walking late in pregnancy isn't just "staying active”; it's actively helping position the baby for delivery

If you want low-impact movement you can actually do without leaving the house, this is for you.

#LTKBump #LTKmomlife #LTKfitnessgoals

Why did my ultrasounds suddenly stop after my IVF transfer? 🤰🏾

Nobody prepares you for the jump from weekly IVF monitoring to general OB visits.

But here’s what nobody tells you:
😳 Once you get that positive beta, you’re in weekly, watching progress in real time, it’s reassuring in a way general OB care just isn’t.
👩🏾‍⚕️ Once you move into general OB care, you might not get another scan until 10, 11, or 12 weeks, right as you’re leaving your first trimester.
📌 IVF does get you a couple extra ultrasounds compared to a spontaneous pregnancy, but it also comes with a higher risk of needing induction or other interventions.

This is for my IVF moms specifically; that gap in scans is nerve-wracking, and you’re not imagining it.

#LTKBump #LTKBaby #LTKstorytime

Pregnant at 40 and couldn't use retinol anymore? Same 🥳
I knew I couldn't use my regular retinol products once I found out I was pregnant, and I needed an alternative that could still address lines and texture.
But here's what nobody tells you:
Not every retinol swap on the market is actually pregnancy-safe.
This one is built around Japanese silk extract instead of an active ingredient.
It's a splurge, but I've never had a single breakout layering it under everything else in my routine.
This is for my older moms who want real skincare results without the guesswork.

#LTKBump #LTKBeauty #LTKBaby

Why is everyone switching to Black Girl Sunscreen right now? 🧴
Once I got pregnant, melasma and dark spots became a real concern, so daily SPF stopped being optional for me.
But here's what nobody tells you:
The mineral sunscreens that claim to be "gentle" are usually the ones leaving that white cast.
I've never had this come off or rub away, even with makeup on top.
It doesn't feel heavy, and there's no fragrance to trigger sensitivity.
This is for anyone with melanated skin who feels like sunscreen just isn't made for them.

#LTKBump #LTKBeauty #LTKselfcare

I'm 23 weeks pregnant, and my skin has never been this itchy, that's a new milestone! 🤰🏾

7️⃣ years ago, during my first pregnancy, I don't even remember dealing with this. This time, I finally cracked the code with a routine that keeps the itch at bay.

Want to know my secret? 👂🏾
🤰🏾Every pregnancy is totally unique, your skin can react differently each time.
🧴Scratching might feel good short-term, but it only makes the dryness and itchiness worse in the long run.
🥳The real solution? A consistent routine tailored to you.

I'll show you exactly what I use and how I do it.

#LTKBump #LTKBeauty #LTKmomlife

I ranked the 4 body oils I’ve actually used this pregnancy 🥳

Bio-Oil, Vaseline Aloe Oil, Palmer’s Cocoa Butter, African Pride — I’m currently using all four, and the results were not what I expected.

But here’s what nobody tells you:
My “expensive feeling” pick, Palmer’s, has actually been too drying for my skin.
Vaseline Aloe Oil quietly became my everyday #2 — it’s affordable, and it works.
African Pride is the most intense formula, but it’s strictly an emergency-only product for me.

If your skin needs fast absorption with zero grease, Bio-Oil is the one.

#LTKBump #LTKBeauty #LTKmorningroutine

Let me show you exactly how much Bio-Oil you actually need🧴

I put a small amount on my hand so you can see the real coverage, because this is genuinely one of the most talked-about products in the pregnancy skincare space right now.

But here’s what nobody tells you:
🤏🏾A little goes a long way, this is not a product you need to overuse.
👃🏾The scent is light, which makes it easy to use daily without it being overwhelming.
📸It’s known specifically for scar and stretch mark prevention, not just general hydration.

I’ve seen celebrities and other influencers use this consistently, and now I understand why.

#LTKmomlife #LTKBump #LTKBeauty

My real daily body oil rotation during pregnancy 🧴

I don’t use just one oil; I use three, depending on the day and what my skin actually needs.

But here’s what nobody tells you:
🟠Bio-Oil is my everyday favorite — after every shower, before bed, always.
🟢Vaseline is my backup for the really itchy days, or when a too-hot shower leaves my skin extra dry.
⚪️Palmer’s is for when I need something fast that I know I’ll reapply multiple times throughout the day.

It’s not about picking a favorite and sticking with it! it’s about matching the product to what your skin needs that day.

#LTKBump #LTKPetite #LTKselfcare

Discover the diaper bag everyone’s talking about — and it’s only $75! ⬇️

I put four popular diaper backpacks to the test, from $75 to $199, and the results genuinely blew me away. Brands like Skip Hop, Petunia Pickle Bottom, Beis, and Mina Baie — all thoroughly examined.

Here’s what most people don’t realize:
💰 The best bang for your buck goes to Skip Hop at just $75.
👗 The Mina Baie Emmy Vegan stands out in style — truly in a league of its own.
💵 Spending more doesn’t automatically mean better fit for your needs.

Choosing the perfect bag depends entirely on what’s most important to you as a parent.

#LTKTravel #LTKBaby #LTKBump

Is a $199 diaper bag actually worth it? ⬇️
I compared 4️⃣ diaper backpacks — from $75 all the way to $199 — and the results genuinely surprised me.

But here’s what nobody tells you:
🙅🏾‍♀️Price does not always equal function
🙅🏾‍♀️The most stylish bag is not always the most practical one
🙅🏾‍♀️And the budget option might be smarter than you think
The right bag depends entirely on YOUR priorities as a parent.

#LTKBaby #LTKKids #LTKBump

The CuboAI might be the smartest baby monitor on the market right now 👇🏾

At $299, it packs 2.5K QHD video, AI face & rollover alerts, danger zone detection, and even built-in growth tracking, all in one device.

But here’s what nobody tells you:
📲You need to be app-committed to get the full value out of this monitor.
⚡The danger zone and AI features require setup time; it’s not plug-and-play simple.
📈Growth tracking is automatic, but only as useful as how consistently you use it.

Best for parents who want a tech-forward, all-in-one smart monitor and don’t mind a learning curve.

#LTKBaby #LTKKids #LTKBump

Is a $399 high chair actually worth it? 👇🏾

I’m halfway through my pregnancy, starting from scratch on baby gear after 7 years, and the high chair world is a whole wild ride.

But here’s what nobody tells you:
💵Price range spans $133 to $399, that’s a $266 difference for the same function
❌Not all high chairs are built the same, and the features vary wildly
✅The “best” one isn’t always the most expensive one
🏡The right pick comes down to your home, your lifestyle, and your budget.

#LTKKids #LTKBump #LTKBaby

A $399 rotating high chair...is this the future of baby gear? 👇🏾

This 360 high chair is blowing my mind, you can spin baby from the table to the TV to wherever you need them. I’ve never seen so many 360 products hitting the market.

But here’s what nobody tells you:
💰At $399, it’s the most expensive on the list; and that price is real
It only comes in 2️⃣ color options, which limits your choices
Light colors look gorgeous but are brutal to keep clean with a baby 😩

If aesthetics and versatility matter to you, this chair delivers.

#LTKBaby #LTKBump #LTKKids

A $133 high chair that converts into 8 different things? 👇🏾

The Wayfair high chair is making a serious case for itself, especially for families who need flexibility without breaking the bank.

But here’s what nobody tells you:
It’s an 8️⃣-in-1️⃣ that converts to a booster seat strapped to a dining chair
🪑🪑The double seat cover design is genuinely smart, one washes while one stays in
✈️It’s lightweight and travel-friendly, perfect for small spaces or grandparents’ homes

If budget is your priority, this one is hard to beat at $133.

#LTKBaby #LTKBump #LTKKids

But here’s what nobody tells you:
🙅🏾‍♀️not all carriers offer real lumbar support—some are just padded straps.
🤰🏾Your birth experience may influence postpartum back support needs.
2️⃣As a second-time mom, my body reacts differently, and mine already is.

Best for moms with back issues, older moms, or IVF moms needing more than style and price.

#LTKBaby #LTKBump #LTKKids

Discover the ultimate baby carrier, no buckles, no snaps, just pull it on easily!

Priced at $99, this carrier is perfectly tailored for newborns, making it your go-to choice in those early months.

But here’s the inside scoop:
It supports up to 25 lbs, so you’ll eventually need a second carrier.

The no-buckle design simplifies your life—less to figure out during those late-night, frantic moments with a crying baby.

It offers a stretchy, wrap-like feel without the intimidating learning curve.

Ideal for moms seeking maximum simplicity during the hectic fourth trimester.

Comment CARRIER below, and I’ll send you the full details directly to your DMs 📩.

#EmbraceCarrier #NewbornCarrier #BabyCarrier #BabyGear #newmom

Apparently I’m a pottery person now 🏺

#LTKvlog #LTKdayinmylife #LTKstorytime

🚨 Recall Monday Alert! 3 new baby product recalls just dropped — and they’re serious.

🔥 Baby loungers that pose entrapment and fall risks
🛏️ Crib mattresses that violate federal safety standards
🍼 Self-feeding pillows linked to suffocation and aspiration

These products were sold online — including on Amazon — and they might be in your home right now.

⬇️ Here’s what to look for:
✔️ BBWOO Baby Loungers (sold on Amazon)
✔️ KEAWIS Crib Mattresses (Yixing Trading)
✔️ Greatale Self-Feeding Pillows

📌 Follow so you never miss a recall update

Source: @uscpsc

#LTKBump #LTKBaby #LTKKids

🚨 Recall Monday Alert! 4 new baby + kid product recalls just dropped, and they're SERIOUS.
🚪 Safety gates that can cause deadly entrapment 🛏️ Crib bumpers that violate federal safety bans 🛁 Bath seats linked to drowning risks 👶 Baby loungers with fall and entrapment dangers
These items were sold on Amazon and in stores nationwide, and they might be in your home right now.
⬇️ Here's what to look for: ✔️ BabyBond Retractable Safety Gates (Infant Innovations) ✔️ SARO Braided Crib Bumpers (Kalencom Corporation) ✔️ NFSVLB Baby Bath Seats (Amazon) ✔️ Joyful Journeys Baby Loungers
📌 Make sure you're following so you never miss a recall update 💬 Comment RECALL and I'll DM you the full list
Source: @uscpsc

#LTKKids #LTKBump #LTKBaby

🚨 Recall Monday Alert! 4 DANGEROUS baby + kid product recalls just dropped—and they're serious.
🍼 Soother clips that can cause choking and cuts
👗 Children's costumes with toxic chemical exposure
🚶‍♀️ Baby walkers linked to deadly falls and entrapment
🛁 Bath seats that violate drowning prevention standards
These items were sold at Primark and on Amazon—and they might be in your home right now.
⬇️ Here's what to look for:
✔️ Primark Little Bear 2-Pack Soother Clips (choking/laceration hazards)
✔️ SKCAIHT Children's Costumes (via SKCAIHT Direct on Amazon - phthalate exposure)
✔️ Uuoeebb Infant Walkers (via BaoD on Amazon - fall/entrapment risks)
✔️ YCXXKJ Baby Bath Seats (via BenTalk on Amazon - drowning risk)
📌 Make sure you're following so you never miss a recall update

#LTKBaby #LTKmomlife #LTKKids

5 Christmases taught me which gifts last vs. get donated by March 📦
I've tracked what my son STILL plays with years later versus what ended up in donation piles. Some survivors have made it through 3+ Christmases!
🏆 PROVEN WINNERS:
• Bubble Blower- Christmas 2022, still in heavy rotation
• Favorite Show Toys- 3 Christmases running, never gets old
✨ NEW PICKS FOR 2025:
• Drums - hits every pattern of our long-term winners
• Mathlink Cubes- extends play value of existing toys
❌ WHAT ALWAYS GETS DONATED:
• Single-use novelty items
• Too many electronics
• Age-inappropriate complexity
My rule: If it encourages creativity, grows with development, and doesn't drive parents insane - it's a keeper!

YOUTUBE: ACCORDING TO APRIL

#LTKGiftGuide #LTKHoliday #LTKKids

Before buying last-minute holiday gifts... 🎁
Here's the game-changing question that saved me $200 last Christmas:
✅ "Will my kid still play with this in February?"
If you hesitate even for a second — don't buy it.
I tested this with every gift last year. The ones I questioned? Donated by spring. The ones I felt confident about? Still favorites today.
Bottom line: Trust your gut. That hesitation is your wallet (and your sanity) trying to save you from toy clutter.
More proven gift winners dropping Saturday! What's your best last-minute gift rule? 👇🏾

Holiday Tech Guide ! 🔧
I tested 8 new last-minute holiday gifts with my kids this week. Here's the quick breakdown:
🎁 Half of them? Donated by March (ouch!)
🏆 But these 4 winners? Still being played with daily - and one $15 gift outlasted the $80 one!
Full honest reviews dropping Saturday - which last-minute gift does your kid want most? Comment below! 👇🏾

#LTKHoliday #LTKGiftGuide #LTKKids

Recall Monday Alert! DANGEROUS crib bumper recall just dropped, and it's serious.
💀 Crib bumpers that can cause suffocation and death
This item was sold by Little Pea Shop and might be in your home right now.
If you have any crib bumpers, remove them immediately - they're federally banned for a reason.
⬇️ Here's what to look for: ✔️ Little Pea Shop Crib Bumpers (ALL styles are recalled and banned)
📌 Make sure you're following so you never miss a recall update
Source: @uscpsc

#LTKKids #LTKBaby #LTKBump

Recall Monday Alert! 5 DANGEROUS baby + kid product recalls just dropped, and they're ALL serious.
💤 Baby loungers that violate federal sleep safety standards
🚪 Safety gates with deadly entrapment risks
These items were ALL sold on Amazon and might be in your home right now.
If you have any of these, stop using them immediately.
⬇️ Here's what to look for:
✔️ Alinux Baby Loungers (sold by Winkids)
✔️ Macardac Baby Loungers
✔️ Ikuso Safety Gates
✔️ Sofoliana & Glotika Baby Loungers (sold by Bosen US)
✔️ Convertible High Chairs (sold by Rotinyard)
📌 Make sure you're following so you never miss a recall update

Source: @uscpsc

#LTKCyberWeek #LTKHome #LTKKids

Before your next family trip ✈️ Pack backup sticker books AND a portable charger! Learned this at 30,000 feet when everything died 😭 This combo = flight saved! More hacks Saturday!

#LTKTravel #LTKHoliday #LTKKids

Recall Monday Alert! 3 DANGEROUS baby + kid product recalls just dropped, and they're serious.

🛏️ Baby loungers that violate federal sleep safety standards
🪜 Learning towers with fall hazards

These items were sold on Walmart and Amazon and might be in your home right now.

If you have any of these, stop using them immediately.

⬇️ Here's what to look for:
✔️ Bearlala Baby Loungers from Walmart.com
✔️ Little Partners Grow N Stow Learning Towers
✔️ Play Yards from Anna Queen on Amazon

📌 Make sure you're following so you never miss a recall update

Source: @uscpsc