Congratulations, you’re knocked up! One of the wonderful things about having a bun in the oven is “that” glow. Unfortunately it doesn’t kick in until around week 13 when your blood volume increases along with those loving baby hormones.

Fortunately for those in what seems like the never ending, nauseating T1, there are some ways to fake it until you make it through to T2.

Here’s a handy cheat sheet of five things to get you through with a faux glow until the real thing kicks in:

1. Brush it on – So, you’re pale, pasty and not feeling well. Fake a gorgeous glow with a brush of blush or bronzer to make you look as though you’re there already. Lash out and treat yourself to a new blush and apply on the apple of your cheeks with a sweep on the top of the forehead and under your chin. A tiny bit of pearly sheen all over or shimmer strategically placed helps you look radiant even if you’re not feeling it.

2. Clean it up – Doing some maintenance on hair, teeth and skin now will pay dividends later. Keeping your hair and skin clean will make you look and feel better. Exfoliate two to three times a week to reveal new, plump skin cells. Teeth can take a battering in pregnancy as the baby draws the calcium from mum’s teeth and bones, so regular brushing and flossing is a must. Carry a toothbrush with you to freshen up, just in case you’re caught out on the run with a bout of morning sickness.

3. Pop it – Morning sickness has to be the worst thing about T1 – you should be excited about being pregnant, but can’t summon up any enthusiasm thanks to constant nausea. There are lots of anti-vomit remedies, but the problem is everyone is different, so what works for me (continual biscuit consumption, Cookie Monster style) may not work for you. Try ginger, aromatherapy, peppermint, hot chips, icy poles, licorice or whatever gets you through. It’s only for a short time and right now it’s more important to feel OK than anything else.

4. Cover it – Imagine if sunglasses weren’t invented, how would we cover up the evidence of a bad trimester? Slip on your shades to cover bloodshot, weary eyes and a not so perfect complexion. The right frames (right now big & black, aviators or with touch of bling) say super stylish. Shout yourself a new pair – you will get your money’s worth when they will be working overtime on hot mammas in T4.

5. Deflect – Take the focus off your sallow skin and onto your decolletage with either a traffic-stopping signature necklace or a cleavage showcase. From about six weeks there will be a boost to your bust which can be framed in lower cut neckline – try a cross over or deeper v-neckline to show off your natural assets while they last!

For five more tips on how to fake it until you make it to T2, visit http://pregnancypanache.com.au/