Pregnant on a Budget (if You Don't Have Beyonce's Bank Account)

At MTV's VMAs last Sunday, Beyonce slyly announced her pregnancy by unbuttoning her jacket and rubbing her noticeably enlarged belly.  Given that Beyonce and husband Jay-z ranked number two on Forbe's list of World's Highest Paid Celebrity Couples, they won't be worrying about hand-me-downs or diaper deals for their progeny.

For those of us in the real world, however, pregnancy can be a financial strain even while being a joyful event.  As such, we've dug into the Blog & Save archives to bring you expert advice on how to save money during your pregnancy.

While Beyonce will probably continue to be outfitted in designer duds (no word on whether her House of Dereon clothing line will be "expanded" to include maternity wear...), for most women staying fashionable while pregnant can stretch the limits of family budgets while their blossoming bellies stretch the limits of their pre-pregnancy wardrobes.  Savings.com DealPro Alison Gary breaks down her top ten maternity clothing must-haves and Amy blogged about Forever 21's maternity line being an affordable option for frugal fashionistas.

Mom of two and Savings.com team member Susan offered up ten tips for being pregnant on a budget which includes ways to save money on pre-natal vitamins and stretch mark cream.  Speaking of stretch marks, beauty blogger Jordania blogged about Victoria Beckham's secret weapon in avoiding them during her pregnancy.

While alternately fighting off morning sickness or hormonal cravings, Susan lists foods to avoid while pregnant--which will not only promote a healthy pregnancy and baby, but will help save money as well. 

She also had a list of five obscenely expensive baby products--some of which might just end up being gifts for Beyonce's baby shower.  On a more fiscally responsible note, Susan offers up some of the hospital freebies a new mom can expect come "labor day."

Do you have any suggestions for saving money during pregnancy?  Add your two cents in the comments!