Postpartum Essentials for Mom and Baby

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Childbirth can be rough on a woman’s body. And while you may be prepared for all the needs of your coming little one, it’s just as important for the mom to take care of herself while she heals from childbirth.

I’ve had 4 vaginal births all of which were unmediated so I’m going to share with you all of the products (or something similar) to what I used after my births. I don’t have any experience with cesarean sections so I don’t have a ton of advice for that recovery.

I will say, if you think you might need it go ahead and get it you’ll thank me when you’re awake at 3 am so thankful you have that specific item that makes postpartum recovery/breastfeeding just a little bit easier.

RECOVERY

Maxi Pads – Buy the big ones. After a vaginal birth, there’s a lot of bleeding and shedding of the uterine lining. Large absorbent  maxi pads are ideal for at least the first few days. You may also want to make padsicles that offer cool relief for your sore bottom.

Sitz Bath – Your bottom will likely be sore, and a sitz bath will offer relief. I like the Sitz Birth Sitz Soak. Sitz baths are also great for hemorrhoids.

Peri Bottle – I always had some tearing down there that needed to heal after childbirth, and a peri bottle filled with warm water helped ease the burning when I needed to use the bathroom. Some people prefer the angled head of the Fridababy Fridet Mom Washer.

Witch Hazel Wipes – Witch Hazel wipes help clean and soothe sore bottoms after birth.

Cold Packs – I mentioned Padsicles earlier which you can make a home by using this padsicles tutorial. Or you can buy TendHer Feminie Cold Packs which are similar to those used at the hospital.

Comfortable Underwear – Get the granny panties. You can throw them away after you’ve healed but you just want as much comfort as possible.

Stool Softener – Going to the bathroom for the first time after child birth can be difficult and constipation is common. Take a stool softener like Colace to help keep things moving.

Pain Relieving Spray – If you have stitches, you will want to get Dermoplast Pain Relieving Spray.

Motrin – Motrin is a breastfeeding-safe pain reliever that will ease your aches and cramps so you can rest when you get the chance. *I’m not a doctor so check with yours if you have concerns.

Belly Band—I’ve heard from friends who have had C-sections that a belly band helps with healing. Even if you didn’t have a C-section, a belly band can help with healing and recovery after pregnancy.

BREASTFEEDING

Nursing Bra – If you plan to breastfeed you already know you will need nursing bras but you will also need sleep nursing bras. Boobs leak, especially at night so wearing a comfortable nursing bra to hold nursing pads in place is a must. No one likes waking up in a puddle of milk.

Nursing Pads – Like I said, no one likes waking up in a puddle of milk. I always preferred reusable nursing pads like Bamboobies over the disposable ones, they are generally more comfortable.

Nipple Cream – The WishGarden Nipple & Repair Salve did wonders for my tired and cracked nipples. I had a difficult time breastfeeding several of my boys and this stuff was a life saver. I used it even with the one baby that breastfed like a champ.

Nipple Shield – Sometimes breastfeeding can make your nipples sore, cracked and bleeding… even if you have a good latch. Using a nipple shield can help alleviate some of the rawness and protect your nipples during non-stop feeding sessions.

Boob Ice Packs – As your breasts begin to produce an abundance of milk (like day 3 or 4) they may become swollen and sore. Ice packs are a great way to get relief. Bamboobies Soothing Therapy Pillows are great for cold or hot treatment.

Breast Pump – When your milk comes in you may want to pump and store some of the over abundance of milk you produce. You might also need to pump to relieve over production. A good breast pump can bring relief for milk filled boobs.

Nursing Pillow – It can be a challenge to get a good position and hold while nursing your new baby. A good nursing pillow will act as a second pair of hands so you can focus on getting a good latch.

Mother’s Milk Tea – It can take a little while for milk to come in so drinking a tea that helps increase your milk supply can be very beneficial. Traditional Medicinal Mother’s Milk Tea is great organic tea that increases milk supply.

Nursing Nightgown – Middle of the night feedings are much easier with a good nursing nightgown.

And finally the one things I think all moms need is help. Don’t be afraid to ask for help, it’s a huge transition to have your first child. Your body is healing, your hormones are all over the place, and you have a tiny human you have to keep alive. There is no shame in asking for help from family and friends.