Postpartum Essentials
Bringing a new life into the world is a freaking awe-inspiring experience. However it also requires thoughtful preparation as you transition into parenthood (aka the season of surviving as I like to call the newborn stage). Because y’all, PHEW. It’s intense no matter HOW you gave birth. BUT as you embark on the most beautifully raw journey you’ll most likely ever take, equipping yourself with some essential items can help support your recovery, comfort, and care for not only you but also your newborn. Because we need YOU to feel supported, in order to provide the best care for your baby 💕
personal Care Products
After your baby exits your body, your body undergoes a remarkable recovery. It doesn’t matter how you gave birth, your body needs to heal. Essential care products like pads or adult diapers provide comfort and hygiene, while perineal care products like witch hazel pads or sprays can soothe any discomfort. Additionally, nipple cream can be a saving grace for body feeding parents, alleviating nipple soreness and promoting healing. Using warm tea bags (like black or green tea bags) on your nipple helps. The warmth and the tannins in the tea promote healing.
Depends Underwear - I FUCKING LOVED MY DEPENDS. Like holy shit it was a night and day difference in how I felt with everything going on down there. They were so comfortable and it honestly just felt like a hug (as weird as that sounds 😂)
Hemorrhoid anything (cream, witch hazel pads, sit baths, all of it). And laying horizontally so you’re not putting pressure on your hemorrhoids helps as well.
Clothing
Opting for loose-fitting, breathable clothing is seriously essential during the postpartum phase (emphasis on comfortable). Choose outfits that accommodate your changing body and provide ease of movement. Nursing bras or comfortable bras offer much-needed support for body feeding parents, while comfortable underwear (if you’re using pads otherwise Depends works fine) made from soft fabrics can provide gentle care for sensitive areas.
Nursing Tanks - I live in these. Have for the last 6.5 years.
Pajama Pants - If I needed to leave while I was still bleeding and wearing depends, I wore these pajama pants. Otherwise I just walked around in a nursing tank and depends/underwear. #nopantslife
Personal Hygiene Products
Prioritize personal hygiene by selecting gentle, unscented soap for your daily cleansing routine. A peri bottle or squeeze bottle can be invaluable for not only cleansing but easing any stinging that may occur after using the toilet. Don't forget to consider stool softeners or fiber supplements to ease postpartum bowel movements.
Body Wash - For the first few weeks I used the same body wash that I had planned to use for baby. And then when she was a little older (maybe 4 weeks) I went back to my regular body wash.
Peri bottle - whichever one works for you. With my first I used it for like 7 weeks (I had issues with granulomas and healing super small tears) but with my second I used it for less than a week since I didn’t tear. But they are the BEST and make using the bathroom so much more comfortable.
Breast/body feeding Supplies
If you choose to breastfeed, having the right supplies can make the experience more comfortable and convenient. The first 6-7 weeks are the most difficult. It is a STEEP learning curve when breastfeeding but once you have it figured out, it is the easiest thing to do.
Breast pads help absorb any leakage. I recommend disposable pads in the beginning until your milk begins to regulate. The reusable ones typically don’t hold enough and you’ll be going through multiple pairs a day. Nursing pillows like My BreastFriend or the Boppy, can provide support for both you and your baby during feeding sessions. If you plan to pump and store breast milk, a breast pump and milk storage containers are essential additions.
Baby Care Essentials
Taking care of your newborn requires a few essential items. Stock up on diapers and wipes to ensure your baby's hygiene needs are met. Soft onesies, sleepers, and comfortable clothing will keep your little one cozy. Swaddling blankets are useless in my opinion, but if it works for your baby and family, wonderful! If you’re going to have baby specific laundry soap, make sure to wash the entire family’s items in the that laundry detergent. Baby is going to be on your clothes so unless you’re using their specific laundry detergent, it’s a moot point since they’re be rubbed up against the laundry detergent you use.
I recommend soft baby carriers/wraps while you’re still bleeding after your two weeks in bed/your bedroom. After your babe is a little older, a more structured carrier
Postpartum Nutrition aka fucking feed me now
Nourishing your body is crucial for postpartum recovery and breastfeeding. Prepare nutritious snacks and meals in advance if you can, focusing on foods that support healing and provide energy (think warmth, protein, and blood builders). Remember to drink tons of water to stay hydrated, as this is particularly important during breastfeeding.
Water Bottle with Straw - This is similar to one I use. While you’re breastfeeding, drinking AT LEAST 100 oz of water a day is crucial to stay hydrated (preferable a gallon though).
It’s all about you.
The postpartum period can bring about a range of emotions, I mean we all know losing all those pregnancy hormones at once wreaks fucking havoc. But seek support from loved ones, join support groups, or engage in online communities to connect with other parents. If you don’t have a community, find one. It really does feel like our world gets a little smaller after having a baby, and although this time is filled with coziness, snuggles, and lots of diapers, you need to realize you’re more than just a parent and fill your bucket too. Consider keeping a journal or notebook to jot down your thoughts, feelings, and memorable milestones. Explore relaxation aids such as calming teas, essential oils, or meditation apps to promote self-care and emotional well-being.
Remember, you can’t fill anyone’s bucket if yours is empty 😘