I recently told my friend of all the assorted supplies I’m stocking on for those early postpartum days on Instagram. I’ve nicknamed it my downstairs regeneration station and put things on it such as pads, a spray bottle, and other necessities.
I got quite a few queries and many special requests for blog posts about a specific topic so I composed this one.
A few notes first. Some of the products I have put to use, some I haven’t but they come highly recommended from generous mamas and friends. Everyone has their own approach to postpartum recovery, and everyone’s hospital stay is different. Everything on this list will come in useful for most new moms.
My hospital for example, loaded us up with giant pads, mesh panties, ice packs, a spray bottle, and numbing foam spray. You might get everything you need to get started, but once the hospital stock pile runs down, having your own supply of comfort items will be essential.
Also, everyone’s experience is different and depending on how bad you tore, or how bad your bleeding is, you may need more of less of what someone else might need.
Essential Postpartum Must-Haves For Mom
These postpartum essentials saved my life as a new mother. I have no doubt you’ll be pleased you had them at the same time you appreciated that you were prepared in advance. If you have any suggestions, please get in touch.
Lanolin Nipple Cream
This was a godsend to soothe my sore nipples, and it’s 100% natural and safe for the baby.
Soothies Breast Gel Pads
Store these in the fridge for maximum impact and cooling relief, they help to soothe and heal your sore nipples.
Earth Mama Postpartum Recovery Kit
This kit is safe for pregnancy and postnatal recovery, the spray gives cool comfort for your hoo ha, and helps the swelling, episiotomies, or hemorrhoids.
Earth Mama Nipple Butter
This natural Nipple Butter is a rich, organic nipple cream. It is clinically tested and safe for both nursing mamas and babies – no need to wash it off before nursing – and it’s hospital recommended!
Motherlove Nipple Cream
This is another great natural and clinically tested Nipple Cream, if you’re breastfeeding you can’t have enough nipple cream.
Frida Mom Upside Down Peri Bottle
This is essential, whether you’ve had a c-section or vaginal delivery, you will have limited movement or be too sore. Use this to clean yourself. Fill it each morning and leave it by the toilet, you’ll never use toilet paper again!
Dermoplast
This can be bought from any drug store and will always come in handy.
Maxi Pads
Get two sizes, a bigger one for the early days and one for when your bleeding starts to slow down.
Maternity Panties
You’ll still need your big ol maternity panties.
Lansinoh TheraPearl Packs
Another great product for nipple relief, trust me you’ll want them all.
Depends
These are great for the first few days/weeks when you don’t want to mess with panties and pads.
Tucks Witch Hazel Pads
A must-have for postpartum recovery. They are quick and easy to use. Mommas, if you know, you know…
Nursing Pads
I use these disposable ones, but Bamboobies make great reusable ones.
Water Bottle with Straw
Because it’s easier! And we need to make life as easy as possible for ourselves postpartum.
Comfortable Nursing Bra
My favorite brands are Motherhood Maternity, Kindred Bravely, and Bravado.
Final Thoughts
Adjusting your mind-set when it comes to expecting postpartum recovery will help you to make the most of it. My first postpartum recovery, at least, differed from what I expected.
But, just remember that it won’t last forever! Be kind to yourself, and give yourself a little extra grace during this time. There is no rush to get back to ‘normal’.