12 Must-Have Postpartum Essentials for Moms: What You Really Need After Birth
You probably have a whole room of stuff that’s for the baby. But what do YOU need after birth? Here’s a list of some of the most used items that I used after the birth of my two babies. And don’t just take it from me, the items listed below have been raved about by many of my clients too.
Undercarriage Care
Frida Mom Disposable Underwear
These are great for vaginal delivery and C-section moms. They are soft, stretchy and way more comfortable than the underwear that the hospital provides. I also like them because they are not as bulky as postpartum “diapers.” And trust me, you don’t need to be doing more laundry than necessary in the first week after delivery.
Honeypot Postpartum Pads
These are ideal for moms who’ve delivered vaginally, but a few of my C-section clients also have mentioned that they LOVE the herbal cooling sensation that these pads give. They also have wings, which I prefer for the early days when bleeding is heavier.
More Postpartum Pads
You are going to need a variety of sizes and absorbency pads for the first six weeks or so after giving birth. I recommend stocking up now, so you have everything you need. Stash them away in multiple places, so you you aren’t caught without. I also HIGHLY recommend getting organic cotton pads because I have seen some clients have issues with the typical brands, like Always. I prefer Rael or Cora brands. Honeypot, which is mentioned above, is also good.
Upside Down Peri Bottle
I promise you this version of the peri bottle is so much more helpful. Just get one. Or two. This is perfect for gently cleaning yourself after going to the bathroom. A pro tip is to make sure you have warm water to fill up your bottle before sitting down on the toilet.
Unscented Epsom Salts
This is great for pregnancy and postpartum. Epsom salt has magnesium which is essential for calming the mind and relaxing muscles; so I like this for pregnancy baths and so for postpartum foot soaks and sitz baths.
While I’m on the topic, sitz baths are the unsung hero for moms who are experiencing hemorrhoids and/or are healing from perineal tears after birth. The warm water and other healing additions, like epsom salts or herbs, all work together to increase blood flow to the area to encourage healing. This is also a nice gentle way to cleanse the area and it just feels so nice! (Check out my resources page to see how to do a sitz bath.)
Herbal Body Mist
This is a many-purpose herbal body mist that’s perfect for all moms, no matter how you deliver. The spray can help heal and soothe C-section scars, perineal trauma, and hemorrhoids. Bonus tip is to spray it on your pad before pulling up your underwear, or add a little bit to a sitz bath for an easy way to get a herbal soak.
Boob Care:
MotherLove Nipple Butter
I truly believe this is one of the best nipple butters on the market. The ingredients are great quality, and the blend of herbs will actually work to heal sore, chapped, nipples. I like to get a few of these so I have one handy wherever I am, including one on my nightstand, in the diaper bag, and one in the nursery.
Bamboobies Nursing Pads
These nursing pads are great for leaky boobs, but what I love about them so much is how soft they are. They are also easy to wash. They come in different patterns and absorbancies.
Haakaa Ladybug
This is a passive milk collector that you can slip into your bra to catch any leaks or let downs you have. That way you don’t waste any precious milk and also avoid a mess. The reason why I love this product so much is because it doesn’t have a suction, so it won’t inadvertently create an oversupply of milk and your body will know just how much milk to make for your baby.
Nursing Bras and Tank Tops
If you are planning on breastfeeding your baby, make it easy on yourself and get a few nursing bras and tank tops. There are lots on the market, but the nursing bra that’s linked above seems to be a fan-favorite. It is easy to wash, has a sewn-in padding, and is super affordable. Nursing tank tops are also great. I haven’t found a specific brand that’s better than another.
Manual Breast Pump
This may be the least sexy thing on this list, besides the pads, but I PROMISE that you will use this. A hand pump is so helpful for those times you just need to pump real quick and don’t want to bust out all the parts and pieces of your pump. I also find that I’m able to pump more milk out quicker with my hand pump. If you are delivering in the hospital ask them for a hand pump to take home with you. Just make sure to get your perfect flange size once you get home. (Check out my resources page to see how to find your flange size.)
General Healing
Bandage Belly Wrap
Belly wrapping after delivery provides gentle and even support to the core muscles. Belly binding is believed to help the uterus return to its normal size and is a commonly used practice in postpartum care traditions from around the world. It also aids in oxytocin production and digestion.
Splurge Item: Silverettes
This is by no means a required item, but I had to mention it because I love my Silverettes so much. The silver naturally helps to heal any nipple damage and I also love them because, if you’re like me and need to use a lot of nipple butter, they contain the oils a bit to keep the mess down. They also come in two different sizes in case you have larger nips. :) Don’t waste your time on knock-off brands.
——————————————————————
I hope that helps you feel a little bit more prepared for when baby decides to make their arrival. Put these things on your registry, or take yourself on a little shopping trip to Target and treat yourself! You deserve all the care and love too - don’t forget it!
