Are you getting ready to welcome your new bundle of joy? Congratulations beautiful mama! Like all expecting moms, you are probably asking your friends and family for product recommendations and scouring the internet to get all the baby items off your list. But in the midst of all this, have you forgotten about yourself? What you will need for your postpartum recovery after baby arrives? Today’s blog post is dedicated to you, mama and your well being. I am sharing with your 10 postpartum essentials checklist that I wish I had before I had my baby. There are a lot of things people don’t tell you about postpartum and I wonder if it’s because they don’t want to scare the expecting mom or like, in some cultures, it’s almost inappropriate to discuss something so intimate and personal. So, let’s get to it!
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Postpartum Essentials for Recovery
- FridaBaby Postpartum Kit-is the best on the market and includes everything you’ll need for your bathroom trips. The kit includes the upside down peri bottle which the hospital will give you something similar to use during your stay. This is great for cleansing, its gentle and easy to use. You just fill it with warm water and some people like to add soap and use it to cleanse. The kit also includes disposable underwear, Ice Maxi pads (which provide great relief for your sore lady parts) and cooling Pad liners and healing foam.
- High-Rise Underwear– I saw this Always underwear recommended by many influencers on instagram and after using it now I get the hype. It’s 2 in 1; underwear and maxi pads. You just slip it on and you’re good to go. It’s also comfortable, provides great support and gets the job done without any accidents or leaks. I highly recommend it.
- Epsom Salt– My wonderful nurse recommended this as part of my recovery process. When I got the chance I used this epsom salt in a warm bath, it helps sooth the pain and soreness that accompany you after birth
Breastfeeding Must-haves for moms
- Spectra Breast Pump- Did you know that your insurance can cover the full or partial cost of a breast pump? A friend had shared this tip with me and I am so glad she did, otherwise I would have unknowingly paid for the full price of a breast pump. After researching the many different breast pumps that are on the market, we decided to go with the Spectra S1 pump and I am happy to report that my experience was great when it came to using it. It got the job done, was easy to clean and assemble and most importantly, it didn’t break the bank. Now, if you are looking for a portable, completely hands free pump, I recommend the Elvie Breast Pump.
- Haaka Breast Pump- is a great manual pump for a quick, on the go, pump session.
- Nipple Cream- this is an absolute must, especially in the first month when you’re sore. Applying this before a nursing/pumping session for relief. It truly makes a huge difference in the pain and sensitivity.
- Breastmilk Storage Bags- If you are someone who produces a lot of milk or a mama who will be pumping at work then having breast milk storage bags on hand is important. You can easily seal, date and store them in the freezer
- Hands-free Pumping Bra-I loved using this bra for my breastfeeding sessions and just all around. It’s suitable for Breastfeeding Pumps by Lansinoh, Philips Avent, Spectra, Evenflo and more.
- Lactation cookies and Supplement: If you struggle with milk supply and are looking for ways to increase it, my lactation consultant recommended these two products: the lactation cookies and this supplement!
- Nursing Pads- These are a must for all nursing moms. They absorb so well and protect against leaking
Tips for Postpartum Recovery
Rest as much as you can-It’s easier said than done but try to go to sleep right away when baby falls asleep
Take short walks– not only does this help with your mood but it helps your healing body get back on track
Stay hydrated-this is especially important if you’re breastfeeding/pumping. Keep a large tumbler of water next to your nightstand and a bottle in the baby’s nursery
Eat full meals that keep you satiated-Prepping freezer meals before having the baby can really come into handy, ask friends and family for meals, use a meal-service or have groceries delivered. Just please don’t forget about your nutrition and health.
Take your vitamins-if you were taking prenatal vitamins during your pregnancy don’t stop now! Your body needs them now as much as it did when you were pregnant.
Give yourself Grace- Your body just went through a wonderful but a hard process. Give yourself grace and if you are breastfeeding, be kind and patient with yourself and your baby. It’s a new journey for the both of you 🙂
*Mariham Hanna is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com*
Yes to all of this! Super helpful and all new moms need to read this, you didn’t miss a thing
Great list! Two things I didn’t do with my older two, but I will if I have any more children is to get the high rise underwear (giant pads are no fun) and the Haaka! Thanks for sharing 🙂
I used a lot of nursing pad, breast milk storage bags and epsom salt. Thanks for sharing!