Essential Products for the First Few Weeks Postpartum
Once the pain meds wore off and the adrenaline of labor died down, I began to really feel the effects of what my body had gone through. I had a 2nd-degree tear after a vacuum-assisted vaginal delivery, and my next few weeks of healing were not going to be easy.
I was told by the women in my life what to expect, but for some reason, I didn't mentally prepare myself for the reality of postpartum healing. I had almost daily Amazon deliveries with items that I did not even think to stock up on. I wish I had spent more time focusing on my healing and being present with my baby instead of worrying about ordering extra maternity wear or cooling pads.
My goal with this post is to set up other mamas with the products and knowledge so your healing does not run you over like a freight train. I felt prepared for my baby, but not prepared for the physical and mental healing I would need those first few weeks.
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1. Comfort and Recovery Essentials
The first few weeks after delivery, I was in a lot of pain. The hospital sent me home with a bag full of cooling pads, but that was nowhere near the amount that I would end up needing. At first I would buy a box at a time of the popular brands, which work really well. But it became more expensive as my first week went on.
I ended up finding a brand that held a lot more in the box, and they were cheaper per pad. Medline Premium Perineal Cold Packs felt cooler than the more expensive brands and allowed me to have one less Amazon delivery during the week.
The TUCKS Medicated Cooling Pads are hands down the best option. I tried a few other brands, but I would go back to this one again. It was the perfect pairing with the foam spray and cooling pads for relief.
The Frida Mom Witch Hazel Perineal Healing Foam saved me during the painful weeks of healing. It was an instant cooling feeling that gave me moments of peace. I think I had to order about 3 bottles to get me through postpartum. If there was ever a moment when I was going to be sitting for long periods or leaving the house, I would make sure to use this foam for extended relief.
This became necessary for over two weeks after my baby was born, so I think it is important to have one that works well. The one that the hospital gives you will work just fine, but I preferred the convenience of the Frida Mom Upside Down Peri Bottle. It held the perfect amount of water and helped me gain my independence when using the bathroom.
P.S. Make sure to use warm water if you don't want an unpleasant shock to your system.
Comfortable Postpartum Underwear
There are many brands that you can choose from, but honestly, I only found consistency with Frida Mom 8pc Postpartum Underwear (if you pair with cooling pads) and Always Discreet Adult Diapers for Women (if you prefer something less bulky to wear out of the house).
Both of these brands made me feel supported and kept me feeling clean. It can be one of your more expensive purchases depending on how long you wear them, but it's worth it to feel more put-together. The cheaper options do not last long and can, unfortunately, cause some leakage.
2. Breastfeeding Support
Nursing Bras/Pumping Bras
I bought the 4HOW Pumping Bra and iloveSIA Nursing Bras. I bought these brands after they were recommended to me by my cousin, and I can say that I wish I had bought more right out the gate. I felt the perfect amount of support, and they were an affordable option, so I could easily buy more to have on hand.
I can only speak to having them for a few months, but so far, they have gone through many washes and allow me to buy multiple sets so I can wear a clean one every day.
On top of everything else I was going through, I guess I did not realize the impact that breastfeeding would have on my nipples. I was cracked and bleeding about two days after I started breastfeeding. The Earth Mama Organic Nipple Butter was my ticket for relief. It's in a small container, and a little bit goes a long way. I wish I had had this on my nightstand ready to go as soon as I got home.
Breast Pump & Pump Parts
My insurance covered a breast pump up to $200, and when I went to search their inventory. I was very overwhelmed. I see a lot of people using the wearables and often hear mixed reviews on their effectiveness. I chose the Spectra - S1 Plus for its overall reviews of effectiveness, and that it was rechargeable. I linked the version with the bag because I wish I had prioritized how I was going to travel with my pump in the beginning. If you are the type to feel trapped when you are in the house too long, make sure you don't make it harder to leave for extended amounts of time.
My insurance sends replacement parts every couple of months, but I wish I had had extra on hand when I first got home from the hospital. One of the last things I wanted to do was wash the parts in the first few days. Not a necessity, but Amazon has some Spectra replacement parts linked here.
Nursing Pads
At home, I never really used these and proudly wore any leak stains during my early postpartum days. But don't put yourself in a situation in public (especially wearing light colors) that can cause other people to have wandering stares. Try these Organic Nursing Pads that I recommend,
as they are reusable.
4. Self-Care and Ease of Life
Comfortable Loungewear
I lived in loungewear for about 3 weeks. Soft, loose clothing makes it easier to move, rest, and breastfeed. Double points if they are easy to breastfeed in!
My biggest regret was not making sure that I had more on hand just to save me some loads of laundry.
Staying hydrated is crucial, and having an easy-to-use bottle encourages constant hydration. Prior to being pregnant, I used the Owala water bottle. It is a perfect postpartum option and encourages a constant intake of fluids.
Healthy (or unhealthy) Snacks
A grocery store trip right before your delivery is essential to make sure you have everything you could want to snack on. Newly postpartum is a great time to feel a little less guilty about your snack choices.
If you prefer healthier options and don't want to spend a fortune on a 4-pack of "organic" oatmeal bars, I have recently crafted some homemade recipes that I will share in some of my upcoming posts!
Overall Lesson
I learned a lot of hard lessons postpartum, but one of my failures was prep. If I could do it differently, I would have everything I could possibly need ready and easy to access. Postpartum shouldn't have any added stress; focus on yourself and prepare for your healing!
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