Stocking up on baby clothes and decorating the nursery is fun and you don’t mind doing it. But during that process, you may forget about yourself and your own postpartum needs.
You already know that afterbirth recovery can get messy so a part of you doesn’t even want to get ready for it. But sooner or later, you’ll have to take a trip to the store and grab all the new mom essentials.
I know that they’re not as cute as your baby’s tiny socks but at least they will help your body heal faster and that’s always a plus.
If you’re a first-time mom or if you got way too many things the last time you gave birth, then this list is going to be helpful. Let’s see what are some postnatal must-haves you should stock on and help your body heal after the most important moment of your life.
13 postnatal must-haves for every soon-to-be mom
Giving birth is definitely one of the most physically draining experiences of your life. But at the same time, it’s emotionally priceless.
The moment they put this tiny being onto your chest, you forget about all the pain. As you meet a person who’s been growing inside of you, you realize just how lucky you are. And even though you’re aware that parenting isn’t easy, you’re excited about every stage that comes with it.
Now, if you want to make things easier for yourself, the best thing you can do is to get all the postpartum essentials before going to the hospital. Make sure that you have everything you need so you can focus on your baby and use every second of your time to bond with her once you give birth.
The postnatal period isn’t easy but the following things can make it more bearable and speed up your recovery process. So, here’s everything you need.
1. Pads or even adult diapers
Adult diapers will be your saving grace during those first days after birth, especially if you had vaginal delivery. Even though they’re not cute, they will do a great job of making your postpartum days as mess-free as possible.
I’m sure you already know that after you give birth, you’re going to experience a discharge called lochia. It can be pretty heavy those first couple of days so many women opt for adult diapers to keep everything as clean as possible.
Now, if you don’t like the idea of wearing diapers, then you’ll need to get some pads. In that case, there’s one rule you should follow – go big or go home! The bigger ones you get, the higher the chances that you’re not going to experience any leakage.
2. Witch hazel pads
Those first days (or weeks) after giving birth are going to be uncomfortable. So, to save yourself from any pain or swelling down there, get some witch hazel pads.
Place them on top of your regular pads and let them do their job.
3. Ice pads
All the swelling and bruising can easily ruin your day, so a good idea is to get yourself some ice pads as well. Freeze them before use, place them on top of your pad and you can even add some witch hazel over them.
Enjoy the cooling sensation that will help you with that uncomfortable feeling you’re way too familiar with.
4. Peri bottle
This is going to become your best friend once you realize that you have to use the bathroom for the first time after giving birth. It’s a perineal bottle that’s going to help you with that stinging and burning sensation during peeing.
It’s really simple to use. You just have to fill it with cold or warm water (depending on your preferences) and spray the water around your perineum as you urinate.
Women swear by it and I’m sure you’re going to love it as well.
5. Pain-relieving spray
As you can already tell, pain and discomfort are something that’s going to follow you through your postpartum journey, especially at the very beginning of it.
This pain-relieving spray is going to ease the pain and itching. It’s particularly useful if you have some stitches down there as it’s going to numb the area and make the whole experience more comfortable.
6. Disposable postpartum underwear
Once you give birth, you can forget about your old underwear. You need something that’s going to keep everything in place and something that you’re okay with getting stained.
Postpartum bleeding is a normal part of recovery and it can get heavy. So, your best choice is to get some disposable underwear that you can throw away once they get filthy.
A good idea is also to stock up on some mesh underwear. They’re a great option, especially those first couple of days since they’re easy to put on and take off.
7. Sitz bath and salts
Sitz bath is another thing that’s going to ease your recovery. It’s great at relieving discomfort and pain. Also, it’s a good way to deal with postpartum hemorrhoids.
Just fill your sitz bath with warm (or cold) water, add Epsom salts to it, and soak your pelvic area for 10 to 20 minutes. You’ll enjoy the relief that comes after and I’m sure you’re going to keep on using it on a daily basis until you finally feel better down there.
8. Stool softener
I’m sure that everyone around you keeps telling you how you’re going to hate that first poop after birth. So, naturally, you’re already scared of it even though you have no idea what the experience is going to be like.
Honestly, some women say that it’s not a big deal while others swear that it’s worse than giving birth. Now, I’m sure that we all experience pain and discomfort differently, and in the same way, you have a unique pregnancy, you’re also going to have a unique first post-birth poop.
But to ensure that your pooping experience goes as smoothly as possible, you should get some stool softeners. Just bear in mind that you should first check with your doctor if you’re allowed to use them.
9. Breast pads
Breastfeeding is a process that takes a lot of time and commitment. If you choose to do it, then you’re going to need breast pads. Wow! The sheer amount of pads on this list just keeps on getting bigger.
Anyway, once your milk comes in, you’re going to experience leakage. Sometimes, you’ll feel the milk coming in just by looking at your breastfeeding baby. So, don’t be surprised when you notice milk stains on your shirt.
When you’re at home, you’ll easily replace your top but this can get uncomfortable once you start going out with your baby. That’s where breast pads come to the rescue. They will protect your clothes and ensure there are no visible stains.
10. Nursing bra
If you plan on breastfeeding, a nursing bra is a must-have. Trust me, it’s going to make every feeding ten times easier than with a regular bra.
Simple clip design allows you to free your breasts whenever you need them. You just unbuckle the clip and your baby can get her meal.
Another great thing about these bras is that they often have hidden pockets for breast pads. So, you can be sure that your pads won’t move around or even get out of a bra.
11. Nipple cream
While on the topic of nursing, you should get yourself a nipple cream. I don’t want to freak you out, but your nipples can crack and turn sore from all the breastfeeding.
The best way to keep them in good shape is to get yourself a good nipple cream or a nipple balm, whichever you prefer. This will keep your nipples moisturized and elastic.
If you’re worried about breastfeeding a baby after applying the cream, there are some good, baby-friendly options on the market. So, you can nurse your child even after you’ve just applied nipple cream and you don’t have to wash anything off.
12. Comfy loungewear
Your postpartum period is a time in your life when you’ll want to stay as comfortable as possible. With all these changes happening to your body, you’ll want to wear clothes that are loose and soft. So, the best thing you can do for yourself is get something that fits this description.
Avoid tight-fitting and uncomfortable loungewear that clings to your body. Instead, opt for cotton-like materials that won’t make you nervous. You’ll thank me later!
13. Water bottle
Okay, so this one is an everyday essential but it’s especially important during your postpartum period. During all that chaos of keeping your baby well-fed, and clean and making sure she has enough sleep, you may forget to keep yourself hydrated.
Even though it doesn’t sound like a big deal, it’s way more important than you assume, especially if you’re breastfeeding. Your baby will suck all the nutrients out of you so it’s important not to forget to drink water.
Hydration will also help you with your stool issues, so make sure you don’t skip this step. Carry your water bottle around the house so you don’t lose sight of it. This will remind you to do something small for yourself, even if it means simply drinking some water.
Just make sure to take baby steps and deal with things one at a time. The moment your child was born was also the moment you were born as a mother. So, remind yourself that this is a learning process with a lot of ups and downs. And no matter how you feel right now, you’re the best mom your kid could ask for!
