Before we get into our discussion on postpartum supplies, let’s talk about MOMS!
New babies are a joy! They’re cute, cuddly and a blessing to a Mom who has just carried that little one from conception to birth. Although their arrival is welcomed, they can consume so much of our time that we often forget about the importance of self-care ourselves. As soon as the baby is born, the shift from taking good care of Mama (for baby), to taking care of baby happens.
The postpartum period can be a very trying stage for both new and seasoned moms. Taking care of yourself is important for your wellbeing but also tp support the healthy growth and development of your baby.
If you’re still pregnant and just starting to think about what happens after your deliver the baby or if you’re a new mom looking for support during your postpartum stage, then this post is for you! In this post, we will discuss must-have postpartum supplies that can make your postpartum experience smoother and easier!
*This post may contain affiliate links. This just means that if your purchase any item using one of my links I may receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you). Read the full disclosure here.
Postpartum: The Baby is Here, Now What?
The postpartum period can be a very overwhelming time for new and even seasoned Moms. There is so much build up during pregnancy and then all of a sudden the baby is here and you’re shifted into the 4th trimester. This time is typically filled with a lot of physical, emotional and mental demands on you.
During pregnancy, many women make self-care a priority, because they are nurturing a baby inside of them. Once the baby is born, however, it is common for the focus to shift, and many moms aren’t as dedicated to taking care of themselves. Rather, the attention is focused on the baby.
As an expecting or new mom, did you give a lot of thought to your postpartum period before the baby was born?
How I Survived the Postpartum Period
In the last couple of months before my pregnancy, I began to read up on and give some more thought to the postpartum period. I didn’t know what to expect or how I should prepare, but I acknowledged the advice of many moms who expressed how important it was to prepare in advance.
Once I got into my postpartum period, I realized just how right they were. Months later, when I actually had time to give it some more thought, I realized just how valuable that advanced preparation was.
Overall, I truly believe that my postpartum phase was so pleasant because I had a lot of help from my husband, I prepared in advance and I had several specific postpartum supplies that helped me to navigate those first few months a bit easier.
In this post, I will share more about the postpartum preparation and supplies that helped me those first few months, in hopes of helping you to have a smoother postpartum experience.
The Beginning of my Postpartum Journey
My daughter was born by emergency c-section, after labouring for several days and making very little progress. I had less than 10 minutes notice to process that I would be having a c-section. It was like I got the news, and then a short while later, it was done and my daughter was here.
All of a sudden I was postpartum, and had to think about caring for both my daughter and myself. Because I did not know I would be having a c-section, I wasn’t sure how my recovery would go considering that I had not done much preparation for c-section recovery.
The day following my c-section I was discharged, and my husband arrived to pick us up and bring us home. During that first ride home, I was already wishing I had some awareness that a c-section might be in store because those bumps were painful! Later, I discovered that holding a pillow over my incision brought some relief and minimized pain. You can read more about that, and more c-section specific preparation in this post.
Recovery
The first week was rough. I was sore, taking pain killers and had trouble moving on and off the bed without help. All of this while recovering from the delivery and taking care of my daughter. Thankfully, my husband was by my side the entire first week and was very helpful. I was also happy that I had done a good deal of preparation beforehand, in terms of meal prepping, cleaning and organizing the house and stocking up on postpartum supplies. This made things a lot more manageable.
Gradually, week by week things got a bit better. By one month postpartum I felt fairly good, considering the eventful delivery that I had.
Thankfully, I had constant reminders to take it easy and to take care of myself. I was reminded of the important of self-care, even while caring for my little one. Especially because I was caring for my little one.
Even though I felt okay, it was still important to remember that I was still recovering from major abdominal surgery and an antepartum hemorrhage. I’m grateful for that guidance now because how you take care of yourself during that time can have lasting implications for your health and wellness. This is the best advice that I can offer you as a new mom in her postpartum period, regardless of what kind of delivery you have.
The Right Postpartum Supplies: They will make or break your journey!
12 Postpartum Supplies for a Smoother Recovery
Postpartum Prep #1: Fish Oils (Omegas)
Most doctors will advise you to continue taking your prenatal vitamins or switch to a postnatal vitamin after delivering your baby. One also mentioned the importance of consuming fish oils during this period.
Fish oils pack many benefits for both during and after pregnancy. These healthy fats promote heart health and healthy brain function. One very important advantage is that studies show that it can reduce symptoms of postpartum depression.
You can absorb these important nutrients from fatty fish such as salmon or sardines, or take a supplement. I took prenatal DHA capsules throughout my pregnancy and continued during my postpartum period. Afterward, I switched back to regular over the counter omega supplements.
Postpartum Prep #2: Drink Water
Water is essential for your recovery and is definitely important in terms of postpartum habits and supplies. It helps to get rid of toxins, decreases swelling and sodium, and aids in the production of breast milk.
Particularly in those first few days when your digestive system is backed up and you need help making those first few bowel movements as smooth as possible (pun intended), water is extremely beneficial.
What helped me to drink a lot of water was to keep my “Mom Tumbler” full and constantly near me. Whenever it was empty I would fill it up and keep it within hands reach. That was a great visual reminder to constantly be drinking throughout the day.
I loved this tumbler set that my husband and I received as a set as a shower gift.
Postpartum Prep #3: A Belly Binder
For both a vaginal and caesarian delivery belly binders are highly recommended. This belly band was a life saver during my recovery, I used it for several months.
I started wearing one three days after my surgery and can I tell you what a difference it made compared to the first few days. It helped my stomach to feel less wobbly, made my back to feel more secure which made getting up and moving around to a lot easier and I noticed that it decreased the pain associated with cramping postpartum.
Getting off of the bed was particularly painful in the beginning, and my belly binder really helped to minimize the soreness around my incision when making these moves. The compression also helped to get my tummy to shrink down quite quickly.
I wore it in the vehicle and it made those dreaded bumps so much easier. Same with laughing, coughing and sneezing which if you’ve had a caesarian I’m sure you know feel horrible in this first couple weeks. I bought one off of Amazon and it worked really well for me.
For some other post c-section essentials, check out this post.
Postpartum Prep #4: Disposable Underwear
I actually fell in love with how easy these disposable underwear made my life. I hated those huge bulky postpartum pads. They never stayed in place, bunched up and I just felt uncomfortable.
Instead, I barely felt these disposable underwear. The fact that I could just pull them on and not worry about them moving around made things a breeze.
My favourite were the always discreet brand. They come in different colours and fit really comfortably. As funny as I felt when I first bought them, they were high up on my essential postpartum supplies list!
Postpartum Prep #5: High Waist Underwear
When my bleeding tapered off I switched from disposable underwear to high waist underwear. Basically fitted granny panties (LOL), the snugger the better!
They weren’t the sexiest underwear I have ever owned, but they were certainly comfortable.
Particularly for c-section mamas you’re going to want some comfortable breathable high waist underwear that sit well above your incision. To find out why, check out this post.
I’ve linked two brands that I used. I loved how secure they made my wobbly postpartum belly feel. They kept things smooth for me, even when I wore my belly binder under my clothing.
I would definitely recommend them to both c-section mamas and those who have had vaginal deliveries and want to feel a bit more supported.
Postpartum Supply #6: Nipple Pads (Cloth and Disposable)
These are a must have if you’re breastfeeding, and if you don’t plan to, they are still helpful in those first couple of weeks before your milk dries up.
As a breastfeeding mama, you will soon learn that leaking can happen anytime and anywhere in those first few months. Sometimes I would be freshly showered in a new outfit and look down and see liquid marks all down my top. Don’t even talk about if my baby started crying!
I alternated between disposable nipple pads and cloth nipple pads. Disposable nipple pads are amazing for when I was out of the house and wanted something I could stash in my purse, and change and then throw away.
Cloth nipple pads I preferred for at home. When they were soaked I could just throw them in the washer and reuse.
These two supplies became just as important as my nipple butters. My favourites were Lansinoh and Earth Mama Organics.
Postpartum Prep #7: Nursing Bras
Nursing bras will become oh so important for nursing mamas. They make breastfeeding much simpler: Anything that helps you to whip your breast out quickly for a screaming baby will become your best friend.
You will be living in nursing bras as long as you’re breastfeeding and you’ll want ones that are comfy yet supportive.
I bought two different kinds: The Hofish brand 3 pack from Amazon and was not disappointed. They offered me a great deal of support and look good under clothing.
Hands down my favourite type of nursing bras were double pumping nursing bras that allow you to pump and do whatever else you need to do with your hands. I’m using one as I type right now! Lol.
If you’ve read my post on increasing your milk supply, available here, you know that I’m all for anything that makes pumping seem less like a chore, so be sure to grab a couple of these so that you can pump hands and stress free.
Postpartum Prep #8: Eat Well
I struggled with what to eat postpartum, especially after the freezer stash of food I had prepared in my third trimester ran out. My goal was to eat well for my daughter, but I was starving all the time because I was breastfeeding. Sometimes what is convenient and easy, isn’t always the healthiest.
After some trial and error, and a few boxes of cookies (lol), I came to the realization that whole grains and protein were my friends. They helped me to stay full longer, didn’t create a blood sugar spike and therefore kept me well nourished throughout the day.
These food groups seemed to cause the least issues when it came to breastfeeding and causing gassiness or stomach issues for my daughter.
Some of my go-to whole grain items were whole wheat crackers with cheese, wholegrain toast with jam and oatmeal.
I ate lean proteins like chicken breast, tilapia and thin cut pork chops with my favourite salads and side dishes.
Postpartum Prep #9: Bio Oil
Your skin changes after pregnancy, especially on your stomach, hips and thighs. After my belly shrank down quite a bit, I still noticed that my skin felt very stretched and was dry, which of course is understandable after delivery. What I found helped with this (and helps with stretch marks I hear) is a product called Bio Oil.
Bio Oil is a skincare solution that helps to get rid of scars, blemishes and discoloration. It is great for revitalizing skin.
I put a thin layer on my tummy and hips after each shower and was amazed at how my skin looked rejuvenated, moisturized and healthy just weeks after my delivery.
Postpartum Supply #10: “Rebalance” postpartum hormonal drops
Your hormone levels literally drop as soon as you have your baby, and at a very quick rate. This creates all sorts of changes and reactions in your body. It can also have a profound effect on your mood, energy level and affect.
I was mindful of how this drop could impact me and my ability to take care of baby. I regularly practice techniques to promote good mental health, but I knew the sudden drop in hormones was beyond my control.
After hearing great things about Wishgarden products, I decided to try their natural product that is advertised to help balance postpartum hormones.
Rebalance is a tincture that you add to water or take directly in mouth. I used it 2-3 times per day in my water in the first few weeks postpartum. Do your research and see if it may be a good option for you as a natural aid.
I encourage anyone who is having a difficult time managing their emotions, particularly if you’re feeling anxious, depressed over very overwhelmed for a period of time, to seek the guidance of your doctor or a mental health professional.
Be sure to check out the full range of Wishgarden products for pregnant and postpartum moms. I have linked a few below:
Postpartum Supply #11: Lactation Teas
I am a tea person! I loved being able to drink a tea that helped to increase my breast milk supply. These were good hot or cold, and had a mild taste. My favourites were Milkmaid tea by Earth Mama Organics and Mother’s Milk tea by Traditional Medicines.
Postpartum Prep #12: Coconut Oil
The final item on my list is one that I hadn’t seen on any postpartum necessities list but I found very helpful.
I was careful not to put anything on my skin that may be toxic or contain chemicals for my baby. I struggled with which creams or lotions I could use, and finally did some reading on coconut oil.
Coconut oil has so many benefits and is completely safe for baby, which I loved. I used this as my skin moisturizer after pregnancy and haven’t looked back. It was even great on baby’s skin as a moisturizer or diaper rash barrier before introducing other baby products.
As a final bonus I used it in foods to boost my milk supply. Try it in your salad dressing, smoothies or other dishes. You can read more about that here.
My favourite is Kirkland brand organic virgin coconut oil.
Final Thoughts on Postpartum Supplies
The postpartum period can be a very taxing time for moms.
Preparation can go a long way to make your journey smoother and easier. I hope you’ve found this post helpful, and it has given you an idea of how you can prepare for the journey ahead.
Self-care is so important, particularly when you have just given birth and have a little baby to take care of. Your well-being not only helps them, but taking steps to ensure your health and wellness promotes holistic health for you as well.
For more on self-care and some unique ideas to spice up your self-care routine, check out this post!
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