Let’s face it, while many people claim that childbirth is beautiful, the postpartum recovery period afterwards is far from glamorous. Regardless of how you deliver, there are a lot of items that people don’t want to talk to you about. Lucky for you I’m an open book so I’m here to share with you all the things I think will help any expectant mom, first-timer or not, have a more comfortable recovery period after delivery.
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Depends
Now this isn’t something I personally have used before but they are so highly recommended for postpartum bleeding that I think I’m convinced. However, if you’re not a fan of the adult diaper idea, take as many of the large pads and mesh undies as you can from the hospital!
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Breast Pump
First off, whatever you do, don’t pay for this yourself! 9 times out of 10 you can get a breast pump for free with your insurance so make sure you call to confirm what their requirements are. Secondly, if you plan to breastfeed, you absolutely need one of these! I got a Medela when I had Liam but have heard that the Spectra is much closer to hospital grade so I made sure to get one this go round. Again, I haven’t personally used this yet but I know it won’t let me down.
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Nipple Cream
Again, this is a must have for breastfeeding. Let’s just face it, breastfeeding isn’t very glamorous and quite frankly hurts like a mother in the beginning so you will need stock in this stuff! I tried multiple different brands and this was my favorite of all of them. It’s thick (almost like Vaseline) and goes on smooth.
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Breast Pads
Maybe I’m starting to sound like a broken record but if you’re breastfeeding, you will need these! I stopped using these after my supply leveled out but while it was going crazy these were a major life (and shirt!) saver. I did get some reusable ones but I found that I liked the disposable ones better. It’s all just personal preference though.
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Preparation-H wipes
Listen, your body just went through a very traumatic experience and the last thing you want to do is use even the cushiest of toilet paper on your nether regions. Plus, with postpartum bleeding you will want these to help keep you nice and clean.
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Witch Hazel pads
This is another item you can bring home from the hospital but helps your tender lady bits. My first nurse we had when they took me to the postpartum floor told me to use these and to lay them on the pad like I was making a sub sandwich. I know it’s a weird visual but just trust me on this.
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Peri Bottle
They give these out once you get to postpartum so just bring it home with you and, like the wet wipes, this is a necessity to keep things tidy.
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Stool Softeners
Regardless of how you deliver, they will give you these in the hospital to help keep you regular with all of the pain medication they’ll have you on. If you keep taking pain medicine once you get home, it’s a good idea to keep taking these until you’re done.
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Nursing-friendly Pajamas
If you’re having a lot of visitors in the hospital or just want something comfy to lounge in after baby arrives, some comfy new PJs are a must. I grabbed these at Target but they are a knock off of these from Nordstrom. I also love nightshirts like this and this for nursing.
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A large water bottle
You have never known a thirst like breastfeeding thirst! They will give you one of those awesome cups in the hospital but I like my water ice-cold and it melts faster in those cups so I personally love an insulated bottle with a sport cap for easy hydrating.
