Giving birth is an amazing and life-changing experience, but it also comes with some challenges and discomforts.
Whether you had a vaginal delivery or a C-section, your body will need some time and care to heal and adjust to the postpartum period. That’s why it’s important to have some postpartum essentials on hand to help you recover faster and more comfortably. These are products that can ease your pain, soothe your soreness, prevent infections and support your overall well-being.
In this article, we’ll share with you 15 postpartum essentials that you’ll need for recovery, based on the recommendations of experts and experienced moms. We’ll also tell you where you can find these products online from 4aKid, the trusted online baby shop since 2007 that offers a wide range of baby and toddler products, including postpartum care items.
Here are the 15 postpartum essentials you’ll need for recovery:
Peri wash bottle: A peri wash bottle is a squeeze bottle that you can fill with warm water and use to gently rinse your perineal area after using the toilet. This can help keep the area clean and prevent infections, especially if you have stitches or hemorrhoids. A peri wash bottle can also provide some relief from itching and burning sensations. One of the best peri wash bottles on the market is the Frida Mom Upside Down Peri Bottle1, which has an ergonomic design that allows you to spray upside down without spilling or leaking.
Sitz bath: A sitz bath is a shallow basin that fits over your toilet seat and allows you to soak your perineal area in warm water with salt or herbs. A sitz bath can help reduce swelling, inflammation and pain, as well as promote healing and blood flow to the area. A sitz bath can also help prevent constipation and urinary tract infections. One of the best sitz baths on the market is the Soothic Sitz Bath1, which has a comfortable design that fits most toilet seats and comes with a free bag of natural Epsom salt.
Cold packs: Cold packs are disposable pads that you can freeze and apply to your perineal area to numb the pain and reduce swelling. Cold packs can also help with hemorrhoids and vaginal tears. You can use cold packs for the first 24 to 48 hours after giving birth, or as needed for comfort. One of the best cold packs on the market is the Medline Perineal Cold Packs1, which are soft and absorbent pads that provide instant cooling relief without needing a freezer.
Donut cushion: A donut cushion is a circular pillow with a hole in the middle that you can sit on to relieve pressure and pain from your perineal area. A donut cushion can also help with hemorrhoids, anal fissures and tailbone pain. You can use a donut cushion for as long as you need to feel comfortable while sitting. One of the best donut cushions on the market is the Frida Mom Perineal Comfort Donut Cushion1, which has a soft and durable fabric cover that is easy to wash and store.
Maxi pads: Maxi pads are thick and absorbent pads that you can wear in your underwear to catch the bleeding and discharge that occurs after giving birth. This bleeding and discharge, called lochia, can last for several weeks and vary in color and amount. You’ll need to use maxi pads instead of tampons or menstrual cups during this time, as these can increase the risk of infection and interfere with healing. One of the best maxi pads on the market is the Amazon Basics Extra Heavy Overnight Maxi Pads with Flexi-Wings1, which are long and wide pads that offer maximum protection and comfort.
Disposable underwear: Disposable underwear are stretchy and breathable panties that you can wear instead of your regular underwear during the postpartum period. Disposable underwear can provide more coverage and support than regular underwear, and can also hold your maxi pads or cold packs in place. Disposable underwear can also save you from having to wash stained underwear or worry about ruining your favorite pairs. One of the best disposable underwear on the market is the Frida Mom Disposable Postpartum Underwear, which are soft and seamless panties that are designed to fit your changing body.
Nursing bra: A nursing bra is a bra that has clips or flaps that allow you to easily access your breasts for breastfeeding or pumping. A nursing bra can provide comfort and support for your breasts, as well as prevent leaks and stains on your clothes. A nursing bra can also help you avoid mastitis, a painful infection of the breast tissue that can be caused by clogged ducts or bacteria. One of the best nursing bras on the market is the Kindred Bravely Nursing Sleep Bra, which is a wireless and seamless bra that is made of soft and stretchy fabric that adapts to your changing shape.
Water bottle: A water bottle is a must-have for staying hydrated during the postpartum period. Drinking enough water can help you with milk production, constipation, urinary tract infections and skin elasticity. It can also help you feel more energized and refreshed. A water bottle can also remind you to drink water regularly, especially if you have a busy schedule or tend to forget. One of the best water bottles on the market is the Reduce Tumbler with Straw, which is a stainless steel tumbler that can keep your drinks cold or hot for hours. It also has a straw lid that makes it easy to sip without spilling.
Remedy for constipation: Constipation is a common problem after giving birth, especially if you had a C-section, used pain medication or iron supplements, or have low fluid intake or activity level. Constipation can cause discomfort, bloating, gas and hemorrhoids. To prevent or treat constipation, you may need a remedy that can help soften your stools and stimulate your bowel movements. One of the best remedies for constipation on the market is MiraLAX Laxative Powder, which is an osmotic laxative that works by drawing water into your colon and making your stools easier to pass.
Pain reliever: Pain reliever is a medication that can help reduce pain and inflammation in your body after giving birth. You may experience pain in your abdomen, perineum, breasts, back or head due to contractions, stitches, engorgement, muscle strain or hormonal changes. Pain reliever can help you feel more comfortable and relaxed, as well as improve your sleep quality and mood. One of the best pain relievers on the market is Amazon Basic Care Ibuprofen Tablets, which are nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) that can relieve mild to moderate pain and fever.
Nipple cream: Nipple cream is a product that can help moisturize and heal your nipples if they are sore or cracked from breastfeeding or pumping. Nipple cream can also help prevent infections and reduce friction and irritation. Nipple cream can be applied before or after feeding, and some are safe for your baby to ingest. One of the best nipple creams on the market is Lansinoh Lanolin Nipple Cream, which is a 100% natural and hypoallergenic cream that soothes and protects your nipples.
Nursing pads: Nursing pads are absorbent pads that you can wear inside your bra to catch any leaks of breast milk. Nursing pads can help you avoid wet spots and stains on your clothes, as well as prevent infections and rashes on your nipples. Nursing pads can be disposable or reusable, depending on your preference and budget. One of the best nursing pads on the market is Bamboobies Washable Nursing Pads, which are soft and eco-friendly pads that are made of bamboo rayon and cotton.
Robe: A robe is a comfortable and versatile piece of clothing that you can wear during the postpartum period. A robe can keep you warm and cozy, as well as provide easy access for breastfeeding or pumping. A robe can also help you feel more confident and stylish, especially if you have visitors or take photos with your baby. One of the best robes on the market is the Ekouaer Maternity Robe, which is a lightweight and breathable robe that comes with a matching baby swaddle blanket and hat.
Pillow: A pillow is an essential item for your comfort and support during the postpartum period. A pillow can help you sleep better, as well as prop up your head, back, legs or belly while resting or feeding your baby. A pillow can also help you with positioning and latch while breastfeeding or pumping. One of the best pillows on the market is the Boppy Original Nursing Pillow and Positioner, which is a curved and firm pillow that fits around your waist and supports your baby.
Snacks: Snacks are important for your nutrition and energy during the postpartum period. Snacks can help you meet your increased calorie and protein needs, as well as satisfy your hunger and cravings. Snacks can also help you stay hydrated, especially if you choose fruits, vegetables or dairy products. Some of the best snacks for the postpartum period are nuts, granola bars, yogurt, cheese, crackers, hummus, dried fruits, smoothies and oatmeal.
Conclusion
The postpartum period is a time of recovery and adjustment for you and your baby. To make this time easier, fun and more enjoyable, you need to have some postpartum essentials on hand that can help you with your physical and emotional well-being.
In this article, we shared with you 15 postpartum essentials that you’ll need for recovery, based on the recommendations of experts and experienced moms. We also told you where you can find these products recommended by 4aKid, the trusted online baby shop since 2007 that offers a wide range of baby and toddler products, including postpartum care items.
We hope this article was helpful and informative for you. Remember to take good care of yourself and enjoy this special time with your baby. You deserve it!
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