The Ultimate Postpartum Checklist: Essential Items for Recovering from Birth
Preparing for birth is so so important, but it’s equally important to prepare for what comes next. So today we’re going to dive into the rollercoaster that is the postpartum period, also known as your 'fourth trimester.' This time is all about healing, bonding, and navigating your new role as a parent. Whether your baby's grand entrance is via a vaginal birth or a cesarean, having the right postpartum essentials on hand can seriously make a huge difference!
Essentials for Every New Parent
Comfy Postpartum Underwear and Pads: Let's be real about lochia — that postpartum bleeding that graces us all, regardless of how your baby enters the world. Stock up on comfortable underwear and some heavy-duty maxi pads. Postpartum… when everyone is wearing diapers.
Peri Bottle: This item is a total lifesaver, especially after a vaginal birth. Consider it your personal mini bidet that ensures cleanliness and comfort down there.
Pain Relief: There’s no shame in leaning on some relief, folks! Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help with post-birth discomfort. Make sure to chat with your provider about what's safe for you.
Stool Softeners: This little aid can make your first post-birth bathroom visit after birth far more comfortable. Plus, I always advise my clients to wait until you really have to go… no straining!!
Nutrient-dense Snacks and Pre-prepped Meals: Recovering from birth takes energy, and you're going to need plenty of it. Stock your fridge/freezer with healthy snacks and pre-prepped meals. Your future self will thank you, I promise!
Non-essentials That Can Make a Big Difference
Sitz Bath or Epsom Salts: These can be heavenly for your healing body, particularly after a vaginal birth. Make sure you’re getting any herbs from a reputable source!
Nipple Cream: For breastfeeding parents, a good nipple cream can soothe sore or cracked nipples, which are common in the first week or so. If you continue to have nipple pain, soreness, or other issues, it might be worth chatting with a skilled Lactation Consultant! I recommend Natalie Wonders if you’re local to Denver. She also offers virtual visits!
Heating Pad: This magical little tool can help soothe all of those aches and pains, whether they're from round-the-clock feeding or healing from your birth.
Pumping Bra: If pumping is in your plans, this will be your new best friends. They allow you to go hands free while pumping all that amazing milk which is honestly huge as a busy new parent.
Abdominal Binder/Compression Leggings: This item is like a supportive hug for your healing muscles, especially after a cesarean. It provides essential support and can make navigating your recovery more comfortable.
Every postpartum journey is unique, and it's absolutely okay to ask for help or lean on a few convenient items. This postpartum essentials checklist isn't exhaustive, but it's a great starting point. Anything that makes your journey a bit easier, cozier, or more comfortable is worth considering.
In that spirit, it's worth noting that some parents find hiring a postpartum doula an absolute game-changer. As you navigate your own postpartum journey, remember, you're not alone. Postpartum doulas provide invaluable support, helping you adjust and settle into your new role as a parent. The fantastic doulas at Lucina Rising Birthwork offer remarkable postpartum care and support services. They're there to provide information, emotional support, and assistance as you heal and bond with your new baby. This can be a transformative investment in your wellbeing during the postpartum period.
So, don't hesitate to reach out and explore how a postpartum doula can assist you on your path! Remember, it takes a village, and there's no harm in leaning on the expertise of others. After all, your care and comfort matter every bit as much as your new little one's. Take care, be gentle with yourself, and always remember - you're doing an incredible job! 💛
Want to dive deeper and prepare for your unique postpartum journey? Explore my comprehensive, evidence-based childbirth classes, where we cover everything from birthing methods to postpartum healing. I offer these private birth classes both virtually around the world and in-person for those local to Denver. Click here to learn more about these empowering classes. Can’t wait to hear from you!
