Postpartum Recovery Essentials You Didn't Know You Needed
When it comes time to bring home baby, there's definitely a learning curve.
There may be a learning curve as you acclimate to your new role as a mom, but there's still a long road to recovery ahead. As you settle in at home, it makes a huge difference to gather the support and resources that nourish a swift recovery.
Not all postpartum resources are created equal. We took some of the guess work out of postpartum planning by giving you a good place to start.
Feeding Pillow
The Boppy pillow is a breastfeeding mother's best friend. This "u" shaped pillow is specifically designed to help new breastfeeding mothers comfortably breastfeed and find the position that works best for them. The pillow is also great for propping up your newborn safely and even offering a comfortable place to sit when you're still sensitive from birth. This wonder-pillow comes in a wide variety of patterns and colors and has a convenient washable cover. My Breast Friend is also a wonderful addition to your feeding pillow collection. We suggest the professional model that can be wiped clean after any spit up or other accidents. Have twins? They make the perfect pillow just for that!
Brondell Swash 1000
It might seem like a luxury item, but a bidet seat is nice to have in those first few weeks home with baby. Wiping can be downright uncomfortable if you're healing from a vaginal birth. Whether you're opting for a bidet attachment or a full seat, it's a great way to stay fresh and comfortable as you heal. The Brondell Swash 1000 has a warmed seat, adjustable water temperature and pressure settings to keep you feeling clean throughout the phases of postpartum bleeding and healing. You can angle the stream of water in different ways or directions. Having a bidet is a more sterile and comfortable alternative to a simple spray bottle and it's gentle enough to use on your first day home.
Homemade Pad-sicles
Your perineum is likely to stay sore and uncomfortable for at least the first few weeks. Making some frozen pads ahead of time can help give you some soothing relief for the discomfort. Take a quality overnight pad with wings and gently unwrap the wrapper where it can be repackaged. Fill a small spray bottle with alcohol-free witch hazel, pure aloe vera gel, and 5 to 10 drops of lavender, frankincense, rosemary and geranium essential oils. The essential oils are optional, however they can help promote surface healing, prevent infection, and reduce inflammation. Spray the pads thoroughly but don't soak through the pads, re wrap them and neatly stack them in the freezer. Be sure to ask your doctor or midwife if this option is safe for you!
Nalgene Water Bottles
It might seem like a no-brainer to stay hydrated as you heal, but many women find themselves dehydrated and struggling with a low milk volume. A Nalgene Bottle is a brightly colored reminder to drink up and stay hydrated. Fill a few bottles in the morning and scatter them throughout the house to always keep a refreshing drink nearby.
Nursing Tanks and Bras
A good nursing garment makes the world of difference. These tanks and bras are soft, comfortable, durable (which is more important than you'd think) and easy access for feedings at all hours. These tanks will be an every day staple for the first few weeks of your postpartum recovery and the more comfortable you are, the speedier that recovery will be.
Your Postpartum BFF
Did you know you don't have to figure all of this out on your own? Coming home with a new baby and tons of unsolicited advice can turn the most calm person into a frustrated and anxious ball of energy. Postpartum & Infant Care doulas are making the entrance to parenthood a joyous and fun experience. From helping you out of bed during the healing process to prepping meals, these incredible specialists are becoming an integral part of every new parent's bringing home baby plan.
Postpartum recovery doesn't have to be a pain.
Having the right supplies and support to keep your postpartum recovery on track is essential. Before your baby arrives, gather together all the supplies you'll need and reach out to an in home infant specialist so you can head home confident and prepared with your brand new baby.