When I was pregnant with my first baby I had no idea how uncomfortable the first few weeks postpartum would be. You're torn apart and swollen, engorged and leaking milk, and more hormonal than ever before. As a first time mom I had no idea what supplies I would need, what the hospital would provide, and what was unnecessary. So I made a list for all my new mamas so you don't feel so lost! These are all affiliate links so if you get items using these links I benefit from it! Thank you all for your support!
1. Peri Bottle
While giving birth most women tear vaginally, sometimes all the way to the anus. After using the bathroom wiping is extremely painful, uncomfortable, and not clean enough. Peri bottles are made specifically for postpartum mamas to clean with. You fill them with warm water and while sitting on the toilet spray the whole area you want cleansed. They provide one of these at the hospital, but it can be awkward to use. This one is shaped specifically for this purpose, and cleaner to use.
2. Woman's Diapers
After a vaginal birth most women loose over half a quart of blood, so maxi pads are not going to cover it! The hospital will provide some postpartum pads during your stay, but many woman find them uncomfortable and difficult to use. These postpartum diapers are easy to use and can hold a lot more fluid than the normal maxi pad. This one is a good price for so many diapers and they are still great quality!
3. Dermoplast and Witch Hazel Pads
This spray is a lifesaver the weeks following birth. It helps decrease itching and stinging where there is tearing and soreness. This was my saving grace in my postpartum weeks and make the experience much less painful than it would have been. The witch Hazel pads also help with stinging and can also be used to gently wipe the area clean. Some women also put these into their diapers or disposable underwear.
Dermoplast: https://amzn.to/3HRV77J
Witch Hazel Pads: https://amzn.to/48aV0ia
4. Belly Wrap
Belly wraps help your uterus heal and go down closer to the pre baby size. Though now is not the time to worry about how big your belly is, this will help you get back into your normal clothes faster! Belly wraps also support your back muscles and relieve pain.
5. Sitz Bath Salts
Bath salts are so good to reduce swelling and pain. They also help you heal faster and decrease infection risks. Nothing is as relaxing and refreshing as a hot bath with Epsom salt after giving birth.
6. Pajamas
You will be spending the next few weeks in bed and the next few months relaxing with your baby often. Postpartum Pajamas are so nice, especially when they allow your size to fluctuate and are breastfeeding friendly. Here are some links to some of my favorite ones!