I have traveled down the path of postpartum recovery, on four different occasions. Now, I am sharing some of the products I have found most helpful during the initial days of postpartum!
Down There Recovery
~Herbal Bath Mix- Herbal baths are absolute MAGIC. Not only do they aid in the physical healing process, they brought mental healing through solitude and relaxation.
~Upside Down Peri Bottle - Your peri bottle will be your go-to in the bathroom post giving birth. This particular peri bottle was the one I preferred the most.
~Women's Postpartum Underwear- I am not one of the moms that enjoys the feeling of "adult diapers". Mesh undies and a pad suited me well. And the Frida Mom boyshorts were my go to after the hospital mesh undies ran out.
~Rael Pads for Women- These are the GOAT. Postpartum or Menstrual.
~Colace- I am a firm believer in using diet in the early postpartum to help prevent constipation. But... for the first week after birth, I have always utilized a stool softener, so as to give the perineal tissue no strain and stress during bathroom visits. So it can heal easily.
Nursing Support
~Haakaa Ladybug Milk Collector- By using this on the opposite breast I was nursing from, I managed to collect and freeze a significant amount of milk. It also conveniently fit in my nursing bra.
~Breastfeeding Cotton Bralette- Its best in the early days of breastfeeding, for the "ladies" to bounce freely. This aids circulation, to help prevent clogged ducts and mastitis. But sometimes engorgement pain is alleviated by light support. This particular style is great for that.
~Ultra-Thin Disposable Nursing Pads- Really great to use at night, when you do not want to take time to collect milk from the opposite breast.
~Herbal Nipple Balm- I used my own recipe of nipple balm to help with soreness and cracked nipples. It's made with all organic ingredients. Including shea butter, olive oil, homegrown calendula, marshmallow and local beeswax.
Belly Binders
~I used two different types of belly binders to support my core recovery. The one I used for the first two weeks is what I call a Tubigrip binder. It's made from elastic abdominal bandage. (I make and provide these to clients) I really enjoyed this type for the weeks I was laying in bed more, as it is supportive, but not very structured.
~The binder I used after two weeks, was a bengkung binder. This type of binder is incredibly structured. And feels so good on loose ligaments and muscles when up and about more.
Food and Hydration
~I always had a thermos filled with some sort of warm herbal tea or beverage. And a case of bottled water by my bed for the early days. I chose a case of bottled water, so I was not CONSTANTLY asking for refills. Cause nursing thirst is a beast.
~Basket filled with prepackaged snacks, that were easy to grab any time of the day. Such as Trail Mix, Lara bars, KIND bars, Grass Fed Beef Sticks, Honey Sticks, and Fruit Bars.
~Meal Train and Freezer Meals- I gathered my village, and gave specific recipes and meal suggestions for anyone that was willing to help provide us a meal. And of course, I take the time in the months leading up to birth, and pack my freezer with as many ready to go meals as possible.
Mental Support
~Scripture Cards- I am a Christian, who also gets really bad postpartum anxiety. And one of the tools I use to combat it is having Bible verses on hand to read through.
~Scented Candle- Yes. I know. Scented candles are not exactly the most healthiest scent alternative. But, during the immediate days after birth, the aroma of a good candle, can be such a balm to a tired soul. The one I linked was the one I had burning during the evening, when the sunset scaries would set in.
~Nursing Nightgown- Old tee shirts and shorts are great. But having a really comfy and pretty nightgown that is easy to breastfeed in, is such a confidence booster.
But what helped most of all...
Was not a physical item, but physical support.
Doing the work of preparing for postpartum. And realizing that postpartum cannot be done alone. And that if I truly wanted a positive experience, I was going to have to gather my village, and ask for and even financially invest in that help.
Not just for myself. But ultimately, for my children.
If you found this post helpful, share it with other new moms in your life.
Angel
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