You never know what to expect for labor and delivery. Similarly it can be tough to tell what postpartum recovery will look like. But it doesn’t mean you can’t prepare! Throughout my two postpartum recoveries, these have become my go-to items to make the 4th trimester much more comfortable.
Heading into labor and delivery soon? Here are a few things I’ve learned to stock up on that can make postpartum recovery much more comfortable!
For Perineal Recovery
Always Discreet Underwear: An alternative to the gigantic pads that hospitals may give you, these make the process more streamlined and soft. Any bit to help you feel more normal! Pro Tip: Add an extra small waste basket in the bathroom since these can be bulky to dispose of.
HoneyPot Postpartum Pads: I loved these after having my second son! They’re cooling and reminded me of the padsicles that I DIYed during my first pregnancy. I’ve heard from some that they can be a little strong, so try one and see how you feel before stocking up on multiple packs. I’ll be using them again in the future for sure though!
Tucks: Along with ginormous pads, the hospital may send you home with some witch hazel pads like these for your postpartum recovery. It doesn’t hurt to have an extra container at home (or in every bathroom) as well.
Dermoplast spray: Another hospital favorite, this cooling spray is a must. It helps numb you *down there* so any pain you have is less noticeable.
Earth Mama Perineal Cooling Spray: Similar to Dermoplast, this is a great all natural option!
Frida Mom Witch Hazel Cooling Pad Liners: These liners are like Tucks but from mama-approved company Frida Mom. They have a whole line of postpartum items that will help you prepare, including ice pads!
Friday Mom Upside Down Peri Bottle: If you buy anything from the suggestions in this postpartum recovery post, GET THIS BAD BOY! An upside down peri bottle (formally known as the Mom Washer) is a must-have and is the modern gal’s peri bottle. Seriously. It’s so much easier to use, feels cleaner, and is just overall a more convenient product. I got two so I could keep one upstairs and one downstairs. You’ll thank me later!
For Breastfeeding
Reusable Nursing Pads: When your milk comes in, you may find yourself literally soaked in puddles. Grab some reusable nursing pads to soak up any leaky milk! This set comes with plenty of pairs so you can add them to the diaper bag, nightstand, and anywhere else you may need to quickly add some support.
Milk Saver: Speaking of leaking milk, the Milk Saver is a must-have product for collecting said milk! I’ve used this with both babies and have been able to collect multiple bags worth of leaking milk that otherwise would have soaked into my clothes (or nursing pads). Every ounce counts and can help you build up that early stash if you’re in the market to do so!
Simple Wishes Handsfree Pumping Bra: This one is pretty self-explanatory, but a handsfree pumping bra will help hold your pumps in place so you don’t have to.
Kindred Bravely Handsfree Pumping/Nursing Bra: If you really want to up the ante, this pumping/nursing bra from Kindred Bravely is amazing! It does the work of the Simple Wishes bra while also offering a regular nursing bra style. You can wear it throughout the day as you normally would a regular bra. Plus, it’s super supportive – even for us busty gals! I’ve received so many compliments asking me what bra I’m wearing when I wear this. It’s the perfect everyday bra for nursing mamas!
For Comfort + Loungewear
Kindred Bravely Postpartum Underwear: High-waisted undies will keep you comfortable during the weeks after you’ve moved on from the Always Discreet. The worst feeling is having a pair of underwear that is too tight on your recovering belly (or potential c-section scar!)
Button-down Pajamas: For easy access for nursing and keeping comfortable, look no further. There’s something about new pajamas that help the postpartum phase feel more put together too!
Seamless sleep nursing bra: These are great for not only sleep, but for comfortable afternoons in the hospital too! They’re super easy to pull to the side and use for nursing. Would highly recommend!
Other Must Haves
Reusable Water Bottle: Drinking water while you are postpartum is SO important. It will help your milk supply, rehydrate you after labor, boost your energy and mood, and so much more. Stock up on a reusable water bottle like this to help keep you on track during the day and make sure you’re getting enough water in your system for both you and baby.
After-ease herbal drops: I tried these drops after my second labor and overall was glad I did! While I wouldn’t say they were the miracle worker I expected them to be, I definitely noticed a difference and will use them again. You just add a couple of drops to your water bottle and it helps to ease the feeling of post-labor contractions. Because if you didn’t know, those are a thing! You can watch my video below to hear more about my experience there. 😉
Here are some other comfy postpartum pieces I love:
Motherhood Maternity Full Coverage Nursing Bra | Auden Yoga Nursing Bra | Nursing nightgown | Postpartum robe | Kindred Bravely Bamboo lounge shorts
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