Everyone loves to talk about pregnancy (and feel your baby bump without asking), but what about postpartum care?
Whenever the postpartum period is mentioned, it’s usually quickly skipped over or spoken about without much detail. For some reason, the rawness of postpartum gets left out of most mommy vlogs and “real talk” series. Let’s change that narrative so that all new moms-to-be can feel prepared for the reality of the fourth trimester.
Although postpartum can be very difficult when going through it, don’t fear. We’re here to help make this season as easy as possible for new parents. When confronted with a challenging time in life, it’s best to be prepared beforehand. Knowledge is power, after all. Reviewing what you might go through and how to support yourself during this time can be a huge help.
Your Plan of Attack
When it comes to postpartum, there are things new mothers will want to know. No one likes having to rush and learn about something they are going through that’s difficult when you’re in the thick of it.
When you have a cold, you don’t want to have to wait until a family member can go to the store for you to get medicine. You want to be prepared by already having it on hand so that when symptoms appear, you can quickly soothe them and get on the mend.
The same thing can be said about postpartum. When you’re going through it, the last thing you’ll want to be doing is researching all “the stuff” and trying to get someone to help you out.
We are here to provide you with the ins and outs of all the things you want ahead of time. That way, the moment you give birth to your precious bundle of joy, you’ll have what you need to be comfortable and heal (or, at the very least, feel a little better).
Prepare for the Delivery
When it comes to getting ready for the hospital, there are a few things you will want to pack to ensure a more pleasant stay away from home. Depending on your birthing plan and how your delivery unfolds, you could be in the hospital anywhere from 24 hours following your delivery to possibly a week or more. No one’s accused babies of being predictable — they’re in change.
With that in mind, you are going to want to be prepared and have everything you could need and want.
For starters, grab some mega comfortable clothing to wear while you are there and when you’re leaving. The Hospital Departure Bundle features a buttery soft, breathable loungewear set with a nursing-friendly top and bump-friendly pants. It also includes our Skin to Skin nursing bra and luxury nipple balm for those early nursing days.
In addition to quality loungewear, bring any and all comfort items to make your stay more home-like, like your favorite pillow and blanket. Some mamas love to bring their pregnancy pillows for when they’re laboring or for having extra support while resting afterward. Don’t forget to pack a handy dandy claw clip and some soft hair scrunchies.
You may also want to consider bringing your own toiletries as the ones offered at the hospital are not always to our liking. Packing some travel-size shampoo/conditioner and body wash is the move.
Prioritize Comfort
One thing you are not going to want to forget is some Fresh Mama Natural Deodorant. The one thing you are longing to feel postpartum is clean and fresh, so having this deodorant is one step to feeling a little better.
With all the uncomfortably that can come with postpartum, you are going to want to do whatever you can to feel more relaxed and like yourself. Birthing a child is no joke! It is the most incredible experience to be able to bring a child into the world, but let’s be real… you are going to feel sore just about everywhere.
The last thing you are going to want to wear when feeling sore and in pain is cheap, scratchy clothing that makes you feel miserable (looking at you, hospital sheets).
Let’s talk about what you are going to want to wear instead.
First off, you are an absolute queen, okay! So, for nighttime, you should be dressed like one. The New Mama Sleep Bundle includes a silky stretchy PJ set that makes you feel and look like the royalty you are. It also includes our Skin to Skin Nursing Bra and High Tuck Briefs for extra support and comfortability.
For everyday wear, The 4th Trimester Nesting Bundle is the perfect kit for postpartum. If you’re looking to add any postpartum items to a gift registry, this is the go-to postpartum set for comfort. It features a cotton, softer-than-soft, breathable robe with matching joggers and our Skin to Skin Nursing Bra. And of course, can’t forget the Nipple + Lip Rescue Balm to make the kit complete.
Speaking of healing kits…
Assemble a Healing Care Kit
Something to keep in mind is that postpartum is not only a time to experience the joy-filled bliss of meeting your precious babe and embracing motherhood, but it is also a time for your body to heal. You just made ultra-marathon runners look like they took a casual stroll to Starbucks.
So, yeah, here are some well-crafted items to support your well-being:
Meet your new best friend, Belly & Body Bath Soak. This mineral-rich coconut milk and Himalayan sea salt soak will ease those sore muscles and tender areas. Nothing is better postpartum than a nice warm bath that can actually help ease and heal your body.
If you have a vaginal delivery, there are some things to keep in mind. Although pushing a child out can be quite unforgiving for you down there, some items might bring relief and help you to heal faster.
Some postpartum items such as witch hazel cooling pads, extra absorbent pads, pain relief perineal spray, and comfortable, supportive underwear can make a world of difference in those weeks following birth.
Suppose you happen to be having a cesarean delivery. In that case, your doctor might recommend absorbent pads and comfortable underwear. Having heating pads and ice packs is great to soothe sore muscles and a painful abdomen.
Up Your Skin Care Game
Taking care of your skin is still important after becoming a mama and will help you feel more refreshed and put together when you implement a great skin-care routine that leaves you glowing.
Our Face Oil + Serum Duo is a powerful pair for your skin that brightens and hydrates your skin to bring your inner glow to the surface. This combo is a great postpartum self-care gift to add to your registry, along with some Sunny Mama Face + Body Duo Sunscreen to protect your skin, keeping it young and radiant.
Look Into Breastfeeding Care if Desired
If you are breastfeeding your baby, taking care of your breasts and nipples will be essential for your postpartum wellness.
There are a couple of tips that will make your feeding journey more convenient and pain-free:
In your early breastfeeding days, when your milk comes in, make sure you are wearing bras that are supportive and non-restrictive. If you are wearing tight, restricting bras, it will not only be more difficult to breastfeed with ease, but it can also increase your risk of having clogged milk ducts and getting mastitis. This is why having a quality Nursing & Pumping Bra is essential.
Let’s be honest: breastfeeding does not always start out all rainbows and sunshine. It can be uncomfortable and challenging as you and your new baby learn what to do and how to do it. When your breasts first get used to this new task, they can be tender or sore. Breast therapy packs that you can freeze or heat up are great to place on your breasts when you’re feeling discomfort.
In addition to taking care of your breasts, you can never overlook your nipples. Taking care of your nipples is so important, and you can thank us later. Avoid cracked and painful nipples by religiously applying some moisturizing nipple balm.
We Care About Postpartum Health Care
Having a special stash of all your favorite goodies is a great way to decompress and relax when you’re in the thick of postpartum. Having a basket by your bedside filled with some yummy and nutritious snacks like dark chocolate, dried fruit, and protein bars will be perfect for those late-night cravings while breastfeeding.
Include other items that will help you process your labor and delivery and postpartum by having a cute journal and pen nearby to jot down your thoughts and record precious memories. Your mental health is so important and should be prioritized in the midst of postpartum and everything that can come with it.
It’s always fun to include your favorite genre of books, some lactation memes, and the best-smelling lotions and candles. Take the time to create a space where you feel special and taken care of.
Postpartum can be great. It can also be totally exhausting. It can also be both. A support team is an absolute must-have, and we’re happy to be part of that squad.
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