Postpartum Essentials
As an expecting mama, you’ve got so much going on and especially if you’re a first time mama, figuring out what you will need for postpartum care is often overlooked until the very last minute. For me, preparing for postpartum was essential and so important to my recovery and well being during this extremely exhausting time. Getting prepared ahead of time can help make the transition easier.
I created this post-partum care kit for myself with essential items and I hope that you can find benefit in using them yourself.
Healing after vaginal birth:
Disposable underwear. You will have bleeding following a vaginal birth and having comfortable underwear to use with either disposable underwear or heavy flow pads will make everything easier. These are super comfortable and may I hesitate to say, somewhat flattering.
Sitz bath and herbal blend. Using an herbal sitz bath can help with healing of the perineum and can help with swelling and healing of vaginal tears. You can also make your own sitz bath tea with equal parts of lavender, calendula and comfrey. Place in sitz bath and relax for 15 min.
Peri bottle. Wiping after using the toilet is no fun after birth. Use a peri bottle filled with your premade sitz bath tea will go so much smoother and help with healing.
Witch hazel foam. Witch hazel is soothing for the perineum and helpful if you did develop hemorrhoids following childbirth. This method of application is super easy and painless. You can apply directly or apply foam to clean pad.
Nursing supplies:
Nursing bra: Something supportive, but not too tight. These are my fave from H&M.
Nursing pads. I did use re-usable organic fleece nursing pads, but found that I was always wet. These guys were super easy and absorbable:
Nipple cream. If you get anything on this list, its this!
Sunflower Lecithin to prevent clogged ducts. Clogged ducts happen and can lead to mastitis. Having this on hand is essential. If you feel warmth, pain or a clogged duct coming on, take this to help prevent it from progressing any more.
Probiotics. These probiotics were recommended to me by my lactation consultant.
Heated massager to prevent clogged ducts and help with milk flow. When you have clogged ducts these felt really good when massaging the ducts out.
Boosting your Qi:
Heating pad (Code: mha10s 10% off + Free Shipping): Its important to keep your belly and uterus warm postpartum. The uterus is still shrinking in size and you may be experiencing cramping during this time, especially while nursing. Heat can help to alleviate this discomfort. Heat to the lower abdomen and low back will also support the nourishing of your Qi and supporting your Kidneys for healing and energy.
Mugwort (Ai Ye) sticks are helpful for boosting Qi and warming the channels. Your local acupuncture clinic will have these.
Make a nourishing herbal soup with Chinese herbs.
Books:
Guidance Based on TCM and the postpartum Period: The First Forty Days