The reality of postpartum recovery hit me harder than I anticipated. I was thrilled to finally meet my little one, but I quickly realized that taking care of myself was just as important as taking care of my baby.
I felt unprepared for the postpartum period. I didn’t know how long it would take to heal, or what to expect physically, and I did not expect the emotional toll it would take on both my husband and I.
Related: Postpartum Weight Loss
During birth, I tore pretty badly. This led to me having difficulties sitting down for over a week postpartum. My baby was born with tongue and lip ties that went undiagnosed and led to latching issues. Those led to untreated engorgement, a lot of breast pain, mastitis, and even thrush in both myself and my baby. Lastly, I suffered from postpartum anxiety and was having difficulties sleeping, eating, staying hydrated, and just taking care of myself in general.
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After experiencing the difficulties of postpartum, I decided I needed to help other moms who may not know what to expect. To help make your postpartum journey a little easier, I’ve compiled a list of the best postpartum products for either vaginal delivery or C-section, as well as essential items for breastfeeding moms.
Table of Contents
How Long Does Postpartum Recovery Take After Giving Birth?
I remember anxiously counting the weeks until my body would feel “normal” again. Around 6-8 weeks postpartum, most women will have recovered from giving birth. In general, you can expect your bleeding to have stopped or slowed significantly, your uterus to shrink down to its pre-pregnancy size, and your menstrual cycle to begin to normalize. However, sometimes this recovery process may take a little longer. Things like breastfeeding, C-sections, and postpartum complications may slow the healing process. The biggest struggles I faced postpartum were pain while sitting down and breastfeeding pains.
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Physical Changes to Expect During Postpartum Recovery
The physical changes after giving birth were a rollercoaster. You may experience everything from vaginal, perineum, or C-section incision healing, to uterine pain, bleeding, pelvic floor changes, muscle soreness, hip pains, lower back pain, night sweats, constipation, and breast engorgement. Each day brought a new challenge, like not being able to sit on anything other than the couch, but having the right items made it manageable.
Emotional Changes to Expect During Postpartum Recovery
Hormone fluctuations were a huge part of my postpartum journey. During pregnancy, your estrogen and progesterone levels increase, and you produce human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). Now that you have given birth, your body will transition from a state of growing and nurturing your baby via the placenta, to now assisting you heal, bond with your baby, and breastfeed.
Estrogen and progesterone levels drop, while oxytocin and prolactin increase. These massive hormone fluctuations may lead to emotional instability, anxiety, baby blues, and even depression. If you’re anything like me, the mood swings and instability can last for months.
My Struggle with Postpartum Anxiety
I suffered from postpartum anxiety (PPA) after giving birth to my son. Postpartum anxiety is the constant and excessive worry that women may experience after giving birth. While some level of worry is expected with having a newborn, anxiety that is out of control or all-consuming is not.
Being a pediatric nurse, I was constantly worried about every little thing. I could not sleep, wasn’t eating enough, and was always on my phone researching breastfeeding and newborn sleep. I remember nights where I would keep the baby monitor on at all times and my eyes would be glued to it, watching my son’s chest rise and fall. My amazing husband was my rock, cooking meals and sometimes even feeding me when I was too exhausted to eat.
It took a village during this time. I was always texting fellow mom friends to ask them if things I was experiencing were normal and how they managed them. I definitely did not shower enough as I was afraid to put my baby down, even with trusted family watching him. Other symptoms of PPA may include increased heart rate, nausea, shortness of breath, trouble sitting still, muscle tension, racing thoughts, irrational fears, difficulty focusing, forgetfulness, irritability, avoiding people or places, checking things over and over again, and being controlling.
Baby Blues vs. Depression
Understanding the difference between baby blues and depression is crucial. While baby blues are common and usually temporary, postpartum depression is more intense and requires medical attention.
The baby blues typically hit within a few days after giving birth and can last up to two weeks. During this time, one may experience mood swings, irritability, anxiety, and bouts of crying. These feelings, though intense, are temporary and manageable. It can be overwhelming, but you can still care for yourself and your baby.
Postpartum depression, on the other hand, is more severe and long-lasting. Symptoms of PPD may include persistent sadness or depressed mood, severe mood swings, excessive crying, difficulty bonding with the baby, withdrawal from family and friends, loss of appetite or eating too much, insomnia or sleeping too much, overwhelming fatigue or loss of energy, reduced interest and pleasure in activities, intense irritability and anger, feelings of worthlessness, shame, guilt, or inadequacy, difficulty thinking, concentrating, or making decisions, severe anxiety and panic attacks, and thoughts of harming oneself or the baby
To manage the baby blues, get adequate rest, eat balanced meals and stay hydrated, get support, take time for yourself, and even seek out a therapist. If you think you may have PPD, speak with your doctor. You may want or need medications, therapy, or support groups with moms going through the same thing as you.
Tips for a Faster Postpartum Recovery
A few key tips can help make your postpartum recovery journey easier and maybe speed it up a little. Vaginal discharge or bleeding requires heavy-duty pads instead of tampons. Avoid putting anything inside your vagina during the first 6 weeks postpartum as it can lead to infection. Take cool sitz baths in the first few days for episiotomy care or tearing, and squeeze your bottom cheeks together when sitting. Pain relief is important, so ask your doctor about safe medications.
Sleep whenever you can, stay hydrated, and maintain a nutritious diet rich in high-fiber foods. This can be extremely difficult especially if your baby likes to be held to sleep, or is a frequent crier. Ask for help when necessary. This can be in the form of watching or holding the baby while you sleep or even helping with shopping and cooking food.
Exercise can help with healing, but wait until your doctor gives you the green light, usually around six weeks postpartum. Start slow and notify your doctor if you have increased pain or bleeding during exercise. You can also start using breastfeeding safe products to help heal any stretch marks you may have developed during pregnancy.
Warmth can soothe soreness before feeding or expressing if you’re breastfeeding. I recommend speaking with a lactation consultant from day one postpartum, as this journey can be more difficult for some. I had extreme breast pain and engorgement during my whole breastfeeding journey, which led to us switching to formula way sooner than I would have liked.
Best Postpartum Items for a Vaginal Birth
Pads
After giving birth vaginally, you’ll need heavy-duty pads to manage postpartum bleeding. Look for pads specifically designed for maximum absorbency and comfort. I also recommend investing in good overnight pads, for extra protection as you toss and turn. As your bleeding slows down, you can opt for panty liners instead. Do NOT use tampons during this healing period.
Underwear
Disposable mesh underwear or high-waisted, breathable underwear are essential for holding pads in place and providing support without putting pressure on sensitive areas.
Peri Bottle
After giving birth, even the simplest tasks like using the bathroom became a challenge. Enter the peri bottle. This little squirt bottle was a game-changer for me. Instead of using rough toilet paper, I used warm water from the peri bottle to gently clean myself. It was soothing and made a huge difference in my comfort level during those tender postpartum days. I carried it with me everywhere, even on quick trips out of the house.
Witch Hazel Wipes
Witch hazel wipes offer gentle cleansing and soothing relief for swollen and tender areas, particularly if you experienced tearing or episiotomy during delivery. They are also great for hemorrhoids, which are common postpartum. I’ll give you the same advice my postpartum nurse gave me: do not use these excessively. These wipes can dry you out down there, which can become more painful in the long run.
Numbing Spray
This was my SAVING GRACE for the postpartum and tearing pain. An over-the-counter numbing spray containing ingredients like lidocaine can provide temporary relief from pain and discomfort associated with childbirth.
Padscicles
DIY or pre-made padscicles (frozen pads soaked in soothing ingredients like witch hazel and aloe vera) offer cooling relief and help reduce swelling and pain in the perineal area. I recommend doing DIY padsicles before going into labor; otherwise, opt for these ice pads made specifically for postpartum relief.
Stool Softeners
Constipation is common after childbirth, so stool softeners can help make bowel movements more comfortable and prevent straining. Opt for something like Colace, and try to avoid any type of laxatives that could cause you more GI issues.
Flushable Wipes
Gentle flushable wipes can provide added cleanliness and comfort during postpartum bathroom trips, especially when toilet paper feels too abrasive.
Nourishing Snacks and Water Bottles
Taking care of a newborn is exhausting work, and staying nourished is crucial. I kept a stash of easy-to-grab snacks and a giant water bottle by my side at all times. There were nights when I’d wake up hungry and having a granola bar or some nuts within reach was a lifesaver. Staying hydrated was equally important. I had a water bottle with a straw that made it easy to drink one-handed while nursing.
Best Postpartum Recovery Items for a C-Section
Abdominal Binder
An abdominal binder or belly band provides support to the abdominal muscles and incision site, promoting healing and reducing discomfort during movement. Highly recommended after a c-section but also extremely useful after giving birth in general to hold things in place. I loved using an abdominal binder for the first few weeks postpartum, it also helped with my scoliosis!
Gentle Cleansing Wipes
Soft, fragrance-free wipes are ideal for keeping the incision area clean and preventing infection without irritating sensitive skin.
Loose Clothing
Loose-fitting, breathable clothing helps minimize friction and irritation around the incision area while allowing for easy access for dressing changes and monitoring.
Stool Softeners
Like vaginal birth, C-section delivery can also lead to constipation, so stool softeners such as Colace can help ease bowel movements and prevent strain on the incision site.
Gentle Skin Care
Unscented, hypoallergenic skincare products are gentle on delicate skin and can help promote healing without causing irritation or allergic reactions.
Best Items for Breastfeeding
Postpartum recovery also includes adjusting to breastfeeding. Breastfeeding can be a difficult challenge in itself. Pair it with mouth ties or low milk supply and you have your hands full. These items will make your breastfeeding experience just a little easier. Find a more comprehensive list of breastfeeding products, pumping products, and best tips for breastfeeding here.
Nursing Bra
One of the first things I learned was the importance of having comfortable nursing bras. In those early weeks, I spent a lot of time breastfeeding and the right bra made all the difference. I remember the relief I felt when I switched to a soft, supportive nursing bra that didn’t dig into my skin.
Nipple Cream
This unscented, organic, nipple balm gave my nipples a sweet relief. It helps to soothe and moisturize sore, cracked nipples, promoting healing and comfort during breastfeeding. I highly recommend using this nipple cream from breastfeeding session #1.
Breast Pads
Disposable breast pads or reusable breast pads absorb leaking breast milk and prevent embarrassing leaks, keeping you dry and comfortable throughout the day. I kept a stash of reusable pads and disposable pads that were gentle on my skin close to me at all times.
Breast Massager
A handheld breast massager can help relieve engorgement, plugged ducts, and mastitis by promoting milk flow and reducing discomfort.
Hot/Cold Packs
Hot packs can help relieve breast engorgement and encourage milk flow, while cold packs provide soothing relief for sore and swollen breasts between feedings. These 2-in-1 hot and cold breast pads were my lifesavers as I suffered from engorgement and breast pain. They are also great when weaning from breastfeeding.
Supportive Pillows
Lastly, supportive pillows were a must. I used a nursing pillow to help position my baby during feedings, which saved my back and arms from strain. I also had a few extra pillows to prop myself up in bed, making those late-night feedings a bit more comfortable. It was such a relief to have the right support, especially during those long hours of breastfeeding.
Conclusion: Embracing the Journey
Navigating the postpartum recovery period can be challenging, but with the right products and support, you can ease discomfort and promote healing as you adjust to life with your new bundle of joy. Whether you’ve had a vaginal birth or a C-section, and whether you’re breastfeeding or not, these essential postpartum items are designed to help you feel more comfortable, confident, and supported during this special time in your life.
Every new mom’s experience is unique, but I hope sharing my story helps others prepare for their own postpartum adventures. Remember, it’s okay to take care of yourself too. You deserve comfort and support as you navigate this beautiful, exhausting, and rewarding journey of motherhood. Wondering what to pack in your newborn’s diaper bag, check out my post on diaper bag essentials!
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