Postpartum Goodies for Mama

Just as we prepare ourselves for birth, we should also prepare ourselves for postpartum. When you hire me as your postpartum doula while you're still pregnant, I'll help you make a "postpartum plan" which works much like a birth plan. It helps you start thinking about what your postpartum experience will be like and preparing you for caring for your new family as a whole and as individuals.

But today, I just want to talk about the material goods for you, Mama. The "goodies" that you can stock up on before hand or even ask for on your baby registry for your own needs and care postpartum. 

1. A good perineum spray and postpartum herb bath - Try Earth Mama Angel Baby for something you can find in stores or online.
2. Heavy maxi pads/Depends - Your choice of brand and style, just have some on hand and expect bleeding (lochia) for at least 6 weeks. If you haven't already, you might look into cloth pads for more comfort, such as Lunapads. 
3. Postpartum healing pads such as Tucks - Or you can make your own using a recipe such as this one. Note: This is a fancy recipe--all that's really needed is the witch hazel, pure Aloe Vera gel, spray bottle, pads and aluminum foil or zip-lock bags (for storage in the freezer). 
4. Granny panties - Cotton for comfort and perhaps a size larger than what you normally wear. Something the larger pads will fit into easily and you're not worried about staining.
5. Peri-bottle and intimate wipes/sensitive baby wipes - If you give birth at a hospital or birth center, they may send you home with a peri-bottle. If not, you'll want to acquire one on your own. Use this to spray clean, warm (or cool) water during and after you use the bathroom. This can help with any discomfort and is the gentlest way to clean. You can use the wipes to clean after a bowel movement. Just remember, no wipe is truly flushable, even if it says so on it's packaging, so always throw wipes in the trash when done. 
6. Nipple cream! If you'll be breastfeeding, a good nipple cream can really help sooth some of the normal discomforts of beginning breastfeeding. I again suggest Earth Mama Angel Baby or I also like Motherlove. 
7. Nursing pads - You'll often leak milk in the beginning even if you choose not to breastfeed. Disposable or reusable options are available. 
8. Nursing bras - I recommend 2-3 good nursing bras for day time and a couple "sleep" nursing bras for night and lounging.
9. Nourishing tea - Even if you don't like what we traditionally think of as "tea," I suggestion you try some herbal tea. I really love Euphoric Herbals pregnancy, breastfeeding, and postpartum teas, salves, and sprays. Be sure to read the instructions carefully, ask them any questions, and clear any herbal product with your care provider. 
10. Large water bottle or cup - Sometimes, the hospital will send you some with that huge straw cup. Use it! Hydration is important and breastfeeding can make you thirsty. Or treat yourself to a pretty water bottle you'll enjoy carring around. 
11. Snacks - Eating with a new baby can be a challenge. Make sure you're nourishing yourself so you can nourish your little one. Stock up on some healthy snacks such as trail mix or dried fruit. Think easy to grab, but healthy. 
12. Small basket or caddy - Something to help you carry your essentials to any room in your house. That way you can easily care for you (your current, book, snacks, water cup, etc.) and your newborn (nursing supplies, diapers, etc.).
13. Journal - Many new mothers enjoy reflecting during their postpartum period. It's also a great place to write down baby's milestones and help you keep track of feeding sessions and diaper changes. 
14. Something(s) you enjoy - Make a basket or box of things just you enjoy and save them for the postpartum period. Magazines, a book, a new movie, a brand new bottle of your favorite lotion, etc. Make it easy to take some moments to do simple self care, which is so important postpartum. 

What would you add to this list? Take away? 

**I was not paid or even asked to recommend the brands mentioned in this article.**