Postpartum Essentials: Part 1

Postpartum Essentials: Part 1

Hello hello! I am SO sorry for the delay. Better late than never, right?

A bunch of you recently asked me to talk about what I think is necessary for postpartum; all of the postpartum essentials. First of all, I feel like there is not enough out there around postpartum and how important it is for us as women to take care of ourselves. I actually take that back, there is a lot out there but I didn’t know how much I would need it until after the fact. When thinking about essentials, this can be broken down in to a couple different areas- the items you need and more importantly, the support you need, which I plan to cover in a part 2 post, as I think that is SO important. Until then, here are the items that worked for me.

1. 1. For nursing, I was told the Boppy pillow is the best. After having conversations with the lactation consultant who did not agree and trying it out, I soon realized the Boppy didn’t work for ME. It may for others. Based on recommendations, I ordered the “My Breast Friend“ nursing pillow and loved it. It better supports the baby and also it supported me. It has a wrap around velcro strap which I really like and a pocket (we all love pockets).
   2. A caddy is a must. This was great for nursing, pumping or just being tied to one spot for a while. I could put any supplies, snacks, water, etc. in the caddy and take it where I need to go. I also did have an area I set up “shop”, but liked the option to be more mobile when I wanted to be. It can also be used to keep baby supplies in another area of the house for easy access to diapers, wipes, etc.
   3. A good nursing bra is not something you can compromise on. Here, here and here are 3 of my favorites.
   4. Adult diapers…I know, how mortifying, but these are a lifesaver. The big mesh undies and giant pads from the hospital never seem to stay in place. The diapers are a lot more comfortable and super easy to dispose of. I say go up a size because you want them to be somewhat loose fitting after labor and up until you no longer need them.
   5. I use so much nipple cream and tried about 4 or 5 different brands. The one I love and have kept using is the “Earth Mama“. It is organic and non-toxic so you don’t have to wash it off when baby nurses.
   6. Witch Hazel pads…no need to explain. Get some.
   7. Comfy pajamas and a nice robe are key after the baby. You will not want to get dressed for a while and may not really be able to wear too much depending on your unique situation. I really liked button down sleep shirts or gowns after Ella was born. This made it easy to nurse, pump and I didn’t need to worry about any type of pants. My robe I lived in (still do). It is long enough where you could answer the door and not feel weird. But in covid world, who is answering the door.
   8. Ice packs can also be hard to manage postpartum, but you need them desperately. Lucky for me, and now you, I found the Frida Mom Ice pack pads! These fit right in my diaper (so hot)…but actually, so cold. They were a lifesaver.
   9. Underwear…for once you are potty trained! But in all seriousness, you need nice undies for a little later. I love and will forever wear them (sorry Trent). They are really soft, comfortable, don’t dig in and are supposed to be great for c-section moms too.
   10. Peri Bottle. You’ll get one at the hospital. I really liked the one from Frida Mom though because of the angle. I put the one from the hospital in a bathroom downstairs and the Frida Mom bottle in our master bath. I definitely suggest more than one.
   11. After using the peri bottle, I used a Perineal balm and spray also from Earth Mama. Again, I really liked these products due to their organic nature and non-toxic ingredients. If you’ve followed me a while, you know I am super selective on all self care/beauty products.

I am encouraged that this list will help someone better prep. A lot of this I would also bring to the hospital if I were you. I can do a separate post on that as well if y’all are interested. Just comment or send me a message in IG @mellycoy.

Stay tuned for my part 2. It’s east to figure out the “stuff” you need, but knowing what to expect emotionally and mentally is a very different story.

Have a great rest of the week! XOXO