For my daughter’s home birth I had a long list of items from my midwives that I had to gather before my due date. My son was born in the hospital so a lot of the items did not apply, but I learned a lot about what I liked using to take care of myself during this crucial time. Here is my list of items for you to gather for yourself after you give birth to make sure your postpartum journey is as comfortable and healing as possible.
The postpartum period is such an important time for all mamas. It is the time that you need to take care of yourself the most. Which is counter-intuitive because you have a newborn baby who needs you so much right there in front of you. So don’t forget that you have to fill your own cup in order to be able to provide and care for your baby and your family. Take care of yourselves, mamas! ❤
This here is my list of the top items every mother needs after giving birth
Sitz Bath
MomWasher Peri Bottle
FridaBaby also made a new bottle that I have not tried, but I like their baby products so their mom products might be worth a try as well
Herbal Perineal Spray
I love the Sitz bath the most, but this is nice to have on hand if you don’t have time to brew the herbs and are in need of some soothing down there
AfterEase
to soothe after birth pains. This little bottle is magic!
Arnica
for soothing sore muscles and body aches after giving birth. Rub liberally all over! It’s natural and homeopathic and works wonders. (I keep it around for my little ones when they get bumps and bruises or for myself or husband if we get sore or injured).
Anica pellets
Natracare Organic Maternity Pads
Earth Mama Organic Nipple Butter
to soothe cracked or dry nipples
Lanolin
If you are really cracked, dry or in pain, good old fashioned Lanolin works wonders as well
The First Forty Days: The Essential Art of Nourishing the New Mother
This is a wonderful book that opened by eyes to the importance of the very beginning of the postpartum phase and how important it is to be taken care of and to take care of yourself
BabyBliss Natural Bamboo Reusable Nursing Pads
Kindred Bravely French Terry Sleep Nursing Bra
The best nursing bra for sleeping, so soft and comfortable and easy access for at night
Cosabella Never Say Never Mommie Nursing Bra
My hands down absolute favorite nursing bra for comfort, design and functionality. Comes in lots of beautiful colors, is well padded with cotton on the interior and comes in other styles such as racer back. It’s the best nursing bra!
Doula services
to help you get your bearings. Click the link to find a doula near you
Healthy meal services
or meals cooked for you by friends or family. Click the link for Motherbees food delivery service
Lactation consultant
Click the link to find one near you, or search through your local La Leche League chapter
Mother’s Milk Tea
Haakaa Breastpump
A friend who is a lactation consultant showed me this non-electronic food grade silicone breast pump that I think is so cool since I was never fond of pumping because of the loud sounds and the electronic pulling sensation. This is more like a milk catcher, and works through suction of the breast to capture milk. Love it!
Postnatal Yoga/Mom & Baby Yoga
Mommy’s Group
Postnatal Massage
Did I forget anything? Please let me know by leaving a comment below!