Preparing for Postpartum Recovery: Essential Tips for New Moms
While it's very exciting to prepare for the arrival of your baby, make sure you have all the trending baby gear, and enjoy your nesting period, it is also very important that you plan for postpartum. I would like to share some tips with you for ways to support postpartum healing.
Some Things You Should Have on Hand for Your Recovery
Nipple Cream - Your nipples may be sore in the first few days, but breastfeeding shouldn't be painful. Cracked or bleeding nipples is a red flag and should be addressed with an IBCLC (Internationally Board Certified Lactation Consultant).
Nursing Pillow - You may find a nursing pillow can help support your baby into a snug, comfortable position for nursing. Remember to hold baby's tummy to your tummy for a comfortable latch.
Comfy Slippers - When getting up and down while you're healing, it's nice to have some comfy slippers. Little booties/slippers are my favorite gift for an expecting mom to make their postpartum a little more cozy.
Granny Panties, Supportive Bra and Breast Pads - You will have some bleeding during your healing period. Remember that soaking a pad in one hour is a red flag and warrants a call to your provider. Some women prefer to wear disposable briefs/diapers or period underwear. A supportive bra is important during this time to support your changing breasts as they will feel heavier and require more support. Make sure to have plenty of breast pads handy as you will likely experience some milk leaking when your baby cries or when it's time to feed - this happens because your body naturally responds to your baby's cues by releasing milk.
Rolling Cart for Supplies - A stocked cart with supplies that you will need is a life saver during this time. Some things you may want to include in your cart are burp cloths, snacks, chapstick, breast pump and parts, your cell phone/remote control, and changing supplies for a quick diaper change on the couch when you don't want to make a trip to the changing table.
Abdominal Binder/Belly Binding - This ancient tradition is wonderful for postpartum healing. Think of it as a warm hug as your body heals and your organs return to their pre-pregnancy position.
Padsicles/Witch Hazel Pads - This helps relieve the burning soreness you will experience 'down there' as you are healing from the stretching (possible tearing) that occurred during labor. To make a padsicle, you can take a period pad and squeeze some aloe in it, place in a ziploc and store in the freezer. There are some ready made ones that you can purchase as well. Witch hazel pads or spray will be a life saver too for healing/relieving soreness.
A Sitz Bath - Sitz bath ingredients can include a combo of epsom salts, baking soda or sea salt. Hospitals will often send patients home with a portable sitz bath. You can also fill the bathtub with 3-4 inches of warm water and the sitz bath ingredients and sit in the tub and soak for 10-20 minutes. This is a very soothing practice for your recovery.
The Importance of Rest and Sleep- It is so important to rest as much as possible during your recovery. Even if you can't grab a nap, laying in with your baby and simply taking a load off your feet will do wonders. If you can have someone there like a loved one or postpartum doula to care for the baby while you sleep, that will help so much!
Limit Visitors- The postpartum period can be very overwhelming and daunting. You may not want to have a house-full of guests that you feel like you have to entertain, so don't be afraid to say no! This is your postpartum - your time of healing. It's a good idea, however, to have a list of chores handy for visitors to help with, such as sweeping, vacuuming, meal prep, caring for baby so you can grab a nap, or taking the dog on a walk.
Remember, your postpartum recovery is just as important as your pregnancy journey. By preparing ahead of time with these essential items and setting boundaries for your healing period, you're giving yourself the best chance for a smooth recovery. Be patient with yourself, listen to your body, and don't hesitate to reach out for help when you need it. You've got this, mama!