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Your labor and delivery will determine what postpartum supplies you need, especially if you tear OR have a c-section.
In my experience with my past 3 births, in 2021 and 2023, my needs were slightly different after each birth. I had a second-degree tear in 2021 and that healing process was longer and more uncomfortable than my first-degree tear in 2023.
If you have a c-section, your care supplies will be a bit different from what I list. I can only speak for vaginal births since that is my experience.
I’ve listed things that I used for all 3 births & will probably use again for postpartum #4. I’ll have them on hand just in case.
Vaginal Recovery
- Diapers AND/OR Period Underwear
You may have to trial-and-error different diaper brands, pads, or period underwear, especially, as a first-time mom. I like the Always Discreet Boutique Incontinence and Postpartum Underwear. When the lochia (postpartum discharge) reduces I use U by Kotex Clean & Secure Overnight Maxi Pads.
Consider trying a cleaner option like Rael Disposable Period Underwear Made With Organic Cotton or Rael Period Underwear.
- Preferred Peri Bottle
You can use the one the hospital gives you. However, if you tear I highly recommend buying your own. The Frida Mom Upside Down Peri Bottle for Postpartum Care, for example, shoots softer and more accurately at an angle.
- Highly Absorbent Toilet Paper
Something like Charmin Ultra Strong Toilet Paper. If you tear I recommend having toilet paper that won’t rip because it will be easier to pat dry.
- Stool Softener
This is truly needed, particularly if you tear. OMG – it is so scary to poop after a vaginal birth or tear. You don’t HAVE to take it (please consult your postpartum health professional) but it helped me. You can look into more natural options, like magnesium. I’ve only used Colace Clear Stool Softener Soft Gel Capsules.
- Perineal Spray
I used Motherlove Sitz Bath Spray or Earth Mama Herbal Perineal Spray before and prefer Motherlove. Some women soak in an actual herbal sitz bath, which I am sure helps so much.
- Ice Pads
I used the ones provided by the hospital and Frida Mom Instant Maxi Pads. Both were so helpful for the first 2 births (and yes, especially the first one due to a second-degree tear). It was uncomfortable sometimes while healing from the second-degree tear when sitting due to the bulkiness.
Note: This 4th time I am planning on spraying my disposable diaper or pad with a mixture of witch hazel + aloe vera gel + lavender tea. The recipe is from Mama Natural, but I am not making padsicles. (If I don’t need it I’ll repurpose the ingredients. After my 3rd was born I didn’t need any soothing. I felt fine.)
Optional – Healing Tears or Additional Aid
The hospital may supply an additional one for home use.
I prefer the Motherlove Sitz spray – I felt it helped me personally more with healing the second-degree tear. It helped soothe better than Dermaplast. I was grateful to have both sprays though.
I also used this one along with the sitz bath spray. It was so helpful for the second-degree tear – was very soothing.
I used the Tucks at the hospital but I found them to be so annoying because they moved or got stuck to my bottom – they were soothing at first if they stayed in place.
The peri liners were soothing but were annoying also since they may get stuck to you or move out of place.
- Sitz Bath Soak
I have not done this. However many moms and birth workers recommend it. It reduces swelling, irritation, itch, and pain, and helps the healing process. Personally, I just don’t want the hassle of preparing it and having to clean anything extra. If it’s something that you think may help you then try it!
Buy it – Earth Mama Herbal Sitz Bath OR Make it – Postpartum Herbal Sitz Bath Recipe.
Important – Birth Education
I recommend learning the 3 stages of labor, birthing positions, and pain management techniques. This will help you labor more intentionally and work with your body and labor process. It will reduce the chance of tearing!
I found this video to be insightful. FYI, it is a graphic video of women giving birth.
Apparently, you can also avoid the ring of fire which is when you feel a burning sensation as the baby’s head is crowning and being pushed out. I am planning to have a water home birth, but if I happen to not make it to the water I am planning to try the warm compression against my perineum as explained in the video.
Bathroom Set Up
This helped make it easier to poop! I love the style and it’s still great 2 years later. (Also makes it easier for my toddler to use the toilet on her own)
- Shelf or Cart
I purchased a shelf for my bathroom, specifically for postpartum items. Folding 3 Shelves Black – Brightroom™ and use The Home Edit Bamboo Small Open Front Storage Bin on the top shelf and The Home Edit Bamboo small closed storage bin on the second shelf, which seems to be discontinued.
Target has some similar products – Stackable Kids’ Wood Bin Natural – Pillowfort™ or Woven Water Hyacinth Milk Crate – Brightroom™.
Herbal Remedies
It helps ease postpartum cramps. I didn’t have pain medicine on hand and drinking a cup of red raspberry relieved me of the intense cramp pain. It assists with wound healing. **I would recommend this one at least – even if you don’t try the others**
Not only does it also help relieve postpartum cramps, boost energy levels, strengthen adrenal glands, help regulate postpartum bleeding and provide many minerals.
It is rich in nutrients and can help with hair and nail growth. (If you experience postpartum hair loss, this may be one to try out.)
It is known to reduce inflammation and treat wounds.
It is known to improve symptoms of anxiety and depression. It also has properties that can help relieve pain.
It helps relieve postpartum (or menstrual) cramps and has been used to treat swollen glands, as well as, fluid retention.
It is an adaptogen herb known to regulate sleep (which can be helpful immediately postpartum).
Note: It is recommended by many to drink the NORA (nettle, oatstraw, red raspberry, alfalfa) tea blend during pregnancy through postpartum. I would add Cramp Bark and Motherwort for postpartum cramp relief.
You can use a French Press to brew and filter the tea.
Breastfeeding/Nursing/Feeding
- Breastfeeding Station Cart or Shelf
A cart that contains breastfeeding tools keeps things organized & easily accessible when needed. I purchased mine in 2021 at Michael’s – the Lexington 3-Tier Rolling Cart by Simply Tidy® with the Lexington Cart Handle by Simply Tidy™.
- Bottles & Pump Parts Cabinet/Dish Rack
For easy access. I purchased the Yamazaki Home Tower Two-Tier Adjustable Dish Drainer Rack in 2022 because I liked how sturdy it looked and high it is. It is pricey but I don’t regret the purchase since I am still using it.
- Breast pump
I used the Spectra S2 Plus and the BabyBuddha. Both of these are great for pumping – Baby Buddah allows for some freedom.
I am planning on using manual pumps this time – Lansinoh, Medela, and Haakaa – along with breastfeeding.
If you plan to catch/store colostrum for your baby, I highly recommend using the Haakaa Colostrum Collectors. They work so much better than syringes, especially if you catch a very tiny amount in a bottle or medicine cup. These collectors get most/all of the colostrum.
Note: You may qualify for a free breast pump through your insurance. If not, maybe wait for a sale or borrow one from a friend.
- Nipple Balm
I tried Motherlove Nipple Cream, Earth Mama Organic Nipple Butter™, and Tiny Human Supply Co Organic Nipple Cream. I prefer the Tiny Human nipple cream.
- Nursing Cups
I have NOT tried these yet but I am planning on trying them this time around with baby #4 — Silverette Nursing Cups.
- Nursing/Pump Bra(s)
I purchased a few at Burlington in 2021 and they’ve lasted very long. I tried the Sublime® Hands-Free Pumping & Nursing Bra but I did not like it. It felt so bulky. I prefer nursing bras not pumping bras.
Target has some nice options as well – Women’s Nursing Seamless Bra – Auden™, Women’s Nursing Yoga Bra – Auden™, and Women’s Nursing Bralette – Auden™.
- Breastmilk Storage System
Use storage bags – disposable or reusable – to keep a freezer stash, if needed. The most popular are Lansinoh Breastmilk Storage Bags or Medela Breastmilk Storage Bags. There are many other options.
The Medela Breast Milk Collection and Storage Bottles or Momcozy Breast Milk Pitcher are good options for more immediate use of the collected breastmilk.
I used the Medela bottles since I was only able to produce enough to feed within the same day – baby did not latch. There are many other brand options. If using plastic, silicone, or glass I suggest researching microplastics and lead content. It is recommended not to heat plastic or silicone to prevent microplastic in milk (or reduce the chance of such transmission).
Optional – Breast Therapy/Pain Management
Personally, I didn’t feel that they helped – my milk was not flowing and I wasn’t able to release the milk.
Helped soothe breast pain when milk was stuck/nipple pain from pumping.
To use with warm water as a remedy to treat engorgement.
Note: If you’re experiencing engorgement, please check out this quick post.
- Silicone Flanges/Elastic Nipple Friendly Flange
Pumpin Pal flange set may be a good option for you. The shape is different from the normal flange that comes with most pumps.
Legendairy Silicone Collection Cups are a great option for sensitive breasts and nipples. Silicone flanges are much more comfortable vs the hard plastic.
The Legendairy cups can be use with the Spectra or BabyBuddha, for example. Provides ability to move a little better with the flanges sticking out of your bra.
Important – Breastfeeding Education
I recommend learning the what, why, how, when, & where of breastfeeding — all the ins and outs. The information you will learn may make more sense once you hold your baby in your arms. Study this! It will help you be better equipped to breastfeed.
Real Food for Pregnancy by Lily Nichols RDN, CDE has a chapter on breastfeeding. It is essential to be well nourished through your pregnancy and beyond. Frankly, it is vital to be well-nourished before pregnancy and beyond.
The Thompson Method is a course I highly recommend to purchase. Dr. Robyn Thompson teaches this gentle breastfeeding method that has helped many women – listen to her explain here.
Also, check this video out (FYI it is graphic)! God designed us so perfectly. That is not to say there won’t be struggles, which is where knowledge would help us.
Food/Help
- Snacks
Preferably snacks that are high in protein/fiber – like beef sticks or jerky from Lineage or Archer.
- Electrolyte Drinks
Try solo coconut water OR make a concoction. There are many recipes out there.
- Frozen Meals/Previously Prepared or Ready to Eat Meals
Hopefully, your loved ones or church family can help you by bringing you some already-cooked meals. If not, you can plan to prepare some before giving birth.
- Scheduled Help, if possible (e.g. family or friends to help with chores etc)
You can talk to family and friends before giving birth about helping you. Help will alleviate stress and it can give you the time you need to bond with your baby AND work on breastfeeding.
Not to mention you NEED the rest. Remember that although you can’t see it you have a huge wound inside you.
Am I missing something you think every mom should have on hand postpartum?
Bendiciones <3
