*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.*
Table of Contents
- 1. Hospital-Grade Breast Pump:
- 2. Hands-Free Breast Pump:
- 3. Peri Bottle:
- 4. Adult Diapers:
- 5. Dermoplast:
- 6. Haka:
- 7. Nipple Guard:
- 8. Sterilizing Bag:
- 9. Mini Fridge:
- 10. Breast Pump Bra:
- 11. Stool Softener:
- Conclusion:
Bringing a new life into the world is a beautiful experience, but it also comes with its challenges, especially during the postpartum period. Whether you’re a first-time parent or adding to your growing family, the newborn stage can be physically and emotionally demanding. To help you navigate this precious yet challenging time, we’ve compiled a list of 11 postpartum essentials that will make your life easier and more comfortable. These essentials will not only help you recover from childbirth but also support your baby’s needs during those initial weeks.
1. Hospital-Grade Breast Pump:
A hospital-grade breast pump is a must-have for breastfeeding mothers. It’s efficient, powerful, and can help establish and maintain milk supply. Invest in a high-quality pump to make the breastfeeding journey more manageable.
Most insurance companies now cover these types of pumps. Make sure to ask your provider if you have any benefits as a soon-to-be-mom.
The reason you’ll want a hospital-grade breast pump is because it will express your milk the most efficiently which will help maintain your milk supply.
2. Hands-Free Breast Pump:
A hands-free breast pump allows you to multitask while expressing milk. This is a game-changer for busy moms who want to pump and still have their hands free to take care of their baby or tackle other tasks.
Although most hands-free pumps are not hospital grade, they are perfect for on-the-go pumping when you need your hands for other tasks like washing bottles or changing diapers. Instead of being tied down to a chair, use this pump for freedom around your house. With some slight maneuvering, I’ve used the pump while rocking my baby to sleep.
3. Peri Bottle:
A peri bottle is a postpartum lifesaver. It helps you clean and soothe your perineal area after childbirth. Make sure to have one on hand for a comfortable and hygienic recovery.
Although the hospital normally provides one for you, those peri bottles have to be put upside down to get to the areas you need it most. Instead, opt for a peri bottle with an angled tip to easily reach places you’ll otherwise miss. This is one purchase I don’t regret for my postpartum care.
4. Adult Diapers:
Skip the hassle of traditional pads and opt for adult diapers for the first few days postpartum. They provide excellent coverage and absorbency, ensuring you stay dry and comfortable.
The pad and underwear combo the hospital gives you slides around and gets messy. Immediately using adult diapers (even taking some in your hospital bag) is something you won’t regret.
The adult diapers also keep your witch hazel and ice packs n place better than any hospital underwear can.
5. Dermoplast:
You might recognize this plan if you have given birth or know someone who has given birth. Dermoplast is a topical pain reliever and antiseptic spray that can alleviate discomfort and irritation in your perineal area.
Most hospitals will provide this to you after a vaginal delivery and let me say it is a lifesaver. Not only does it provide cooling relief when you spray it. It also has a pain reliever in it so that you can sit comfortably.
6. Haka:
A Haka is a silicone breast pump that collects letdown milk from the non-nursing breast while you’re feeding your baby on the other side. It helps you save precious breast milk and avoid leaks.
If I had this with my firstborn, it would have saved me so many nipple pads and pumping sessions.
If the pump is too big for you and you want something more discreet, you can opt for the Haka Lady Bug milk collector.
Either way, you’ll want to collect that precious milk from your letdowns.
7. Nipple Guard:
Nipple guards are helpful if you’re experiencing nipple pain or discomfort during breastfeeding. They offer protection and relief while still allowing your baby to latch on.
Breastfeeding the second time became very painful for me from day 1. For some reason, my little one wouldn’t latch properly causing extreme pain and discomfort from the slightest touch. Nipple guards saved me when I wasn’t breastfeeding or pumping by keeping my nipples away from any clothing that could touch them during this time.
Furthermore, the nipple guards I used allowed for the lanolin or other nipple creams I used to sit for longer periods providing more relief.
Even if you don’t have pain in your nipples, letting them “breathe” during nursing will help immensely.
8. Sterilizing Bag:
For quick and easy sterilization of baby bottles, breast pump parts, and pacifiers, a sterilizing bag is a convenient tool. Pop your items in the bag, add water, and microwave for a few minutes – voila, sterilized items ready for your baby.
You can use these bags several times and it is so much easier than bringing out a big, bulky sterilizer especially when counter space is limited.
9. Mini Fridge:
Having a mini fridge in your bedroom can be a game-changer for night feeds. I used it to store breast milk or formula safely and conveniently without having to go to the kitchen during the night.
This is a survival must-have especially when you’re waking up every 2 hours. In combination with a bottle warmer, you won’t even have to roam far and you can save those precious minutes.
10. Breast Pump Bra:
A breast pump bra allows you to pump hands-free and comfortably. It’s a practical accessory for busy moms, especially if you’re exclusively pumping or an over-supplier.
Using a breast pump bra for holding a pump on one side while feeding my little one on the other saved me precious time during the newborn stage and let me get some shut-eye a lot faster than without it.
11. Stool Softener:
Constipation can be a common postpartum issue. A stool softener can help alleviate this discomfort and make bowel movements more comfortable.
With the right dosage, you won’t be stuck on the toilet, but it makes using the bathroom 100 times more comfortable.
Conclusion:
Surviving the newborn stage can be challenging, but with the right postpartum essentials, you can make this time more comfortable and enjoyable for both you and your baby. Remember that self-care is crucial during this period, so prioritize your well-being as you care for your new arrival. These 11 essentials will help you on your journey to postpartum recovery and motherhood.