Becoming a new mother can be an overwhelming experience, both emotionally and physically. It’s essential for mothers to take care of themselves after giving birth, and having a great postpartum must-haves list can make a significant difference in their recovery and well-being. From comfortable clothing to breastfeeding aids, there are several items that can help new mothers navigate the challenges of postpartum life with ease.
If you’re wanting to pamper a new mom with some postpartum must-haves, consider making a postpartum gift basket to bring to them as soon as they get settled into their new life. A postpartum gift basket can include a variety of items (see below) that can help the new mother feel more comfortable and supported during this challenging time. From cozy pajamas to breastfeeding essentials, there are many items that can be included in a postpartum gift basket.
Read more: Ten Ways To Rediscover Yourself After Having A Baby
Postpartum Must-Haves
Ritual Postnatal Vitamin
Ritual’s Postnatal Vitamins are a daily multivitamin designed for women who have recently given birth. The formula contains essential nutrients that support both mom and baby’s health during the postpartum period.
The vitamins are formulated with high-quality, bioavailable forms of key nutrients, including folate, omega-3 DHA, vitamin D3, iron, magnesium, and vitamin B12. These nutrients are important for supporting the body’s recovery after childbirth, as well as promoting healthy lactation and ensuring that both mom and baby get the nutrients they need.
Best of all, Ritual’s Postnatal Vitamins are also vegan-friendly and free from common allergens like gluten, soy, and dairy. They are also non-GMO and have no artificial colors or preservatives.
Kindred Bravely Maternity Panties
Kindred Bravely Maternity Panties are specially designed underwear for pregnant and postpartum women. These panties are made from a blend of bamboo and spandex, which provides softness, comfort, and stretchability to accommodate a growing belly.
The panties feature a high waistband that sits comfortably over a baby bump without digging in or causing discomfort. This waistband also helps support the lower back and can help relieve pregnancy-related back pain.
In addition, these maternity panties can accommodate postpartum pads and mesh underwear. They are also machine washable and can withstand repeated washing without losing their shape or softness.
Frida Mom Upside Down Peri Bottle
The Frida Mom Upside Down Peri Bottle is one of the more popular postpartum must-haves for new moms (don’t take our word for it, look at those reviews!) It is specifically designed to provide gentle, effective, and easy-to-use cleansing and soothing of the perineal area after childbirth.
The bottle’s unique upside-down design allows for easy, one-handed use, which is particularly helpful when mobility is limited due to postpartum recovery. The bottle also has a longer, curved nozzle that is ergonomically designed to reach all the hard-to-reach areas.
The Frida Mom Upside Down Peri Bottle is made from durable, BPA-free plastic that is easy to clean and can be refilled as needed. It can be used with warm water or a soothing saline solution to provide gentle cleansing and relief from discomfort.
Tubby Todd Nipple Balm
Tubby Todd Nipple Balm is a soothing and hydrating balm specifically for nursing mothers to help prevent and soothe sore, cracked nipples. Made with 100% natural and organic ingredients, it is safe for both mom and baby.
The balm is formulated with a blend of nourishing ingredients such as coconut oil, shea butter, and calendula extract, which help soothe and moisturize the skin. It is also fragrance-free, which is important for moms who are breastfeeding and want to avoid exposing their baby to unnecessary chemicals.
Tubby Todd Nipple Balm is easy to apply and doesn’t leave any greasy residue like a lot of other brands do. It can be used before and after nursing, as needed, to provide relief and promote healing. The balm is very easy to travel with in that it comes in a convenient 1.75 oz jar that can be easily stored in a diaper bag or nursing station.
Tucks Pads
During childbirth, the perineal area can become swollen and sore (did we mention perineal tearing during childbirth?), which can cause discomfort while sitting, walking, and going to the bathroom. Tucks Medicated Pads are literal lifesavers and can be used after childbirth to provide relief to the perineal area, reducing inflammation and promoting healing. They can also be used to soothe and reduce swelling after hemorrhoid surgery.
The pads are individually wrapped for convenience and easy portability and can be used as often as needed throughout the day to provide gentle, cooling relief. Their convenient size and easy-to-use formula make them one of the top postpartum must-haves for many new mothers seeking relief from the discomforts associated with childbirth.
Stanley Tumbler
The Stanley Adventure Quencher Tumbler is one of the more popular postpartum must-haves for recovery (and in general), and for good reason! Not only can it be used to keep beverages cold or hot, which can be beneficial during the recovery period, but it is made with 18/8 stainless steel and is double-walled, which makes it durable and able to retain the temperature of your drink for a longer period.
During postpartum recovery, it is important for new mothers to stay hydrated. However, with a newborn baby to care for, it can be challenging to find the time to refill a drink or keep a beverage cold or hot. The Stanley Adventure Quencher Tumbler helps to solve this problem by keeping drinks at the desired temperature for a longer period, making it easier for new mothers to stay hydrated.
The tumbler comes with a press-fit lid that helps to prevent spills, which is especially important for new mothers who may be holding their baby while trying to drink. It also has a removable silicone straw for easy cleaning and a built-in loop for convenient carrying.
Medela Breast Pads
Medela Breast Pads are designed to provide comfort and protection for breastfeeding mothers. During postpartum recovery, new mothers may experience engorgement, soreness, or leakage while breastfeeding. The Medela Breast Pads can help to alleviate these discomforts by providing a layer of protection between the skin and clothing. The pads are also designed with a contoured shape that fits comfortably to the breast, providing a natural and discreet appearance under clothing.
These breast pads are also individually wrapped, making them convenient for on-the-go use. They are also disposable, which means that they can be easily discarded after use, reducing the need for frequent washing of reusable breast pads.
Latuza Women’s 3 Piece Nursing Pajama Set
The Latuza Women’s 3 Piece Nursing Pajama Set are among the best pajamas for mothers who want comfortable and convenient clothing for breastfeeding. Because honestly, who wants to bother fiddling with a pajama top to breastfeed while there’s a screaming baby at 2 am? The top features a crossover design with an inner panel for easy nursing access, while the pants have an elastic waistband for comfort and convenience. The robe is also designed with a crossover design and inner panel for easy breastfeeding access.
The pajama set is available in a range of colors and sizes, making it great for new mothers to find a style that fits their needs and preferences. It is machine washable, making it easy to care for and maintain over time.
Dulcolax
Dulcolax is a brand of over-the-counter laxatives that can be used for postpartum recovery. As one of the most important postpartum must-haves on this list, this is one that you do NOT want to find yourself without (trust us on this one). Laxatives can be helpful for new mothers who are experiencing constipation or other bowel issues after giving birth. Dulcolax comes in several different forms, including tablets, suppositories, and liquids. It is recommended to speak with a healthcare provider before using any medication, including Dulcolax, during postpartum recovery.
Depends Disposable Underwear
Depends disposable underwear can be a helpful option for postpartum must-haves as they provide a comfortable and convenient way to manage incontinence or heavy bleeding. These underwear have a high absorbency capacity and are designed to fit securely and comfortably, providing protection and peace of mind. They are easy to use and can be disposed of after each use, which can be a time-saver for new moms who are busy taking care of their newborns. However, it’s important to note that these products can be expensive and may not be affordable for everyone. Additionally, some women may prefer more sustainable and eco-friendly options, such as cloth pads or reusable underwear.
Offer Support for New Moms
While having the correct postpartum must-haves for a new mother is important, a support system can be incredibly helpful for new mothers during the postpartum period. Here are some ways a support system can help:
- Emotional support: New mothers may experience a range of emotions, from joy to anxiety to sadness. A support system can provide a listening ear, offer words of encouragement and validation, and help the new mother feel less isolated and overwhelmed.
- Practical support: Taking care of a newborn can be physically demanding and time-consuming. A support system can provide practical help with household chores, running errands, or taking care of older children, allowing the new mother to rest and recover.
- Breastfeeding support: Breastfeeding can be challenging for new mothers, but having a support system that includes a lactation consultant, support group, or experienced breastfeeding mother can help new mothers troubleshoot any issues and feel more confident and comfortable with nursing.
- Parenting advice: Having a network of experienced parents can provide a wealth of knowledge and advice to new mothers who may be navigating parenting for the first time. This can help new mothers feel more confident in their own parenting abilities and make informed decisions for their baby’s care.
- Social support: The postpartum period can be isolating, especially if the new mother is unable to leave the house for a while. Having a support system that includes friends, family, or other new mothers can provide social interaction and reduce feelings of loneliness.
A support system can help new mothers feel more confident, less isolated, and better equipped to handle the challenges of the postpartum period. A support system can take many forms, from family and friends to online communities or support groups, and it’s important for new mothers to build a network that meets their individual needs.
Becoming a new mother is a life-changing experience that requires ample preparation to ensure a smooth postpartum recovery period. Having the right postpartum must-haves can make a significant difference in helping new mothers recover from childbirth, establish a successful breastfeeding routine, and just plain survive those first precious weeks of caring for a newborn. While every new mother’s experience is unique, having these essential items on hand can help make the postpartum period more comfortable and enjoyable.
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