Postpartum Care: Taking Care of You
So, you've just conquered the incredible feat of childbirth. Hell yes! Now, buckle up babe you’re in the postpartum period. It's a time of immense joy, exhaustion, and a whole lot of surprises. To help you navigate this wild ride, let's talk about the essentials you’ll need to plan for.
Create a Nest for Your Recovery
Create an area that will be your safe space. Whether it’s your bedroom, the couch in the living room, or some other place to land, make sure it can accommodate what you and baby need: comfort, support and access. When thinking of a place, ask yourself, “What makes me feel safe and comforted?” You'll want to think about that as you create a cozy nest where you can rest, heal, and bond with your baby. Here are a few must-haves:
Nursing Pillow: This isn't just for breast feeding, but bottle feeding too! It’s also a lifesaver for propping up baby during tummy time, cuddling, and even as a makeshift armrest.
Body Pillow: Your body will feel wrecked after childbirth. That body pillow you used during pregnancy will give you the same kind of support to sleep more comfortably in postpartum
Cozy blankets: In case you pass out on the couch, you’ll want something soft and soothing to cuddle up with.
A Baby Station: Get a container or basket and inside, put a burp cloth, swaddle blanket, diapers, wipes, extra outfit, and whatever else your baby needs regularly so you’ll have it on hand quickly.
Get Your Meals Prepped
Let's be real: cooking and cleaning will be the last things on your mind after you just had a baby. Here are some ways you can stay nourished when you’re in no condition to cook.
Stock Up: Fill the kitchen with easy-to-prepare meals, snacks, and drinks to keep you fueled and hydrated (especially if you’re breastfeeding). When stocking up, think about the nutrients your body needs to heal, encourage milk production (if you’re breastfeeding) and even treats that will support your mental health (if cookies bring you joy, GO FOR IT!)
Let Others Help: Before your third trimester, have your partner set up a meal train to cover the first week of postpartum dinners. This time can feel like you’re in survival mode, so lean on others to cook.
Self-Care Essentials
Don't forget about yourself! The postpartum period can be emotionally and physically demanding. Creating a bathroom kit will help you have what you need on hand, all in one place. Get a storage container and add:
Wipes: Keep some sanitary wipes in the bathroom to help clean yourself well (just be careful not to wipe any open wounds or tears!). Sometimes, TP just aint enough!
Pads: You’ll be bleeding in the postpartum period, so you’ll want to have XL overnight pads handy. Also get some nursing pads for your bras to absorb the milk leaking from your breasts.
Creams and Salves: You’ll have wounds that need healing— vaginal trauma, c-section wounds, chapped nipples—and you’ll want to have pain relieving and healing OTC ointments and sprays on hand!
Supportive Bras and Underwear: Your breasts will be working overtime, even if you’re not breastfeeding. They’ll be hurtin’! Get some comfy bras that offer good support; if you are breastfeeding, get a bra with the flaps that unclip easily for feeding. You’ll also want high-waisted, seamless underwear, especially if you’ve had a c-section (the compression will help you heal!)
Cozy Clothes: Think loose-fitting pants, soft t-shirts, and comfy robes. You'll be living in these for a while, so make sure they feel good against your skin. Don’t feel rushed to get “dressed” for the day. Just wear what’s clean and cozy!
Ice Packs and Heating Pads: These are your go-to for soothing sore breasts, easing postpartum aches, and promoting healing.
Pro Tip: Get a bag of frozen peas, wrap in a clean hand towel and stick it in your panties! Your vag will thank you.
Remember, every postpartum journey is unique. What works for one may not work for another. Give yourself a sh!t ton of grace right now! The most important thing is to listen to your body, prioritize your needs, and ask for help when you need it.
