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If you’re anything like us, you spent months preparing for your baby to arrive. The nursery is ready, you have clothes, diapers, and your hospital bag is packed; you are ready for this little bundle to come into the world. But, are YOU ready?
Do you have everything you need to take care of yourself post-delivery? Whether you deliver vaginally or have a c-section, there are certain products/items we consider to be must-haves:
The biggest, ugliest, stretchiest granny panties you can find (really)
No one tells you that after you give birth, you still have a bump. And depending on the type of medication you have been given, there is a good chance you will be swollen. If you had a c-section, you want something that is going to sit above your scar and hold the ginormous diaper--I mean pads that you have tucked in there.
Hospital mesh panties
We’re not advocating that you steal these from the hospital or anything… but do not let these babies go to waste. They will be your best friend. In fact, they are such a hot commodity that Frida Baby started making their own line of mesh panties.
Pads, not panty liners
The best are the extra heavy flow pads that go from the top of those granny panties to the back. If you had a c-section, don’t think you are spared from the afterbirth bleeding. Trust us on this one. The bigger the better.
Nipple cream
If you are breastfeeding, you’re definitely going to want nipple cream. Using the right cream can help prevent and treat cracked and dry nipples. Trust us, you want this. Our favourite brand is Earth Mama Nipple Butter.
Cooling spray
If you know… you know. Our favourite is the Earth Mama Herbal Perineal Spray.
Stool softener and gas pain relief
A weird one, I know. Most hospitals provide this to you, but definitely buy more if you had a c-section--you just had major surgery, the last thing you want to be doing is pushing and putting pressure on your tummy while trying to poop. The gas pains you experience after a c-section are no joke. Walking around will help move the gas around, but depending on how bad they are, you might consider keeping some gas drops or pills on hand.
Comfortable pajamas
This might seem like a weird essential, but it isn’t. When you are in the hospital, you will likely opt to wear the gown they provide you, but having your own robe might make you feel a little more “you”. After a c-section, you will want to avoid anything that rubs against your incision. We’d highly recommend a nightgown or nursing robe that is easy to throw on and is super comfortable.
Pillows
Again… sort of random. If you had a c-section, using a pillow to put pressure on your incision when you sneeze, laugh, or cough actually helps with some of the pain. You’ll also want to use them to prop yourself up a little while you sleep. Laying flat on your back and trying to get out of bed was absolutely no fun at all.
There are so many items that can help with your postpartum recovery, but those just happen to be some of mine!
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