Necessities for Crunchy Moms After Giving Birth
The time after giving birth can come with ups and downs as you adjust to welcoming a new baby into your family that you have been eagerly waiting for. As a seasoned mother and doula, I have compiled a list of items necessary for the postpartum period to simplify things for both mother and infant.
You probably won’t use everything listed here, but these items have been useful to me after giving birth. I have shared them as presents with loved ones once their own little ones were born!
Postpartum Recovery Essentials For Mom
After giving birth, mothers must ease discomfort and get ready for temporary changes in their bodies during postpartum recovery. It may also consist of items for personal hygiene and to promote milk supply for breastfeeding mothers.
Perineal Care Products
The perineum is the region located between the vaginal opening and the anal opening. Following a vaginal delivery, this region frequently becomes swollen, tender, and unpleasant as a result of stretching and potential tearing. Adequate perineal care can minimize pain, support recovery, and lower the risk of infection.
Postpartum Sitz Bath
A sitz bath is a shallow, warm bath that is used to comfort and clean the perineal region following childbirth. Sitz baths can offer pain relief for episiotomy, tears, or hemorrhoids resulting from vaginal delivery. Including herbal infusions, witch hazel, and Epsom salts can also facilitate the healing process in that specific area.
This is my method for making a herbal sitz bath post-childbirth with calming herbs and Epsom salt. Another choice available are these soothing bath fizzies.
If considering DIY projects seems too daunting, you can explore some excellent store-bought options
Sitz baths can also serve as a wonderful form of self-care, which is so needed for tired mamas.
Witch Hazel Pads
Witch hazel pads are often utilized after giving birth to alleviate discomfort in the perineal region. They are also utilized for hemorrhoids, a common condition following childbirth. Therefore, it’s beneficial to have them nearby. Although “Tucks” pads can be commonly found in stores, they can also be easily created at home. Just a few ingredients are needed.
Simply soak cotton rounds in alcohol-free witch hazel and, if desired, aloe gel. You can even include a small amount of lavender essential oil. Make sure they are well-hydrated. Next, place them in a resealable plastic bag and store in the bathroom (or carry in your purse) for future use.
Witch hazel is also included in other forms of perineal care, like peri sprays.
Peri Bottles and Peri Sprays
Peri bottles, also known as irrigation and cleansing bottles, are effective tools for postpartum perineal care. Just fill the containers with warm water and gently press them onto any painful areas in that region. The soft water assists in washing away urine, feces, and bacteria without causing irritation in the region.
Perineal spray, also known as “peri spray,” is a liquid solution that is utilized to calm the perineal region. Frequently containing witch hazel, aloe, and other soothing ingredients, it is commonly used to calm sensitive skin. You apply the solution directly onto the perineum (or vulva).
Dermoplast is typically the recommended form available for purchase. However, it contains lanolin, as well as butane and parabens. It’s simple to create on your own! Below is my easy recipe for a calming spray to use after giving birth. Making it only takes a few minutes and costs much less than buying it at the store!
Hygiene Products
Postpartum hygiene products aid in maintaining cleanliness and comfort during the weeks after giving birth. Some individuals can also help facilitate the healing process. I’ve already brought up a few, but I have additional ones to share.
Postpartum Underwear
Certain women purchase disposable underwear specifically for managing postpartum bleeding. Nonetheless, I do not approve of disposable plastic items.
Period underwear that can be washed is a fantastic option. Certain companies are now producing absorbent underwear designed specifically for new mothers after giving birth. Postpartum pads can be included as well.
Maxi Pads
Common feminine hygiene products such as maxi pads are also effective. Tampons are not advised due to their potential to cause infections and irritate or harm the delicate region. It is advisable to pack some pads in your hospital bag just to be prepared.
Digestive Support
A lot of women observe that their digestive system decreases in speed once their baby is born. Mothers suffer from postpartum constipation for a range of factors. The interaction of hormonal shifts, decreased physical activity, and pain medications can certainly hinder progress. Using commercial stool softeners can help stimulate bowel movements, however, there are other alternatives available.
Taking magnesium citrate powder, Epsom salt baths, or applying magnesium oil on the stomach can also help restart things.
Pain Relief
Many of the products mentioned earlier can help with specific types of pain. Here are some additional postpartum must-haves for different types of pain.
Ice Packs & Heating Pads
New mothers may experience discomfort in the initial weeks after giving birth. Ice packs or cold packs can be used to provide relief for the perineum, a c-section incision, or painful nipples. Creating your own flexible ice pack is a simple task. I have also added instructions for creating a basic cover that can be easily removed and washed.
Hot water bottles and heating pads can provide relief to tense, achy muscles following childbirth. If you’re willing to do it yourself, keep going. You have the option to create your own rice pack heating pad. We have a couple of them because each of my kids created one with my mother.
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