One of the things I wanted to get done during the third trimester was create a postpartum essentials kit for my bathroom. I mean, it’s sort of necessary, because I hear that giving birth is NOT pretty. When I found out I had to put together some items for postpartum, I freaked out a bit. I read so many articles about fertility and pregnancy that I completely forgot to read anything about after-baby. That changed one day when I spent hours just reading blogs and forums, and chatting in depth about the subject with my sister-in-law.
I eventually pulled together my own little kit that I’m sharing with you today. If you’re a soon to be mama, I hope you find this post super helpful. If you’re not expecting, definitely share this post with someone who is!
1. Nipple cream: First up is nipple cream, which is an essential if you’re planning to breastfeed. There’s a bunch of options on the market, but I chose the version from Earth Mama Angel Baby. It’s one of the more natural options and is lanolin-free, non-toxic, non-gmo, organic, clinically tested and hospital recommended. No need to wipe it off before nursing, since the balm doesn’t contain petroleum products, mineral oil, phthalates or parabens.
2. Nursing pads: In terms of nursing pads, you can go the disposable or reusable route. After talking with a bunch of moms, I decided to start with the reusable ones. Reusable pads are more cost-effective, absorbent, and are made of natural fibers which can provide better air circulation. Disposable pads can sometimes contain nasty chemicals and typically have a sticky back to adhere them to your bra, which can affect breathability.
3. Nursing bras: My nursing bras aren’t technically a part of my bathroom kit, but I wanted to mention it in this post anyway because they are pretty important. I’m planning on buying nursing tanks, but purchased a few bras to start with. These ones from Amazon have 4.5 stars and over 4,400 reviews! Although I’m clearly not nursing yet, I’ve actually already started wearing them on the weekends because they are more comfy than my underwire bras. I bought the pack of 3 beige bras, but you can get them in black or pink too.
4. Fridababy “The Fridet”: For the first week or two after giving birth, going to the bathroom can apparently really burn {makes sense!}. Using warm water to cleanse can help lessen the pain. The hospital will most likely provide plastic peri bottles which I have, but I’m also going to purchase “The Fridet” by Fridababy. I like that it has a curved nozzle so I won’t have to awkwardly lean over and probably miss every time I go to the bathroom.
5. Dark colored undies: Another item that’s important postpartum are dark colored undies. I plan to use the mesh ones at the hospital and probably for a week after I come home, but after that I’ll need something else. There’s bound to be some bleeding for weeks after birth, so I didn’t want to buy anything really expensive. A lot of people in forums recommend the cheap packs from Hanes or Fruit of the Loom. However, they ended up being almost the same price as the nicer options at Victoria’s Secret. I bought 7 dark colored undies during VS’s 7 for $25 sale, and I’m so glad that I did. Why not buy something that you feel comfortable and somewhat cute in?!
6. Tucks medicated witch hazel pads: I’ve done a whole post on witch hazel benefits, but had no idea that it’s important for after-baby! You just place a Tucks pad into your maxi pad and go about your day. I’m also keeping a large bottle of witch hazel on hand in case I run out of the Tucks and need something in a pinch. I’ve read a lot about these things called “padsicles” which involve you putting witch hazel and aloe vera into a pad and freezing it. It seems like a lot of work to me and I don’t have a ton of room in my freezer as is, so I’m going to try the Tucks first.
7. Dermaplast: Before talking with my SIL, I had never heard of Dermaplast. It’s a medicated spray that’s apparently a godsend for postpartum. It helps heal/numb your pelvic area and provide some instant, cooling relief. Tip: Make sure to purchase Dermaplast with the blue lid not the red. The red supposedly burns so bad!
8. Motrin/Advil: Make sure to include some form of pain medication in your postpartum kit. Your body is going to hurt for a while as everything is going back to its normal position. I personally prefer Advil. If you need something stronger {or if you have a C-section}, you’ll probably be able to get a prescription from your doctor.
9. Maxi pads: There’s going to be a lot of bleeding postpartum, so pads are an absolute necessity. I have a bunch of different sizes in my kit – from thick overnights to ultra-slim liners. I don’t expect to go anywhere exciting for the first few weeks after baby gets here, so I’m not too concerned if the pads feel like huge diapers. I’m good as long they are doing their job. Ya feel me?!
10. Button-down pjs: If you plan on breastfeeding, button-down pjs will make the process so much easier. In fact… even if you aren’t planning to breastfeed, treat yourself to some new loungewear. You deserve it! I plan to pretty much live in pjs and comfy clothes for a while, so I stocked up on my favorites from the Gilligan & O’Malley line at Target {not sponsored!}. I bought this black button-down set to wear in the hospital and plan to also buy this nightgown. The fabric is so soft and it washes really well. Plus, it’s very affordable!
11. Preparation H: Nothing much to say here. Hemorrhoids are no fun and Prep H will be your best friend.
// If you’re a mama and have recommendations for anything I mentioned above, or if I’m forgetting something, please let me know!
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I wish I knew about the “padsicles” with both my girls. I had so much pain the cold might have helped.
Hi Elise! Thanks for reading. Yes, the padsicles seem really helpful. Not sure I’ll use them though, so I plan to maybe make just a few.