Postpartum Mama Must-Haves

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Funny story – my postpartum supplies were still in my amazon cart when I went into labor this time around (read about Waylon’s birth story here) BUT I would have packed them had I already had them… or would I have? I’ve seen a trend lately saying there are “type a” and “type b” moms, and I think the more kids that I have, the more type b I become, haha!

But first, let’s talk about the loungewear set in the photo above. They are the most comfortable pajamas you’ll find – they feel like you’re wearing a cloud. They’re made from bamboo, so they are lightweight, breathable and temperature-regulating (thankfully, because those postpartum night sweats are a doozy). They are nursing-friendly with functional buttons and pockets, and also come in short sleeve and tons of color options.

Cozy Earth sells clothing for women, men and kids, along with slippers, socks, bedding, bath towels, robes, blankets, pillows, furniture and more. Use my code CE-SYDNEYMEEK to get 40% off (code will already be applied to your cart if you click the link).

I believe the top two most important things to do postpartum are REST and eat NOURISHING foods. With my first baby, I felt like I was so eager to get up and out of the house as soon as possible, and I’ve learned to slow down more each time. Food is also important, so prep freezer meals ahead of time or ask your friends to set up a meal train! Staying hydrated and getting enough protein is key to providing maximum nutrients for your baby if you’re breastfeeding. I’ll share my oat ball recipe at the bottom of this post, they are my go-to snack postpartum!

Some common harmful ingredients in postpartum items include propylene glycol, methylparaben, propylaraben, benzocaine butane, and polysorbate 85. I don’t know about you, but I sure don’t want endocrine disruptors and carcinogens anywhere near where I’m trying to heal, which is why I’m sharing some better alternatives below!

FOR THE PAIN:

Honestly, I rely on heavy duty ibuprofen the first 2 days, then switch to Boiron arnica for pain relief after that.

WishGarden AfterEase is a MUST for the postpartum cramps. They really do get worse with each child!

TAKE CARE DOWN THERE:

Did you know ice packs or padsicles are actually not necessary? Applying ice can impair your body’s natural wound healing process by constricting blood vessels, decreasing mobility of your muscles, decreasing circulation and healing, and damaging delicate tissue. You also want to be cautious if you had stitches to not get them too wet so that they don’t start dissolving prematurely. A peri bottle (or this Fridamom one) is super helpful for quick rinsing.

I’ve used this Earth Mama perineal spray every postpartum. Some people put theirs in the fridge, but I think it’s cooling enough at room temperature to relieve pain.

The Earth Mama perineal balm is helpful too after the initial healing has begun and/or for hemorrhoids.

An herbal sitz bath is another must-have! Just be cautious with soaking over 30 seconds if you have stitches for the same reasons above.

For those first few days, I am typically living in these Rael organic disposable underwear, along with using Natracare maternity pads. Once the bleeding slows down, Rael organica pads are sufficient (and free from harmful chemicals!)

FOR THE BELLY:

Did you know magnesium can help with cramps and digestion? I like to use it as a spray to easily spritz across my abdomen, and use a lotion to rub on my belly or along my legs if they’re feeling restless.

I also like to use an organic belly butter or tallow balm to help with healing stretch marks or to relieve nipple pain those first few days of nursing.

I prefer to buy these products at Urban Farm Collection, but linked Amazon products here for you too. UFC is my favorite one-stop shop for bath products, skin care, supplements, all the things! The ancestral balm is the best for a healing/nourishing tallow. Use my code SYDNEYMEEK for a discount!

FOR BREASTFEEDING:

At first I thought the Boppy pillow was overrated, but it’s essential for night feedings! I got this cute cow print cover from Etsy.

Organic cotton nursing pads are helpful for leakage, and these Kindred bravely organic cotton bras are my favorite!

For nursing pain, Earth Mama organic nipple butter (or straight up breastmilk) can be applied, or I’ve also recently heard these silver nursing cups are super helpful. I actually had zero nursing pain this time around (not sure how, but what a pleasant surprise!) so I haven’t gotten to try them.

The Haakaa silicone breast milk collector is a MUST for those first few days to collect any colostrum or milk once it starts coming in. When you’re nursing on one side, you can attach this to your other breast to collect any extra leakage to start building a freezer stash! (p.s. you do NOT have to build an enormous freezer stash in order to be considered a good mom… you may not even need it!)

And then for pumping, the Spectra is my favorite (you can actually use Aeroflow Insurance to check if your insurance will cover a pump and supplies, and they’ll send it directly to you!) The Medela manual pump is easy for early mornings or if I feel a little more engorged during the day. Lastly, these Matyz glass bottles are my favorite for pumping and storing milk. I also use these for offering a bottle to my baby, using the nipples that came with my pump or the Mam brand.

Also, if you haven’t tried Pink Stork’s postpartum recovery tea, it’s packed with herbs to help with recovery and re-balancing your hormones (and it’s delicious).

OAT BALL RECIPE

Here is my recipe for the oat balls! These are full of ingredients to help increase milk production and provide the energy needed to support a growing baby. I used to call them Boobie Bites until a friend told me her daughter shouted “boobie bites” at a bible study, and I figured that sounded exactly like something my oldest would do, haha!