What Should I Buy for My Postpartum Survival Kit?

Preparing for the arrival of your baby involves more than just packing your hospital bag and making sure you have all the essentials for your newborn. It also includes preparing for the postpartum period, which can be a time of significant physical and emotional changes. One of the most helpful ways to navigate this transitional time is by putting together a postpartum survival kit. This kit is a collection of items that will support your recovery, comfort, and mental wellbeing after childbirth.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you should include in your postpartum survival kit to make sure you’re well-prepared for the weeks after delivery. We’ll also highlight how taking care of your postpartum needs ties into antenatal care, pregnancy care, and antenatal support. Let’s dive in.

Why Should You Prepare a Postpartum Survival Kit?

The postpartum period can be both exciting and challenging. After giving birth, your body will undergo numerous changes as it heals, adjusts, and rebalances. Whether you’ve had a vaginal delivery or a caesarean section, the right products can provide much-needed comfort and aid in your recovery. Planning ahead allows you to focus on bonding with your baby instead of worrying about missing essential supplies.

During your antenatal appointments, it’s important to discuss your plans for postpartum care with your healthcare provider. While some items in your kit are standard for everyone, others may be recommended based on your specific delivery experience or health needs. For example, if you’ve had a pregnancy massage or are planning to continue your antenatal yoga practice, you might want to add specific items to support your ongoing self-care.

Essential Items for Your Postpartum Survival Kit

Here’s a comprehensive list of the must-have items to include in your postpartum survival kit. These will help ensure your recovery is as smooth as possible and that you have everything you need at hand for your physical and emotional wellbeing.

1. Maternity Pads and Adult Diapers

After childbirth, it’s common to experience lochia, which is the vaginal discharge that occurs as your body sheds the lining of the uterus. This can last for several weeks and may be similar to a heavy period, so it’s crucial to have plenty of maternity pads or adult diapers on hand. These pads are designed to be larger and more absorbent than regular sanitary pads to handle the flow.

Many women find that disposable maternity pads are more comfortable and convenient for the first few days post-birth, while others prefer washable pads for the long-term. Your antenatal care provider can guide you on what’s best for your needs.

2. Perineal Care Products

If you’ve had a vaginal delivery, your perineum (the area between your vagina and anus) may be sore or swollen. It’s common to experience tearing or need an episiotomy, which will require extra care during healing. Here are some essential items for perineal care:

Cooling pads or ice packs: These can help reduce swelling and provide relief. You can place them inside your maternity pads for extra comfort.

Perineal spray or witch hazel pads: Witch hazel is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, which can soothe discomfort and reduce swelling.

Sitz bath: A sitz bath is a shallow bath that allows you to soak your perineal area, promoting healing and reducing pain.

3. Pain Relief for Postpartum Recovery

Whether you’ve had a vaginal birth or a caesarean section, pain relief will be necessary as your body recovers. Over-the-counter painkillers, such as paracetamol or ibuprofen, are often recommended for managing discomfort after birth. Always check with your healthcare provider before taking any medication to ensure it’s safe, especially if you’re breastfeeding.

For those who prefer natural remedies, many women find relief from pregnancy massage or relaxation during pregnancy techniques, which can be continued postpartum with a qualified therapist’s guidance. Some people also find aromatherapy or warm compresses to be beneficial for soothing aches and pains.

4. Nursing Bras and Pads

If you plan to breastfeed, nursing bras and breast pads are essential. Nursing bras provide support and easy access for breastfeeding sessions. Look for comfortable options with soft fabric, adjustable straps, and no underwires, as your breasts may change in size and sensitivity after birth.

Breast pads are absorbent pads that you can wear in your bra to catch any breast milk that leaks between feedings. Many women find it helpful to have both disposable and washable options available.

5. Comfortable Clothing

After birth, you’ll want comfortable clothing that makes it easy to nurse or pump, while still feeling comfortable in your new postpartum body. Opt for loose, breathable clothing that won’t irritate any stitches or scars. Many women find maternity leggings and loose dresses or tops to be their go-to choices. Look for clothes that have easy access for breastfeeding, such as button-down shirts or nursing-friendly tops.

Additionally, having soft, cosy slippers or socks and a robe can help you feel comfortable during your recovery at home. Your antenatal care provider may also have suggestions for clothing that helps with physical comfort post-birth.

6. Breastfeeding Essentials

For those choosing to breastfeed, there are a few additional items that can make the experience more comfortable:

Breastfeeding pillow: This supportive pillow can help position your baby properly during feedings, alleviating pressure on your back and arms.

Nipple cream: Breastfeeding can cause sore or cracked nipples, so having a high-quality nipple cream like lanolin or coconut oil can help soothe and protect the skin.

Breast pump: If you plan to express milk, having a breast pump on hand is important. You can choose between manual or electric pumps, depending on your preferences and needs.

7. Snacks and Hydration

The postpartum period can leave you feeling tired, and breastfeeding can leave you feeling particularly hungry and thirsty. Keeping healthy snacks on hand, such as granola bars, dried fruit, nuts, and crackers, is a great way to stay nourished. Drinking plenty of water is also essential for milk production and overall wellbeing.

Consider adding hydration tablets or electrolyte drinks to your kit to maintain hydration during this busy period.

8. Mental Health and Relaxation Aids

The postpartum period can also be an emotional rollercoaster. Many women experience mood swings, stress, or even postpartum depression. Including items that promote relaxation and mental wellbeing in your survival kit can make a big difference.

Aromatherapy oils: Essential oils such as lavender and chamomile are known for their calming properties and can help you unwind.

A good book or journal: Writing down your thoughts or reading a book can help provide a mental escape and process your feelings.

Postpartum support groups: Sometimes, joining a local or online antenatal support group can be immensely helpful for sharing experiences and learning from others.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to seek professional support from a mental health professional or your healthcare provider.

9. Supportive Underwear

Postpartum support underwear is designed to provide extra support to your belly and pelvic region as it heals. These items are especially helpful after a caesarean section, as they help reduce swelling and offer gentle compression. Many women opt for high-waisted maternity briefs or compression shorts.

10. A Plan for Visitors and Help

Having a postpartum support system in place is essential, especially during those early days at home. Organising your visitors, asking for help, and setting boundaries can help ensure that you have the space and time you need to recover while bonding with your baby. Be sure to talk with your partner, family, or friends about how they can assist with daily tasks or provide emotional support.

Preparing for Postpartum Care Through Antenatal Education

As part of your antenatal care journey, it’s important to prepare for the postpartum period before your baby arrives. Consider attending antenatal classes or antenatal education sessions to learn more about what to expect after childbirth. These classes can provide valuable information about postpartum recovery, breastfeeding, newborn care, and mental health. It’s important to prepare both physically and emotionally for the changes that will occur in your body and life once your baby arrives.

A well-stocked postpartum survival kit can make the early days and weeks after childbirth more manageable and less stressful. By preparing ahead, you can focus on your recovery, your baby, and your mental wellbeing. The items mentioned here will support your physical healing, comfort, and overall wellbeing as you navigate the challenges of the postpartum period.

Remember, everyone’s postpartum experience is unique, so feel free to customise your kit according to your needs. With the right preparation and support, you’ll be ready for whatever comes your way.