The postpartum period is the time after childbirth.
You’ve delivered, are no longer pregnant, but your hormones and body are still recovering from the last 9 months.
I personally felt that this time period was the least talked during my entire pregnancy journey. In fact it wasn’t even considered until I was about to deliver.
Up until that point, everyone is mostly focused on the bundle of joy that is about to arrive, and are giving lots of gifts for your new baby.
Onesies, bibs, socks, receiving blankets etc. but no one really thinks about what the mother needs after the baby is born.
I didn’t realize how important postpartum care was until it happened and I wish I had known beforehand, which is why I am writing this article.
I want every new mom to be more prepared than I was and to know what exactly to expect and what to get so she can effectively heal.
The postpartum phase is unique to each mom but hopefully the things I mentioned are useful to all.
Below are all the postpartum essentials that I used and would recommend for others.
Comfortable Clothing
After childbirth, your body will go through various changes, some including swelling and discomfort. Comfortable clothing is crucial. Opt for loose-fitting, breathable garments, such as stretchy pants, oversized T-shirts, long nightgown and button-down or front-opening shirts that make breastfeeding (if that is your choice) easier.
I mainly wore loose t-shirts and larger sized sweatpants around the house. As well as pajamas to sleep in.
Sanitary Pads
Heavy-duty sanitary pads designed for postpartum use are essential to manage this bleeding. It’s best to have a variety of pad sizes on hand.
* Please note: I went to my local Walmart before and picked up a pack of Always postpartum underwear. These helped me out tremendously during my postpartum. *
In the days immediately following childbirth, you will experience vaginal bleeding called lochia.
Lochia typically lasts for several weeks and undergoes various changes during this time, each with its own effects on a woman’s body and overall well-being.
A) Physical Effects
1. Immediate Postpartum Stage (Day 1-3)
- Lochia starts as bright red bleeding, similar to a heavy menstrual period. This is known as lochia rubra.
- Effects: Women may experience strong uterine contractions as the uterus begins to shrink back to its pre-pregnancy size. These contractions, called afterpains, can be uncomfortable but are a normal part of the process.
2. Early Postpartum Stage (Days 4-10):
- Lochia transitions to a pinkish or brownish color, becoming less heavy. This stage is referred to as lochia serosa.
- Effects: Women may notice a decrease in bleeding and an improvement in uterine discomfort. It’s a time of healing and adjustment for the body.
3. Late Postpartum Stage (Days 10-6 Weeks):
- Lochia eventually becomes yellowish or white and lessens in quantity. This stage is called lochia alba.
- Effects: Lochia is almost like a light discharge by this point, and women often feel closer to their pre-pregnancy selves. However, the postpartum body is still recovering, and it’s crucial to continue monitoring for any signs of complications.
B) Emotional Impact
The presence of lochia can be a reminder of the recent birth experience. Some women may feel emotional, especially if they had a difficult or traumatic labor and delivery.
C) Physical Discomfort
The continuous flow of lochia, especially during the early stages, may lead to discomfort and frequent pad changes. Some women find this aspect of postpartum challenging, as it can be messy and inconvenient.
D) Hygiene & Self Care
Managing lochia requires good hygiene practices. New mothers need to keep the perineal area clean and dry to prevent infection and discomfort.
E) Monitoring for Complications
Lochia can be a valuable indicator of postpartum health. An abnormal color, odor, or sudden increase in bleeding can signal potential issues like infection or retained placental tissue. It’s crucial to report any concerning changes to a healthcare provider promptly.
F) Breastfeeding and Uterine Health
Breastfeeding can help reduce postpartum bleeding by promoting uterine contractions. This is why some women experience afterpains while nursing.
G) Recovery and Adjustment
The presence of lochia reminds women that their bodies are still in a recovery phase. It serves as a natural indicator that the body is healing and adjusting to the postpartum state.
Perineal Products
If you’ve had a vaginal birth, you may experience discomfort and swelling in the perineal area.
This sensitive area, which includes the tissues between the vaginal opening and the anus, goes through significant changes during childbirth. Here’s a detailed explanation of what women can expect and how to manage this discomfort:
A) Causes of Perineal Discomfort and Swelling
- Trauma during childbirth: The perineal tissues can stretch and sometimes tear during delivery, especially if an episiotomy (a surgical cut to widen the vaginal opening) is performed.
- Bruising: The perineal area may become bruised due to the pressure and stretching it undergoes during childbirth.
- Edema (swelling): Swelling occurs as a result of increased blood flow and fluid retention in the perineal tissues during and after childbirth.
- Stitches: If any tears or an episiotomy were repaired with stitches, these sutures can also contribute to discomfort and swelling.
B) Immediate Postpartum Experience
- Pain: In the hours immediately following childbirth, women may experience significant pain and discomfort in the perineal area. Because I chose to have an epidural during labor I did not feel the pain immediately. However once it wore off I did feel discomfort.
- Swelling: Swelling tends to be most pronounced in the first 24 to 48 hours after delivery. I also experienced swelling like most women do for the first two days post delivery.
C) Management and Relief
- Pain Medication: Healthcare providers may prescribe pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, to manage discomfort. It’s essential to take these medications as directed. I was happy to take pain medication given to me in the hospital and once I went home which helped provide much relief.
- Cool Compresses: Applying ice packs or cool compresses to the perineal area can help reduce swelling and provide relief. Use a clean cloth or ice pack wrapped in a thin towel to avoid direct contact with the skin. In the hospital I was given ice packs wrapped in towels to apply to the area. I also bought Tucks personal cleansing pads and Frida perineal witch hazel pads to help provide immediate relief when I was home.
- Sitz Baths: A sitz bath, which involves soaking the perineal area in warm water, can soothe discomfort and promote healing. Many women find this practice very beneficial. I bought a Sitz Bath for the toilet seat along with Epsom salts to soak the area in. I used it off and on throughout the day whenever I felt sore and it really helped.
- Topical Ointments: Some over-the-counter or prescription ointments, like lidocaine, can provide temporary relief from pain and itching. I did not use any topical ointment as the medication was enough to provide comfort.
- Pain-Free Movement: Rest is crucial during the immediate postpartum period, but gentle movement, such as walking and changing positions, can prevent stiffness and improve circulation. It’s important to take your doctor’s advice however I would turn in my bed from side-to-side and walked around my home a bit throughout the day.
- Kegel Exercises: These pelvic floor exercises can aid in the healing process and improve muscle tone in the perineal area. Again it’s important to take your doctor’s advice on when to begin certain exercises and movements.
D) Long-Term Recovery
- Healing Time: Perineal discomfort and swelling usually begin to subside within a week or two after childbirth. Full healing can take several weeks to a couple of months. It took me after having a normal delivery, about 6-7 weeks of full healing. Everyone has a different healing journey depending on their delivery so don’t feel pressured to get back up and running right away. Let your body heal.
- Stitches Dissolve: If you had stitches, they will dissolve on their own over time. Avoid strenuous activities that could put pressure on the healing area.
- Continued Self-Care: Good hygiene practices, such as patting the perineal area dry after urinating and having bowel movements, can help prevent infection and discomfort. It’s a good idea to have a peri bottle with you. My hospital provided one for me which I used and I also bought the Fridamom upside down peri bottle for home which was a life saver.
Pain Relief Products
Postpartum pain and discomfort are common experiences for women in the days and weeks following childbirth. The severity and duration of these sensations can vary widely depending on factors such as the type of delivery (vaginal or cesarean), any complications during childbirth, and individual pain thresholds. Understanding and managing postpartum pain and discomfort are essential for a smoother and more comfortable recovery.
Here’s a detailed discussion of postpartum pain and discomfort:
A) Vaginal Birth Pain and Discomfort
- Perineal Pain: Women who have had a vaginal birth may experience perineal pain, which is discomfort in the area between the vaginal opening and the anus. This pain can be due to stretching, tearing, or episiotomy during delivery.
- Uterine Contractions: After childbirth, the uterus contracts to return to its pre-pregnancy size. These contractions, known as afterpains, can be painful, especially during breastfeeding.
- Breast Pain: Breast engorgement and nipple tenderness are common during the early days of breastfeeding, contributing to overall discomfort.
B) Cesarean Section (C-Section) Pain and Discomfort
- Incision Pain: Women who undergo a cesarean delivery will experience pain and discomfort at the incision site. This can range from mild to severe and may require medication for pain management.
- Abdominal Pain: The abdominal muscles are also affected, causing pain during activities like sitting up, coughing, or sneezing.
- Gas and Bowel Movements: C-Section patients may experience gas pain due to the surgery’s impact on the digestive system.
C) General Postpartum Pain and Discomfort
- Fatigue: The physical demands of labor and caring for a newborn can lead to exhaustion and overall body fatigue.
- Back Pain: The strain of pregnancy and childbirth can contribute to lower back pain for some women.
- Hemorrhoids: Hemorrhoids, swollen blood vessels in the rectal area, can develop or worsen postpartum due to the pressure exerted during labor.
D) Pain Management and Relief
- Medications: Healthcare providers may prescribe pain medications or recommend over-the-counter options like ibuprofen or acetaminophen to manage pain. It’s essential to follow the prescribed dosage and recommendations. Again like mentioned above, I was prescribed medication in the hospital and used OTC pain meds when at home.
- Ice and Heat: Ice packs can help reduce swelling and numb pain, while heat packs or warm baths can soothe sore muscles and provide relief.
- Hydration and Nutrition: Staying hydrated and consuming nutritious meals can support the body’s healing process and provide energy.
- Rest and Positioning: Adequate rest is crucial for recovery. Finding comfortable positions for rest and nursing can help alleviate discomfort.
- Gentle Movement: Gradual and gentle physical activity, such as short walks, can help improve circulation and prevent stiffness.
E) Duration of Postpartum Pain and Discomfort
- Pain and discomfort are most pronounced in the immediate postpartum period, typically lasting for the first few days.
- Perineal discomfort, if present, can gradually subside over several weeks.
- For women who have undergone a cesarean section, recovery can take longer, with discomfort potentially lasting for several weeks to a few months.
For myself, I had a normal delivery so the pain only lasted a few days post delivery. I was given pain medication while in the hospital and at home I took ibuprofen for relief.
Consult your healthcare provider for suitable pain relief options, which may include over-the-counter pain relievers or prescribed medications.
Stool Softeners
Constipation is a common postpartum issue, often due to pain medications and hormonal changes. Stool softeners can help make bowel movements more comfortable and prevent straining.
Talk to your doctor about which stool softeners you should use.
Nursing Bras and Pads
If you plan to breastfeed, nursing bras are essential for easy access and support. Nursing pads can absorb any leakage between feedings and help keep you dry.
Unfortunately, I was not able to breastfeed so I didn’t require a nursing bra.
For those who want a proper nursing bras, plenty are available instore.
There are a number of nursing pads available instore and online. I bought the Lansinoh nursing pads (when I thought I was going to breastfeed) which I found were good for the little time I used them.
Nipple Cream or Lanolin
Breastfeeding can lead to sore or cracked nipples. Nipple cream or lanolin provides relief and helps heal and protect your nipples during breastfeeding.
I did buy lanolin (again when I was preparing to breastfeed). If you are like me and can’t breastfeed it’s still a good cream to have. I used it for my baby’s dry lips and dry skin.
Sitz Bath
A sitz bath basin that fits over the toilet is a helpful tool for perineal care. Filling it with warm water can ease discomfort, promote healing, and provide a soothing sensation, especially after a vaginal birth.
Again, I bought a Sitz Bath for the toilet seat along with Epsom salts from our local Walmart. I soaked the area on and off throughout my postpartum period.
Hydration
Staying well-hydrated is crucial for your recovery, as it aids healing and supports milk production if you’re breastfeeding. Keep a water bottle nearby and drink plenty of fluids throughout the day.
It’s also important to hydrate yourself to prevent constipation.
I would drink water regularly as it kept my energy up as well.
Healthy Meals and Snacks
Nutrient-dense meals and snacks are great to have at home once baby arrives.
Try making meals before baby arrives and freezing them. This will come in handy and you’ll be grateful you did this.
Consider stocking up on items like granola bars, yogurt, fresh fruit, and nuts to keep your energy levels up.
I’m really happy I did this beforehand. Having food on hand was great for me and my husband so we could spend more time together with our new baby rather than shopping for food.
Supportive Shoes
Comfortable and supportive footwear is essential, especially if you have swelling or discomfort in your feet and legs. Slip-on shoes with supportive arch can help you move around comfortably.
Personally I wore sneakers outside and slide indoors. Both of these provided me with the support I needed at that time.
Postpartum Belly Wrap or Support Band
Some women find postpartum support bands or belly wraps helpful for abdominal support and to alleviate back pain. These items can provide gentle compression and support to the abdominal muscles.
I did purchase a support band (belt). However, I didn’t use it as I didn’t have any back pain.
Postpartum Journal
One thing I wish I had done but didn’t end up doing was writing down what I was going through at that time.
The postpartum period is quite the journey and having a safe space to express myself without fear of judgement would have helped me further in my healing process.
There are lots of emotions, physical changes and not to mention a new baby to take care of so to say I was overwhelmed would have been an understatement.
Writing in a journal could have helped me process my emotions more clearly.
Summary
While these postpartum essentials are valuable for most new mothers, it’s important to acknowledge that everyone’s postpartum experience is unique.
Consulting with your healthcare provider and seeking personalized advice based on your specific needs and circumstances is crucial to ensure a successful and comfortable postpartum recovery.
