Recovery after giving birth is a day-by-day process of discovery. You’ll become familiar with various parts of your body and should consider the best ways to maintain your health and wellbeing. You may ask, what exactly should I have after the birth of my baby? We’ve outlined a list below that will set you up for success and get you prepared for a safe recovery and fourth trimester.
Post-Vaginal Birth
Starting with the day you give birth to your baby through about the first six weeks, you’ll experience a wide range of symptoms. Expect to have some degree of bleeding that starts off bright red, then lightens in color over time, perineal pain, sore nipples (if breastfeeding or chest feeding), fatigue, and/or constipation. As nurses, we recommend this list of tried-and-true items that have gotten many a new mama through her vaginal birth recovery process.
Maternity Pads
Your uterine lining protected your baby and your placenta. It will now shed after birth which causes vaginal bleeding known as lochia. You’ll have bleeding for 3-10 days, followed by spotting for another six weeks. Use maternity pads exclusively during this time because tampons can introduce bacteria into the vaginal canal.
Perineal Spray
An over-the-counter local pain spray, ointment, cream, or pad will help with postpartum perineal pain. Some perineal sprays contain benzocaine, ale, lanolin, and menthol, which soothe and moisturize damaged skin.
Peri Bottle
Post-pregnancy hygiene is vital to prevent perineal and genital tract infections. This is especially important if you had vaginal tearing during birth. Add warm water in a peri bottle to rinse your perineum or use an antiseptic solution during and after urination. This method will assist with reducing burning and keeping the area clean.
Shower and Sitz Bath
Take a warm shower once a day for 15-20 minutes to relax and use a sitz bath to ease perineal following vaginal birth. Talk with your pregnancy care provider about taking warm baths that may also support the relaxation of muscles, reduce itching, and soothe soreness.
Stool Softeners
Medication given during and after birth can cause you to have weak abdominal muscles and constipation. Drink plenty of water, fill up on fiber, and take short walks to get your system back on track.
Perineal Cooling Pad
Apply a cooling pad to your perineum every couple of hours for 1-2 days following vaginal birth. This reduces swelling and discomfort. Some perineal cooling pads absorb bleeding and don’t require freezing for use.
Overnight Nursing Bra
It is essential to wear a well-fitted and comfortable nursing bra post-pregnancy. Cotton/spandex blend products are excellent because they’re soft and stretchy. Avoid bras with hooks, plastics, or metals, to enhance your comfort.
Nursing Cooling Pads
You may experience sore or cracked nipples while nursing. A cooling pad can soothe and heal your nipples. Consider storing them in the refrigerator for added cooling.
Organic Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is great for soothing sore nipples as it moisturizes irritated skin.
Post-Cesarean Birth
The physical and emotional recovery from cesarean birth typically takes longer than from vaginal birth. Four to six weeks at home may pass by before you feel somewhat back to normal. Stash these products for extra help and support.
Cesarean Scar Prevention
Rub on fragrance-free creams and scar ointments to assist in reducing the appearance of your cesarean scar and promote its healing.
Postpartum Belly Binder
A belly binder can support your stomach, and the incision site, by helping decrease pain and discomfort following cesarean surgery.
Supportive Underwear
Wear high-waisted, stretchy, and breathable underwear. Make sure you’re comfortable, your pad is secure, and that the underwear doesn’t rub across your incision
Nursing Pillow
Wrap a nursing pillow around your tender stomach to keep pressure. Additionally, use it when sneezing or coughing to provide additional abdominal support. Consider a pillow that may also provide back and lumbar support after your cesarean surgery.
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