We are fully aware that every woman goes through a different birthing situation and therefore, their postpartum experience may be different. Here is a list of postpartum essentials that you may find helpful:
- Period pads/ maternity pads as you may experience heavy bleeding postpartum
- Breastfeeding pads whether you have chosen to breastfeed or not, but you may still experience leaks when your milk comes through.
- Water bottle with straw to keep you hydrated and to make it easier to drink whilst holding your baby
- Energy snacks that will keep you going during those first few weeks
- Maternity bras to help you breastfeed with ease if you have chosen to do so
- Painkillers to help ease the pain from delivery or c section. These should be provided by your healthcare team, but it is useful to have them at home as well. Please always read the label for the right dosage.
- Breastfeeding nipple cream that can help to soothe cracked nipples.
- Disposable underwear during the first few weeks as you may experience heavy bleeding
- Waist high underwear if you have just had a c section so it goes over your wound.
- Witch hazel pads that can help blood vessels to shrink if you experience haemorrhoids.
- Perineal spray to help if you have had stitches that may become sore and itchy.
- Epsom salt which can help soothe aches and pains in your body post birth.
- Snacks that will give you energy like dried peaches or dates. We have talked about foods that have been mentioned in the Quran and hadith in previous posts.
- Multivitamins as these are still important to take post birth especially if you are breastfeeding
- Breastfeeding pillow if you find this more comfortable to feed your baby
- Our favourite postpartum item has got to be an organised caddy with handles that you can carry around with you from room to room which includes all your postpartum essentials. This can be packed with your snacks, water bottle, medicine, pads and bits for the baby too like nappy changing essentials, change of clothes and muslins.