Having your first child elicits a wide range of feelings, from joy and extreme excitement to nervousness and even a little bit of terror. No matter what age you are, there are a lot of unknowns that contribute to those anxious feelings.
While you’ll spend a lot of time getting ready to bring the baby home, it’s easy to forget that you need a few essentials. Giving birth is hard work, and while you’re recovering, you’ll need to take care of both the baby and yourself, which can be a lot.
While recapturing your stylish figure is one of those things that you can worry about down the road, there is plenty to do as soon as the baby arrives. Take the time to get a few of these postpartum essentials to help take care of yourself while taking care of your newborn.
1. For Those Aches & Pains
When it comes to self-care at home, one of the first things new moms overlook is the aches, pains, and soreness they’re going to experience in the first few days out of the hospital. A heating pad and cold pack are a couple of essential items that you should definitely have on hand.
2. For Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding can be tough. Just as you’ll reduce the prominence and tenderness of your c section scar, you need to take care of your nipples when breastfeeding. Chapping and general soreness can happen even in the best of scenarios, and having nipple butter on hand can help alleviate that discomfort.
One thing that can make feeding a little easier is putting together a breastfeeding kit. This can consist of the nipple cream, a nursing cover and pillow, a burp cloth, your breast pump, and other necessary items. Whether you’re going to a friend’s house or heading out for a Valentine’s dinner, you’ll be prepared.
3. Comfortable Tops
Not only do you need a quality nursing bra, having a decent selection of tanks and other comfortable tops that are good for both around the house and when out in public is imperative.
4. Nursing Pads
After giving birth, you’re going to experience a bit of bleeding for a little while. Since tampons at this point are ill-advised, you need to keep plenty of heavy maxi pads or period panties at the house.
5. A Swaddle Blanket
These not only keep your baby snuggly wrapped up as if they are back in the womb, but they can also allow you to get some much-needed rest because they help your newborn self-soothe. Plus, swaddle blankets can ease them into sleep faster.
6. Changing Pad
There are no two ways around it; there will be times when you’re changing a diaper and your baby decides it is the perfect time to spit up. The cool air can also result in a pee fountain. Or, your newborn may prefer to poop once the diaper is off. Regardless, it’s a good idea to invest in a reusable changing pad that you can throw in the wash whenever it’s dirty.
7. Diaper Bag or Purse
You’re going to need something to carry the majority of the above in. While almost every new mom is well aware that they’ll need a diaper bag, few consider the fact that it’s not all that easy to carry one AND a purse. If you want to make it as easy as possible and lessen the strain on your shoulders and neck, find a diaper bag that can provide double duty. These days, you’re guaranteed to find one that matches your style and covers all of your needs.
You and your newborn will spend a lot of time together, and as such, you’re going to need quite a few essentials. The list above is a really good start and should help save you some headache and much treasured time.
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