Bringing a baby into the world is a powerful, beautiful experience—but let’s be real: the postpartum recovery afterward can be rough. You’ve just done the most physically demanding thing your body has ever accomplished, and now it’s time to heal. While your newborn will take up most of your attention (and rightly so!), you can’t forget taking care of yourself, especially during the early postpartum weeks. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need after delivery, starting with the humble yet essential postpartum pads.
This post contains affiliate links. When you make purchases through links in the post, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting this blog! To learn more, you can read my full disclosure. Please note: The views on this website are based on my personal opinions and experiences. I am not giving any medical advice. This article with postpartum pads and other essentials is for informational and entertainment purposes only.
What Every New Mom Should Have for Those First Healing Weeks – Postpartum Essentials Checklist + Free Downloadable PDF
1. Postpartum Pads: Not Your Average Sanitary Napkin
Let’s start with the bleeding: It’s called lochia, and it’s a mix of blood, mucus, and uterine tissue. It can last 4 to 6 or more weeks post-birth. The flow is intense at first, way more than a typical period.
Here are your postpartum pad options:
- Hospital-grade pads: These are huge and super absorbent. Take as many as the hospital will give you.
- Maxi pads: Think overnight, heavy-duty. Stock up on unscented ones.
- Postpartum underwear pads like Always Discreet: These are a combo of pad and undies in one, and many moms (including me) swear by them for the first week or two.
- Reusable cloth pads: An eco-friendly option, though they require more maintenance.
Unscented is key to avoid irritation. Expect to change them often in the first few days.
2. Perineal Ice Packs
Tears, swelling, and soreness down there are incredibly common, even if you didn’t have stitches. Ice packs will be your best friend in the first few days. You can:
- Buy ready-to-use perineal cold packs (Frida Mom makes great ones).
- Make your own with frozen padsicles—just add aloe vera gel and witch hazel to pads, wrap, and freeze.
3. Peri Bottle (AKA: The Spray Bottle You Didn’t Know You’d Love)
Wiping after birth is… painful. Enter the peri bottle. Fill it with warm water and spray as you pee to dilute the sting and clean gently. The hospital usually gives you one, but the angled-neck bottles (like the one from Mama Ninja) are way easier to use.
4. Witch Hazel Pads or Spray
Witch hazel soothes inflammation, helps with hemorrhoids, and promotes healing. You can:
- Line your pads with Tucks pads. I used them and they helped a lot with the cooling down there!
- Use a witch hazel spray on your perineum or a pad.
5. Stool Softeners
Nobody wants to talk about the first postpartum poop—but it’s real, and it’s scary. Especially if you have stitches, the fear of straining is intense. Stool softeners (like Colace) are gentle and usually safe if approved by your provider.
6. Perineal Healing Spray or Balm
A gentle perineal healing spray or balm provides extra relief down there. Look for natural ingredients like witch hazel, lavender, and aloe vera. It’s cooling, refreshing, and perfect for those in-between pad changes.
7. Comfortable, High-Waisted Underwear
Soft, stretchy, and breathable underwear is a must. High-waisted styles are ideal for the postpartum body. I recommend checking Maternity & Postpartum Briefs by Kindred Bravely.
8. Nursing Pads
Leaks happen—especially in the early days when your milk is regulating. Nursing pads (disposable or reusable) are crucial to keep your clothes dry and your nipples protected.
9. Nipple Cream (if breastfeeding)
If you’re thinking of breastfeeding, get prepared. Your nipples will thank you for having lanolin cream or organic nipple balm on hand. Apply after every feeding to prevent cracking and soreness.
10. Energy Snacks
Healing requires fuel. You’ll be surprised how often you forget to eat or hydrate. Keep healthy snacks like granola bars, trail mix, or lactation cookies nearby. For instance, I used to keep some granola bars or fruit next to my bed for those midnight cravings while feeding the baby.
11. Water Bottle
You will need a giant water bottle. Hydration helps with milk supply, energy, and healing. I remember how thirsty I was all the time in these first few weeks of breastfeeding.
12. Sleep or Nursing Bras
Comfort is non-negotiable. Choose wire-free, stretchy bras that you can sleep in and that allow easy access if you’re breastfeeding. I recommend trying Kindred Bravely Nursing Bras.
13. Nursing Pillow
If you are breastfeeding, a nursing pillow is a must! In the beginning, I started breastfeeding using my pillow under the baby, and I didn’t feel very comfortable. Later, I changed it with a Boppy nursing pillow, and my back thanked me.
14. Donut Cushion or Sitz Bath
If sitting feels like a chore, a donut pillow or a warm sitz bath can bring sweet, sweet relief. Sitz baths also help with healing and hygiene.
15. Postpartum Tracker or Journal
Tracking your mood, bleeding, sleep, and baby’s feeding can be surprisingly helpful. Use a simple journal or download a postpartum tracking app to stay on top of your health and routine. For example, I used the “What to Expect App” for tracking the baby’s sleep and feedings.
16. Postpartum Belly Wrap or Support Band
Some moms swear by belly wraps to help their core feel supported, especially after a c-section. While not essential for everyone, they can provide extra stability as your body adjusts.
17. C-Section Care Kit (if applicable)
If you had a C-section, caring for your incision is essential. You’ll need:
- High-waisted pants
- Mild wound wash
- Optional: silicone scar sheets for healing
Avoid anything that rubs or irritates the area.
18. A Strong Support System
The truth is, no product can replace the value of emotional and physical support. Ask for help. Lean on friends, family, postpartum doulas, lactation consultants—whoever helps you feel more like yourself.
Final Thoughts
Postpartum recovery is not one-size-fits-all, but being prepared makes a huge difference. These 18 essentials aren’t about perfection; they’re about supporting your body as it heals and allowing yourself to rest, recover, and adjust to this beautiful, wild new chapter.
You’ve done something extraordinary. Now it’s time to take care of you.
What other postpartum essentials do you recommend? Let me know in the comments below. Please share this post on social media! Thank you!
