Postpartum can be a tricky time! There’s the pains, the emotions, the sleep deprivation and of course a brand new human to look after. Now that I’m almost out of the recovery period I thought I would share some of my favourite postpartum essentials. All of these things have been used a LOT, basically everyday! I had a vaginal birth and breastfeed, so my list of essentials is specific to that.
BodyICE Woman – Perineum Strip Ice/Heat Pack
I tossed up buying this for a while and 100% do NOT regret it. It can be used hot (heated in the microwave) during labour or can be frozen and used in recovery. I kept mine in the freezer and used it a LOT over the first few days, then used it every time after I used the toilet for the first few weeks. I tore and had stitches so I found it SO GOOD.
Get it at Bundles for Bumps for $35.
BONUS: Shelley from Bundles for Bumps has offered you 10% off site wide! Just use the code BRIT10 in the checkout.
Breastfeeding nightie/PJs
The day I found out I was pregnant I was going on a shopping trip to Dunedin and bought a breastfeeding nightie from Peter Alexander. I have literally wore it every single night since I’ve had the babe, making sure that on the days I’ve washed it, it’s been dry by night time to use again. Unfortunately the one I have is no longer in stock and I haven’t found any like it but Milkbar have some awesome options for breastfeeding PJs!
Maternity PJs from Milkbar – $75
Medela Maternity Sleep Bra
I got gifted a Medela Maternity Sleep Bra during pregnancy and found it great for keeping those pregnancy boobs comfortable while sleeping. I’m usually a no-bra kind of gal at night but that’s just not a good idea with leaking milk! This bra is perfect for keeping breast pads in place, and super easy to pull to the side and for feeds at 3am.
Get it at Babycity for $41.99.
Kmart Breastfeeding Singlet
I’m a little embarrassed to admit that I haven’t actually bought myself any breastfeeding bras yet. I know. Shame on me. I wanted to wait until after my milk came in and then I realised how tricky shopping with a newborn can be. Luckily, I nabbed a few of these breastfeeding singlets from Kmart when I was pregnant. They’re great for wearing under t-shirts, as it means your belly is always covered when you pull the t-shirt up. They’re super comfortable, and really practical! While you’re at it, get yourself these maternity knickers too!
Ever Sweet Baby Reusable Breastpads
Aaron’s sister gave me some Ever Sweet Baby reusable breast pads when I first announced I was pregnant. When my milk came in I tried some disposable breast pads first and soon ditched them when my nips stuck… ouch. I’ve used my Ever Sweet Baby ones ever since! They come in a pack of three pairs, and have the prettiest designs!
Get them from Ever Sweet Baby for $24.00.
BONUS: Jen from Ever Sweet Baby has given me a discount code for you! Use the code EVERSOBRITTY for 10% off!
DIY Peri Spray
As you probably already know, I’m a big essential oil fan. I was super excited to use my oils to help with my recovery. My friend Jenna shared a recipe for a DIY Peri Spray. I made it up and used it every time after the loo and plan to until the bottle is all out. I definitely noticed a difference when I started using it! I used doTERRA oils which you can find more info on here.
DIY Peri Spray Recipe:
- half rose water
- half rose witch hazel
- 15 drops frankincense
- 15 drops copaiba
- 10 drops rose
- 8 drops blue tansy
Clary Calm
Clary Calm will forever be one of my very favourite oils. It’s good for all things hormonal, from periods, to conceiving, to postpartum, to breastfeeding. It helps to regulate hormones, balance emotions and even helps with cramps. I applied it to my wrists and tummy every time I fed baby for the first few weeks to help with hormone balance, as well as the afterpains. I was really surprised at how fast my tummy came down, and I think Clary Calm was a major help.
Get your own Clary Calm from $36.00 here.
Lansinoh Nipple Cream
The first few weeks of breastfeeding can be a little tender on the nips. I tried a few different products but liked this nipple cream the most. I like that you don’t have to wash it off before you feed, because washing your nips in the middle of the night can be a reeeal drag. Hopefully you won’t need it for long so just get the small tube!
Senorita Scrunchie
Oh where would I be without my scrunchies? I used a scrunchie in labour and use them almost everyday to jazz up that #mumbun I’ve also been using one on my wrist to remember which side I fed on last.
Get your scrunchies here! 2 for $20 with the code 2FOR20
So what are your postpartum faves? I would love to hear!
Brittney x
