Pregnancy is a beautiful journey, but it can also leave you feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, and in need of some serious self-care after baby arrives. I remember when I had my two little ones—each time, I felt like I was learning all over again. There are so many new products on the market now that I wish I’d had back then. But even with all the fancy gadgets, the simple, time-tested essentials like Mother’s Milk Tea and Lanolin Oil were absolute lifesavers.
As a doula with Baja Birth Story, a division of the Somewhere Over the Border Brand, I've worked with countless new moms, and there are certain postpartum items I swear by. These are the products I recommend to every client to help ease those first few weeks of recovery. Whether you're healing from a vaginal birth or a C-section, these must-have essentials will help you feel more comfortable, supported, and ready to enjoy your new little one.
I've put together this list of my top 12 postpartum items that every mom should have on hand. Trust me, these items aren't just "nice to have"—they're game-changers for making postpartum life a little bit easier and a lot more comfortable. Whether you're a first-time mom or adding to your growing family, these products will help you get through the tough days, and even thrive during your recovery.
Let’s dive in!
1. Tucks
TUCKS Medicated Cooling Pads offer soothing relief for postpartum recovery, particularly for the perineal area after birth. Infused with witch hazel, these soft pads provide cooling comfort to reduce inflammation, soothe irritation, and promote healing. Simply place a pad in the panties for instant, gentle relief that’s safe for new moms.
2. Lansinoh Postpartum Kit
Healing after birth is a journey, and this peri bottle is designed to help make that journey a little easier. It’s perfect for gentle cleansing and comfort, especially during those first few weeks postpartum.
3. Ultimate PostPartum Bundle
The Lansinoh Breastfeeding & Postpartum Bundle has all you need for those early days – soothing nipple cream, nursing pads, a peri bottle, hot & cold packs, and more. It’s the self-care essential you deserve to feel comfortable and cared for after birth. You’ll be so glad you have it!
4. The Bradley Method
Husband-Coached Childbirth was a game-changer for me! Using the Bradley Method, my partner and I felt so prepared and connected, which made my birth experience truly empowering. This book gives you all the tools for a natural, confident birth journey with your partner by your side. Trust me—you’ll be glad to have it!
5. Nursing Bra Set
These supportive, stretchy nursing bras are perfect for both day and night. They make breastfeeding more convenient and comfortable and give you one less thing to worry about.
6. Haakaa Ladybug Milk Collector
I was honestly impressed when I saw one of my doula clients using the Haakaa Ladybug Milk Collector! Unlike pumps or breast pads, this little wearable collector quietly catches every precious drop while you nurse, with no extra fuss. I wish these had been around when I was breastfeeding—they’re an effortless way to save milk that would otherwise go to waste.
7.Haakaa Manual Breast Pump
The Haakaa Manual Breast Pump actively expresses milk with gentle suction, perfect for pumping on one side while nursing on the other. In contrast, the Ladybug Milk Collector passively collects milk while you nurse, making it hands-free and hassle-free. Both are silicone, but the Manual Pump offers more control, while the Ladybug is ideal for effortless milk collection.
8. Recovery Kit
The Frida Mom Postpartum Recovery Essentials Kit has everything you need for comfort after birth, including disposable underwear, ice pads, healing foam, pad liners, and a peri bottle. It’s a must-have for easier, soothing recovery!
9. Perineal Ice Maxi Pads
I remember on day 3 after having my son, it felt like my vagina had been hit by a train—these Frida Mom 2-in-1 Postpartum Pads were a Godsend, combining absorbent maternity pads with instant cold therapy to offer much-needed relief and support for my recovery.
10. Belly Wrap and Underwear
The Frida Mom Belly Binder and Postpartum Underwear Bundle offers great support, whether you had a vaginal birth or C-section. It includes a comfy compression wrap and soft, high-waisted disposable underwear to help you feel secure and comfortable during recovery.
11. Medela Purelan Lanolin, Safe for Breastfeeding Baby
If I could choose just one thing to help with breastfeeding, it would be Medela Purelan Lanolin. Both my babies were constantly nursing, and it was so painful, but this cream saved me! I applied it before and after every feeding, and it helped toughen up my nipples, keeping me pain-free and able to feed my little ones. Seriously, it's a lifesaver!
12. Mother’s Milk Tea
If you're breastfeeding, Traditional Medicinals Organic Mother's Milk Tea is a must-try! It helps stimulate milk production and is a great addition to your daily routine, supporting you while you nourish your baby. A simple, soothing way to boost your milk supply!
These essentials also make an amazing baby shower gift—because let’s face it, we often focus so much on the baby that we forget about the mama. New moms are often left to navigate healing alone, and these postpartum items are a perfect way to show some love and support for the woman in your life. If you’re really feeling generous, consider putting together a thoughtful gift basket packed with these must-haves. It’s a heartfelt way to help her feel more comfortable and supported during this special time.
These items are here to make your postpartum experience smoother, more comfortable, and focused on what truly matters: your beautiful new journey with your baby. Thank you for allowing me to be part of this exciting chapter in your life! If you decide to grab any of these products through my affiliate links, you’re not only supporting your own recovery but also helping to support my work as a doula. I truly appreciate it.
And, if you're looking to capture the beauty of your pregnancy or your baby’s first moments, don’t hesitate to reach out. Feel free to email me at Britni@somewhereovertheborderphotography.com to book your maternity session.
Sending you all the love and support for a beautiful postpartum journey!
Comments