Postpartum Recovery Kit: Top 8 Must-Haves Following A Vaginal Birth

You're a first time mom and you're probably thinking to yourself that giving birth and pushing the baby out could only be as hard as it gets when it comes to your pregnancy journey, right? Now in the fourth trimester, how hard can it possibly be?

Your body has gone through a lot of hormonal and physical changes. As your body gears up for healing and recovery, we created a list of postpartum essentials that you might want to consider as part of your recovery kit must-haves! (Click on the links and add to cart!) 

READ ALSO: Up To 2 Years Of Paid Maternity Leave: How Postpartum Recovery Looks Like Around The World Vs PH

Top 8 Postpartum Essentials Following a Vaginal Delivery

1. Maternity pads

After giving birth, your body will shed superficial mucous membrane and will undergo postpartum bleeding. The heaviest will be during the first three to ten days post delivery and will eventually decrease in volume in the next few weeks. Postpartum bleeding will be a rather uncomfortable time but it's all normal and this is how your body heals itself. To support your way to healing, you need ultra-absorbent pads for extra-protection.  

Available on Shopee, fulfilled by Watsons. Modess Maternity, 113.00, 7 non-wing pads

Available on Shopee. Charmee Menstrual Pants 2's x 6 Medium, 335.00

2. Comfortable Underwear

According to BabyCenter, "your postpartum belly won't instantly go back to how it was before you were pregnant – it's a process that can take months or even years, while some bellies may take on a different shape permanently." So while your uterus shrinks back to its normal shape, you'll remain to have the need for maternity panties or full cotton panties long after you've given birth. 

 

Available on Lazada. SO-EN Maternity Panty, 130.00 per piece

3. Portable bidet or Perineal wash bottle

The perineum is the area between your vagina and anus. This area will naturally tear during childbirth or your doctor may have to make a small surgical cut in this area to widen your vagina for childbirth. Following vaginal birth, the perineum will be sore and possibly swollen postpartum. The discomfort can be felt for weeks so we recommend a perineal wash bottle while passing the urine or when washing your genital area. This way you can control the water pressure and even use warm water when washing in order to soothe the sore area.

Available on Lazada. PHITO Portable Bidet Bottle Sprayer, 246.25 discounted price , 649.00 regular price

4. Pain Relief Spray

This is a fast-acting topical pain relief for early postpartum days, ideally for perineal area or postpartum hemorrhoids (external). The perineal area may remain sore or itchy postpartum and if there was an incision made, the wound might hurt a few weeks. Consider allergic reaction to lidocaine.  Do not use on breasts or nipples. 

Available on Shopee. Lansinoh Pain Relief Spray, 1399.00, 100ml bottle

5. Nipple Cream 

For new moms, latching and infant positioning could also mean a struggle. And since you're breastfeeding for the first time, expect that your nipples will get sore, dry, and cracked. Apply lanolin cream for nipple pain relief. 

Available on Lazada. Pigeon Nipple Care Cream, 899.75, 50 grams

READ ALSO: Why Doctors Hope for Vaginal Birth, Especially for First-Time Moms

6. Nursing Pillow 

A good nursing pillow helps support your arms and back while you breastfeed. It also aims to support the baby on your lap as you both try to find an ergonomic, comfortable latching position. Even if breastfeeding is not an option for you, you can still use this pillow to prop up your baby during feeding time. 

Available on Lazada. Chicco Boppy Original Feeding & Infant Support Pillow, 1,576.00

7. Tummy Butter

Use hypoallergenic formula for your battle scars and help improve the appearance of stretch marks. There is nothing wrong with your having these scars, but hydration can definitely go a long way. Best to use during pregnancy (to help skin become soft and elastic ) and post-delivery.

Available on Lazada. Palmer's Tummy Butter, 903.43, 125 grams

8. Abdominal Binder / Girdle

While your body recovers from giving birth, support your back and your belly as the uterus shrinks back to its pre-pregnancy shape. Pick a belt with soft material that won't chafe your skin and something that's easy to adjust as your waist size gradually tapers off. 

 

Available on Shopee, Wink Medical Grade Postpartum and Slimming Binder, P4,990

 

You got this, Mama!

Adapting to a life with a newborn will surely have its ups and downs. During this time of transition, it will be a rollercoaster ride of emotions, soreness, exhaustion, and sleep deprivation. But Mama, no matter how tired you are, always remember that taking care of the baby should be as important as taking care of yourself. It is equally crucial that you have the right resources for your recovery journey.

Can you think of other postpartum essentials? Let us know and comment down below!

Sources: Family Doctor, Mayo Clinic