6 items you’ll want to have on hand for postpartum recovery

Yes, delivering a baby can indeed be a painful experience. While people often discuss the pain associated with childbirth, they rarely talk about the challenges our bodies face after delivering a baby. Perineal tears are a common reality yet rarely talked about, and hemorrhoids can develop whether from a vaginal birth or a lengthy labor before a C-section. These issues may be uncomfortable to discuss, but they’re nothing to be ashamed of.

It’s important to be prepared to minimize discomfort after giving birth. We talked to Dr. Sasha Hakman, OB-GYN and BabyCenter Medical Advisor, about the six essential items you should have at home to help and comfort you during your postpartum recovery.

1. Postpartum underwear

Whether it’s a C-section or a vaginal delivery, postpartum underwear is a must-have. “Typically, bleeding can be quite heavy immediately postpartum and can last for weeks,” she says. “While this is normal, it’s certainly unpleasant. Postpartum underwear may not be the most flattering, but it really does the trick to hold those extra-large maxi pads in place and they’re actually really comfortable.” 

2. TUCKS^® Medicated Cooling PadsOpens a new window

These medicated padsOpens a new window, which include witch hazel to soothe and protect irritated areas, are a must if you’ve had a vaginal delivery. According to Dr. Hakman, “They’re helpful for perineal tears, hemorrhoids, and anything in between,” says Dr. Hakman. “This product is absolutely nonnegotiable. Trust me, I tried to go a few hours without when I ran out, and I instantly regretted it!” While the hospital can provide you with a jar, you should purchase additional packs to keep at home, as these will be the first item you’ll run out of due to how soothing and comforting they are. 

3. Instant cooling maxi pads

The hospital can provide you with some of these after you give birth, but they usually do not supply enough to last you. It’s a good idea to stock up on cooling maxi pads so you’ll have a stash at home. These pads are incredibly helpful for relieving pain from perineal tearing and hemorrhoids.

4. Peri bottle

A peri (short for perineum) bottle is an angled container you can fill with water to clean the area between your vagina and anus. According to Dr. Hakman it’s critical that you wash the area after every time you use the bathroom to reduce the risk of infection, and promote healing. If you don’t have a peri bottle, but have a bidet at home, that can also work, as long as the water pressure is not too intense. 

"Pain relief spray is an incredibly helpful [product] that you can spray directly over the perineum or onto your maxi pad lined with Tucks medicated cooling pads. The combination is golden!" - Sasha Hakman, OB-GYN 

5. Pain relief spray

This spray is perfect for new moms. It cools your intimate area and provides quick pain relief. “This is an incredibly helpful spray that you can spray directly over the perineum or on to your maxi pad lined with Tucks medicated cooling pads. The combination is golden!” says Dr. Hakman. “If you’re feeling extra pain from spraying it, check in with your OB-GYN. Sometimes when pain relief spray suddenly stings instead of helping, it could be a sign that things aren’t healing as they should.”

6. Sitz bath

A shallow bath is a must for the soothing comfort you’ll need after giving birth. With this type of bath, a person sits with their hips and butt submerged in warm water. You can either use your bath tub or invest in a sitz bath tub. Dr. Hakman recommends adding Epsom salt to the bath to promote healing.

Don’t worry; postpartum discomfort doesn’t last forever. Before you know it – and with the help of these effective remedies – you’ll soon feel like yourself again. 

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