Your Postpartum Recovery Kit: Essentials For New Moms

Welcoming a new baby is a joyful experience, but the postpartum period also has challenges that require preparation. A well-stocked postpartum recovery kit can ease discomfort and help moms heal after delivery. From mesh underwear to snacks and hydration, here's what you'll need.

Must-Have Items For Postpartum Recovery

Hospitals like Franciscan Health provide many of the essentials for recovery after childbirth.

"Our postpartum nurses are incredibly helpful in explaining what moms need. Moms go home with items like mesh underwear, peri-bottles and pads," said Emily Hamaker, MD, a family medicine physician with Franciscan Physician Network who delivers babies at Franciscan Health Mooresville.

At home, moms should stock up on these essentials:

• Breast pads: Prevent leakage from staining clothes.
• Feminine pads: Necessary to manage postpartum bleeding and hemorrhage during recovery.
• Hot and cold packs: "Hot packs can help ease cramping, especially during breastfeeding. Cold packs can relieve engorgement pain," Dr. Hamaker noted.
• Mesh underwear: Comfortable and stretchy, ideal for sensitive healing areas.
• Nipple balm: Relieves discomfort for breastfeeding moms.
• Over-the-counter pain relievers like Tylenol and ibuprofen: Essential to manage postpartum cramping and general discomfort. "If pain persists, moms should talk with their provider for stronger pain relief," Dr. Hamaker said.
• Peri-bottle: Helps clean the perineal area gently and reduce discomfort.
• Tucks pads or similar products: Helpful to soothe stitches and heal perineal discomfort, particularly after a vaginal delivery.

Learn more about physical recovery in our blog on physical therapy support during pregnancy and postpartum.

Snacks And Hydration For Energy

Recovery from pregnancy and childbirth requires both rest and nourishment.

"Childbirth is one of the biggest events of physical exertion a woman will go through, and proper hydration and nutrition are crucial afterward," Dr. Hamaker explained.

Breastfeeding moms need an extra 30–40 ounces of water daily and between 500–800 additional calories to support milk production.

Here's what to include:

• Electrolyte drinks: Replenish fluids and minerals lost during delivery.
• Healthy snacks: Think nuts, whole-grain crackers, and fruits and vegetables. "Snacks high in energy and easy to grab can help maintain strength during recovery," Dr. Hamaker said. Remember, "Many moms wake up hungry while feeding their baby overnight, so keep snacks on hand."
• Water bottle: Essential for hydration, especially for breastfeeding moms.

"Breastfeeding is a major energy demand, so listening to your body's hunger and thirst cues is important," Dr. Hamaker said.

Continuing prenatal vitamins can also support nutrition for both mom and baby.

Comfort Items For Postpartum Healing

Comfort is key during postpartum recovery. These items can make those early weeks easier:

• Loose clothing: Soft, elastic-waist pants and cotton underwear are gentle on healing areas. They also accommodate your body's natural changes during healing.
• Nursing bras: Choose soft, wire-free styles to accommodate breast changes during breastfeeding.
• Padsicles: Chilled pads offer soothing relief for sensitive perineal areas.

Organize Your Space For Recovery

Planning can make postpartum life smoother. Dr. Hamaker suggested creating dedicated spaces for feeding, diaper changes and rest before the baby arrives.

"Set up everything you'll need in easily accessible areas, so you're not climbing stairs or searching for supplies during those first days of recovery," she said.

Partners and family members can help gather and organize supplies to make the transition home as seamless as possible.

Supporting Moms

Franciscan Health is proud to provide resources for new moms, from comprehensive postpartum kits to classes like the Village Postpartum Support Group.

"Our nurses ensure moms leave with the tools they need to start recovery at home," said Dr. Hamaker.

For emotional support during recovery, explore our blog on baby blues vs. postpartum depression.