Things You Need After Having A Baby

Giving birth is a beautiful gift of experience in life. Sometimes, it can be an enormous pressure for the mother and the family. There is too much to think of, like building a home that fosters positivity toward the new family member or ensuring the baby thrives. Basically, everything revolves around the welfare of the child. Oftentimes, mothers forget the self-care they deserve during postpartum, too. I listed essential things mothers need after birth to ensure a healthy and efficient motherhood. If you are a mother, I am proud of you, and this one's for you. If you are a husband or another family member trying to figure out how to help the mommy, your efforts will certainly be appreciated! 

Essential Things For Mommies After Giving Birth:

1. Sanitary pad

Wearing sanitary pads is essential in the first weeks after giving birth because bleeding from the womb or uterus will likely start then. Avoid using tampons, menstrual cups, or other internal menstrual products to prevent infections.

2. Pain relievers

It is expected to experience cramps for the first days after birth. It is advisable to take over-the-counter painkillers such as Ibuprofen and Acetaminophen, which are safe for breastfeeding. 

3. Nursing bras

When breastfeeding, nursing bras can support the growing weight of the baby. They can also help mothers feel comfortable while still trying to regain strength.

4. Nipple cream

Breast milk is healthy for the baby, but babies sure do suck more often than not, which leaves mothers' nipples no time to recover. To avoid soreness and cracking of the nipples, applying nipple cream can be a solution. Note: if nipples are tender, sore, or severely damaged, it is best to seek medical assistance.

5. Nursing dresses

Opting for nursing tops and clothes after giving birth is good for functionality and comfort. They provide easier access for breastfeeding, nursing, and pumping, which regular clothes often cannot provide. 

6. Disposable underwear

Women's bodies can be weird after giving birth, but their power to replenish each tissue, bone, and muscle is a natural gift. Disposable underwear can be used instead of a sanitary pad for bleeding, weak bladder muscles, and urinary incontinence. It can help absorb blood, pee, and water.

7. Peri bottle

After giving vaginal delivery, peri bottles can be easily used for urinating, especially if there are tearings or stitches. It just needs to be filled with warm water, and while sitting on the toilet, squeeze the bottle with the open tip towards the area that needs to be cleaned. Then, dab gently with a clean cloth or air dry.

8. Water bottle

Staying hydrated after birth is important, especially when breastfeeding. Water bottles or tumblers can be used to achieve the recommended amount of 3.8 liters of water a day. 

9. Snacks

A healthy and nutritious snack is a must after giving birth to replenish those nutrients reduced from the body during pregnancy or childbirth. Eating fruits and vegetables, nuts, or bars with fruits and nuts is advisable.

10. A supporter

This is not an object or thing, but I put this as an essential part of starting the motherhood journey. 9 months of carrying somebody's life inside the womb and then undergoing painful labor is not an easy task. Taking care of oneself, managing postpartum emotions, and giving the best for the baby is challenging to do alone. That's why it is a must to have a support system that will provide aid, love, and comfort to the mommies out there. 

Remember: "A mother continues to labor after the baby is born."