Healthy Habits: 6 Post-Pregnancy Essentials

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Pregnancy is all about preparing for the changes ahead. If you’re expecting a child, odds are good you’re taking many steps before they arrive to ensure you’re ready to care for your little one when they do show up.

That’s certainly important. However, it’s also important that you be ready to address your own needs during the postpartum adjustment.

The following are key essentials to stock up on. Add them to your “pre-baby” shopping list so you’re not scrambling to get them later.

Breast Pump
Having a breast pump on hand offers many benefits to new mothers. This piece of equipment lets you exercise greater control over feeding times, avoid supply issues, and take more breaks.

That’s very important when you’ve just had a child. Mothers who rely solely on natural breastfeeding are often sleep-deprived. When a baby is hungry, they’re the only one who can feed them.

A breast pump fixes this problem. With a supply of milk stored in the home, your spouse and other family members can handle middle-of-the-night feedings when you need some more sleep.

Nipple Cream
Getting used to breastfeeding can take time. To make the adjustment period run a little more smoothly, use a natural, oil-based nipple cream.

Water Bottle
Specifically, you should try to get a relatively large water bottle you can easily fill up on-the-go.

Drinking enough water throughout the day is always important. However, it’s even more crucial when you’re breastfeeding. You need proper hydration to supply your baby with nutrition and avoid dehydration.

The Right Clothing
Apparel designed specifically for new mothers can help you stay comfortable as you recover from having a child. Supporting tanks can be a good option if you’re looking to stay comfortable during the postpartum period. With the right shaping garments, you can feel comfortably held-in while also reducing swelling in your lower body.

Sanitary Pads
Vaginal discharge is common after having a child. Yes, this is true for all new mothers, even if you had a C-section. It tends to last between two to six weeks. In the meantime, it’s a good idea to always have sanitary pads within reach.

Vitamins
Having a child takes a toll on your body. You need to remember to address your own nutritional needs, and not just your child’s. That means coordinating with your OB/GYN to find out what vitamins they recommend taking during the recovery period. They often advise staying on a course of prenatal vitamins for a period of time after having a baby, but this isn’t universal advice. Make sure you discuss this topic before giving birth.

Remember, taking care of yourself is key to taking care of your child. You’ll address your new baby’s needs much more reliably if you prepare to address your own as well. Buying these items early will help.