If you have been around for any amount of time, you know I am super passionate about preparing for birth. And while preparing is paramount for your birth experience, we can’t forget to prepare for postpartum, too. Let’s check out my 5 postpartum essentials that every family needs. 

1. Postpartum Plan

First and foremost, we need a solid plan for postpartum. It’s so important to to have a game plan, to know what to expect, and to feel ready to bring baby home as a team. Having a plan sets us up for success because we will have thought through the different aspects of postpartum before we are in the thick of it. It’s no secret that postpartum can be difficult as we are learning to breastfeed, healing from birth, and running low on sleep. Having a plan in place for these hardships gives us tools to tackle them even before they happen. In my birth class, we prepare for postpartum, just like we do for birth. I also love the support and deep dive wisdom Megan Limon offers in her postpartum class. Getting the support and tools lined up before baby arrives is essential for a positive postpartum experience. 

2. Proper Nutrition and Hydration

This essential could be its own stand-alone blog. Truly, it’s one of the best and most impactful ways to prepare for postpartum. Whether you choose to prepare some freezer meals, have a meal train, or have someone freshly cook for you, your meals should be nutrient-dense, easy to digest, and warm. New mothers should be eating around the clock as you need at least 500 additional calories just to make milk. Not to mention replenish the blood, fluids, and minerals you lost during the birth process. Proper nutrition and mineral support are what I stress the most in pregnancy and postpartum. 

3. Bleeding Supplies

If you’ve been preparing and educating yourself on postpartum, you’ll know that you will be bleeding for a few weeks after giving birth. The amount of blood decreases over time (especially if you are resting appropriately) so I typically recommend having a few sizes of pads ready to go. Some ladies love the adult diaper style, while others prefer a more traditional pad. Whatever feels easiest and most comfortable is what you want to use. Sticking with organic materials is helpful for healing because we don’t want chemicals on our delicate areas, especially after giving birth. 

4. Pajamas

Another essential is a lovely pair of nursing pajamas. Healing is a big focus for postpartum, especially in the first 15 days. You should be spending most of your days in bed, resting, snuggling, and bonding with baby. And you should feel cozy doing it! I had these pajamas on my own registry when I was pregnant with Eisley and one of Chris’s (male) co-workers bought them for me. His note said, “We need to remember a mother is born, too.” Is that is best of what? A soft pair of pajamas, that you can easily nurse in, is a great way to to honor yourself as you prepare for postpartum. 

5. Silver Nipple Cups

If you are planning to breastfeed, you are going to want to have these silver nipple cups on hand and ready. Your nipples might feel uncomfortable as you and your baby are learning how to breastfeed and I love the healing and soothing properties of silver. While you don’t want to wear them 24/7, they can provide some relief from nipple damage and/or soreness. And if you keep them clean, they should last you through multiple babies and breastfeeding experiences.

Wherever you are in your pregnancy journey, I hope you will take some time to be prepared for the postpartum season. It’s such a small and sweet window of time to cherish with your baby. Having a plan, support, and supplies ready can help you enjoy those early days as a new family. Let’s be intentional about being ready for postpartum with these 5 essentials.