BONJOUR PARENTHOOD EXPERIENCE, POSTPARTUM CARE, RECOVERY
THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO POSTPARTUM ESSENTIALS: WHAT EVERY NEW MOM NEEDS
Preparing for your baby's arrival is an exciting journey, but don't overlook what you'll need for your own postpartum recovery.
You've probably spent countless hours researching everything you'll need for your soon-to-be-born baby. You've compared reviews online, sought advice from friends, family members, and online communities, and read numerous articles and blogs with lists of recommended items. Once your registry is set up and your due date is approaching, you dive into the same process for your maternity bag, going down the rabbit hole once again.
But have you even considered what postpartum supplies you will need for yourself after childbirth? Well, the good news is that most hospitals provide basic postpartum recovery supplies, but until childbirth, women often don’t know exactly what they’ll need. The necessities can vary significantly depending on the type of birth (vaginal or C-section) and potential complications (tears, episiotomies, hemorrhoids…). It’s essential to check in advance with your hospital to see what supplies they will provide and what you need to plan to include in your maternity bag.
At Bonjour Parenthood, we embrace the French approach of "less is better", and have established a minimalist list of postpartum essentials.
We recommend 1/ researching in advance, 2/ adding a few essentials to your online shopping cart, and 3/ ordering only what you need post childbirth. This approach ensures you buy only what you need and ultimately save money. Our essentials include:
Maxi Pads for Lochia (Postpartum Bleeding): Lochia is the vaginal discharge after giving birth, containing blood, mucus, and uterine tissue. It’s similar to a heavy menstrual period and can last for several weeks.
High Waist Cotton Underwear: These are particularly important in case of a C-section to avoid pressure on the scar. Comfortable, breathable underwear can make a significant difference in your postpartum comfort.
Peri Bottle: Essential for vaginal births, a peri bottle helps with gentle cleaning after using the bathroom. It reduces discomfort and promotes healing.
Alcohol-Free Witch Hazel: This is beneficial for both vaginal births and hemorrhoids. Witch hazel can be found in foam or lotion form to be applied on maxi pads or in pad form. Always try it on your wrist first to test for any skin reaction.
Epsom Salt: Ideal for sitz baths or foot baths, Epsom salt helps soothe and heal the perineal area after childbirth. It can also relieve soreness and reduce swelling.
Perineal ice packs: Used to relieve pain and reduce swelling in the perineal area after childbirth, they provide cold therapy to aid in the healing process, enhancing postpartum comfort.
ESTABLISHING A SUPPORT SYSTEM
While having the right postpartum supplies is crucial, what mothers need most after giving birth is time and space to rest, heal, and bond with their newborn(s). With 1 in 5 women experiencing Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders (PMADs), and more than 1 in 3 women experiencing lasting health problems after childbirth, establishing a robust support system that enables proper recovery is invaluable.
Support can come from various sources, including family members, friends, fellow parents, neighbors, and paid services. At Bonjour Parenthood, we recommend adding the following services to your registry:
Meal Train / Private Chef / Meal Delivery: Nutrition plays a vital role in postpartum recovery. Arranging meal trains or scheduling meal deliveries ensures that new mothers get healthy, balanced meals without the time commitment and mental burden of cooking.
Housekeeping Services: Keeping the house clean can be challenging with a newborn. Hiring housekeeping services can help maintain a clean and comfortable living environment, reducing stress and allowing new mothers to focus on recovery and bonding with their baby.
Babysitting for Older Siblings: If you have older children, arranging babysitting services can be a lifesaver. It ensures they are cared for and entertained, giving you more time to rest and care for your newborn.
Pet Care: Pets need attention and care, which can be overwhelming when you're focused on a newborn. Arranging pet care services can provide peace of mind, knowing your furry friends are well taken care of.
Lactation Consultant Visits: Breastfeeding can be challenging, and professional guidance can make a significant difference. Many insurance plans cover lactation consultant visits, so check with your provider.
Postnatal Massages: Postnatal massages can help alleviate muscle tension and promote relaxation, physical and emotional support during the postpartum period.
Bonjour Parenthood Postpartum Care Packages: Our care packages cover all aspects of support needed by new parents in the first few days postpartum. They include essential items and services designed to make the transition to parenthood smoother and more comfortable.
Preparing for the arrival of your baby involves more than just setting up a nursery and packing a hospital bag. Considering your postpartum needs is equally important. At Bonjour Parenthood, we believe in a comprehensive and effective approach to postpartum care, that is Mother-Centered and Family-Oriented. By planning ahead, establishing a support system, and focusing on essentials, you can ensure a smoother and more comfortable recovery.
Remember, the postpartum period is a time to focus on yourself and your baby. Accept help, take it one day at a time, and prioritize your well-being. You've got this, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.
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