Postpartum Must-Haves: What to Buy for You (Not Just the Baby) After Birth
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When we’re preparing for a new baby, it’s so easy to get caught up in the adorable chaos—folding tiny onesies, comparing stroller reviews, and wondering which swaddle will be your baby’s favorite. But here’s what often gets left out of the conversation: you are about to go through a major transformation.
Whether you birth vaginally or by cesarean, your body will be doing deep, important healing. And yet most parents are sent home from the hospital with little more than a mesh underwear starter pack and a peri bottle that sprays in all the wrong directions.
So let’s change that.
This isn’t just a list of random “postpartum things” to buy—it’s a doula-approved, no-fluff guide to what will actually make your recovery smoother, more comfortable, and (most importantly) more centered on you.
And yes, there’s a free printable version waiting for you at the bottom of this post, so you can stock up or share it with a friend who’s expecting.
🧊 Perineal Care: Your Soothing Starter Kit
If you had a vaginal birth (or even labored before a belly birth), your perineum is likely swollen, sore, and in need of serious TLC. Even without tearing, that area just went through a marathon.
Here’s what can make a real difference:
Padsicles or DIY frozen diapers – Freeze postpartum pads or clean newborn diapers with a bit of water (and herbs, if you’re fancy) for the first 48 hours. Pro tip: freeze them over a bowl so they mold to your shape.
Perineal spray – Dermaplast is a favorite, but there are soothing herbal sprays too. Spray first, then apply balm for a one-two punch of comfort.
Perineal balm – Look for organic, herbal-infused options—or make your own.
Herbal sitz bath packets – Make a “tea” and pour it into a sitz bath or peri bottle. After a couple uses, you can apply the cooled tea bag right on the area.
Angled peri bottle – Trust me, the hospital version will make you want to scream. An angled neck makes rinsing easier and more effective, especially with a postpartum belly in the way.
Stool softeners + ibuprofen – Keep things moving without strain, and ease swelling and general discomfort.
Heavy pads or disposable undies – Bleeding can last several weeks, so stock up on absorbent, comfy options. Period underwear or washable pads can be great too.
🚩 Watch for red flags: If you’re soaking through a pad an hour, call your provider.
🍼 Breast/Chestfeeding Comfort Items
If you’re nursing, you’re not just feeding a baby—you’re managing hormones, hydration, and some serious nipple sensitivity. Set yourself up for success with these:
A large water bottle with a straw – Because that breastfeeding thirst is real. Bonus points if it keeps things cold or hot for hours.
Organic cold-pressed coconut oil – The ultimate multitasker: nipple balm, baby booty barrier (meconium slides right off!), hand cream, and more.
Nipple balm – For when coconut oil isn’t quite cutting it. Look for organic, soothing ingredients.
Gel nipple pads – Straight from the fridge = heavenly in those early days.
Breast pads (disposable or washable) – Prevent leaks and protect sore nipples.
Milk catchers (optional) – Great for collecting letdown from the opposite side.
💡 Pro tip: Even before you leave your birth location, line up a lactation consultant. Don’t wait until you’re in pain or overwhelmed—early support can make a huge difference.
🌿 Other Comfort Must-Haves
Here’s where we talk about your whole-body recovery—including the parts that often get skipped.
Heating pad – Post-birth cramps can be rough, especially with second+ babies. Nursing triggers those uterine contractions—heat can help ease them.
One-handed snacks – Trail mix, crackers, chocolate (yes, chocolate counts as self-care), protein bars… whatever you can grab while feeding or resting.
Cozy extras – A soft robe, fuzzy socks, your favorite blanket. You deserve comfort.
Notebook or notes app – Jot down to-dos, feeding notes, or the random thoughts that pop up at 3 a.m. You can even write one memory a day to reflect on later.
❤️ Mental health matters. Your hormones are shifting, your life just changed, and the emotions can be big. Keep something nearby that brings you joy—affirmations, a favorite show, a friend who always texts back with memes.
📥 Download the Checklist
Want to make prepping even easier? I’ve created a printable version of this list (plus so many other guides) inside my free resource library.
🎁 Click here to sign up and get instant access
You’ll find everything from postpartum prep to sleep tips for the first year.
💬 Want personalized support?
If you’re feeling overwhelmed or not sure what kind of support you’ll actually need after birth—I’ve got you.
🌿 Preparing for Parenthood Consults – Let’s walk through your postpartum plan, what you already have, and what to expect. We’ll customize it to your life, your family, and your values.
🌙 First Year Support Program – Already postpartum and feeling behind? No problem. I’ll help you course correct, troubleshoot, and create systems that work for you and your baby.
💤 Rooted Rest Sleep Course – Expecting baby #2+? This is especially helpful if you want older siblings to be sleeping soundly before your newborn arrives. (Hint: start by 34–36 weeks.)
You matter just as much as the baby.
Take care of yourself like you would a loved one. Because healing isn’t a luxury—it’s essential. And you don’t have to do it alone.
Warmly,
Doula Deb
