Ice can also be your pal. “Ice packs that can be utilized on the perineal space might assist lower swelling associated to vaginal supply,” says Dr. Purdie. “They’ll additionally assist with any burning feeling that could be related to the C-section scar.”
You need to undoubtedly have additional postpartum pads (that are principally giant maxi pads) available, “as most individuals will proceed to bleed for 4 to 6 weeks post-delivery,” says Dr. Purdie. “Some girls additionally favor to make use of disposable underwear, as they might be extra stretchy and comfy throughout this time.” (Grownup diapers are additionally a handy possibility, and they are often simpler to make use of. “Many sufferers have instructed me that these don’t rub in opposition to their C-section scar like most common underwear does,” she says.)
What to search for in a postpartum package
While you’re purchasing, both for a present or for your self, “issues to think about embody whether or not the supply was vaginal or a C-section, whether or not there was any tearing — and what diploma the tear might have been — and whether or not she is breastfeeding,” says Dr. Harper. Should you plan to get a C-section, you would possibly need to go together with a devoted package for that objective.
That mentioned, there’s nonetheless quite a lot of overlap. “Ladies who’ve a C-section will nonetheless have vaginal bleeding, so maxi pads and mesh underwear and even a peri bottle will stay necessary,” she says. Plus, mothers who give delivery vaginally would possibly need to use a stomach band to get additional help the primary few days after giving delivery.
Should you’re breastfeeding you would possibly need to search for a package with nipple lotions and different breastfeeding necessities. Nipple cream “may be very useful to use post-breastfeeding or pumping to assist stop or deal with sore and cracked nipples,” says Dr. Purdie. “As well as, breastfeeding pads are helpful for accumulating any milk which may leak.”
Is a postpartum package mandatory?
It relies upon! Should you plan to ship in a hospital, many now provide peri bottles, mesh underwear, and maxi pads. Throughout this time, you may stuff your bag with them and take them residence. (For sure issues, like iced maxi pads, you may DIY your personal earlier than giving delivery.)
Nonetheless, for those who’re in search of one thing a bit of extra luxurious or considerate, a postpartum package is likely to be the best way to go. (In spite of everything, fancy postpartum retreats within the U.S. exist and are pretty widespread in Asian nations like South Korea.) Regardless of the case, new mamas should not overlook their very own well-being. “We frequently have actually excessive expectations of ourselves, when what we have to do is fear about consuming, sleeping, and caring for ourselves and our infants,” reminds Dr. Harper. “If postpartum kits will help girls with their self-care routine, that is great.”
Meet the consultants
- Lyndsey Harper, MD, a board-certified obstetrician-gynecologist and CEO and co-founder of Rosy
- Jill Purdie, MD, a board-certified obstetrician-gynecologist and medical director at Pediatrix Medical Group in Atlanta, Georgia