Why do I need this? There's so much to know!
How do I use it? Reference this booklet for explanations on why and how to use various products (including other products not included in your bundle); evidence-based cheat sheets with tips and advice on common issues and questions; and words of wisdom and support from other parents. All content has been reviewed by an OBGYN to ensure it is medically accurate based on the latest research.
Why do I need this? For the first few days of heavy flow. Regardless of how you delivered, bleeding is heavy the first few days after birth as your body eliminates blood, uterine tissue, and mucus through vaginal discharge called lochia. Many moms prefer adult diapers for the early days since they are more leak-proof and absorbent than even the largest pads.
How do I use it? Use for the first couple days when bleeding is heaviest, or when you are sleeping to avoid unwanted leaks. Layer with witch hazel pads for anti-inflammatory relief, if desired
Which brand? Your bundle includes diapers from Rael, a company founded by three South Korean women who upon moving to the US were shocked by the lack of quality feminine care. These best-selling adult diapers are a world of difference from Depends: they are soft, comfortable, and made with organic Texas cotton and chlorine-free natural pulp, protecting your intimate areas from irritating chemicals.
Why do I need this? To hold your large maxi pad in place. Many moms use disposable undies instead of "real" undies in the early days because leaks and stains are inevitable. Some moms use these from the beginning while others start with adult diapers and then switch to these when bleeding eases slightly. Still others prefer using disposable undies + pads during the day and diapers at night (not that there’s really any clear line between day and night at first). Go with whatever you end up preferring!
How do I use it? Wear with maxi pads. These undies are sturdier than the hospital kind, but still meant to be disposed after use.
Which brand? Many moms prefer these Fridamom high-waisted postpartum undies over the fishnet-like see-through kind from the hospital because they feel more comfortable (soft, breathable, super stretchy) and secure (keep pads and dressings in place in place and provide support for your belly).
Why do I need this? To use with the disposable undies. Women typically bleed for 2-6 weeks after delivery, with bleeding quite heavy at first. Extra long, heavy flow pads catch leaks more effectively than smaller pads, especially when you are laying down resting or sleeping.
How do I use it? Use with your disposable underwear, or "real" undies that you don't mind getting stained. Layer with witch hazel pads for anti-inflammatory relief.
Which brand? Like the adult diapers described above, these maxi pads are from Rael. These extra-long overnight organic cotton pads offer wide coverage with an extended backs, preventing leaks and stains from heavy postpartum flows when you're sleeping or laying down.
Why do I need this? To ease your early bowel movements. Postpartum constipation is common because of fluctuating hormones, medicines from labor, dehydration, iron in prenatal supplements, and weakened pelvic muscles. Your first bowel movements can also be painful because of perineal tearing, or if you’ve had a C-section, because you’ve just had a major abdominal surgery. Doctors often recommend taking a stool softener to make early bowel movements easier, especially if bleeding during delivery causes postpartum anemia because this requires taking extra iron, which in turn can worsen constipation.
How do I use it? Use as directed by your doctor; usually the recommended dose is 100mg (one capsule) twice a day. Stool softeners are safe to use when breastfeeding.
Which brand? "Geri Care" is for sure not a very sexy brand, but it's an Amazon best-seller for good reason: it does the job, and it does it well. These 100mg softgel capsules of docusate sodium have the same contents as Colace, another stool softener brand you may have heard of.
Why do I need this? For painless cleaning down there. Peri bottles help you clean your perineal area after you use the toilet whether you had a vaginal delivery (wiping can be painful and irritate stitches), a C-section (to avoid bending over), or have hemorrhoids (makes it painful to wipe).
How do I use it? Fill with warm water, squirt to gently clean perineal area, then blot the area with toilet paper to dry
Which brand? In the past few years it seems everyone has discovered the superiority of upside-down peri bottles to the squirt kind they give you at the hospital. The reality is, there is not a significant difference among any of these upside-down bottles, so we sourced directly to save you any brand markup here.
Why do I need this? For reducing incision pain. Applying a cold pack to your incision or perineal area can help reduce pain after delivery, especially during the first 24-48 hours. Note that applying cold packs reduces blood circulation to the treated area which can slow the healing process, so prioritize using ice packs for pain relief in the early days but then try to reduce their usage.
How do I use it? Put your gel pack in the freezer for 30 minutes to 4 hours before using, so that it freezes while maintaining some flexibility. Apply to the incision or perineal area for 10-20 minutes at a time. Reapply up to every hour as needed for the first few days, then try to apply less and less frequently as time goes on to ensure speedy healing.
Which brand? There is not a specific stand-out brand of ice packs, so we've sourced directly. Your bundle includes two reusable gel packs that you can freeze before use, along with four reusable washable sleeves.
Why do I need this? Compression socks promote blood circulation by applying pressure to gently push blood flow up your leg. This reduces swelling and discomfort and can lower the risk of blood clots. Use in combination with light walking each day.
How do I use it? Ask your doctor, nurse, or midwife how long and frequently you should wear them. Usually they recommend at least two weeks or until you are fully "up and about". Some moms wear them for six weeks or more. They can also be very helpful for long days of travel or standing, or for exercise and post-exercise recovery.
Which brand? This two-pair set (one black, one ivory) of compression socks from HATCH are a best-seller among pregnant and postpartum women. The set - one black, one ivory - is designed to soothe swelling. They also look very cute so you can get more use out of them even post-recovery (e.g., on international flights, post-exercise recovery, or long days on your feet). Compression level is 15-20 mmHg (Moderate Compression).
Why do I need this? The specially formulated silicone in these sheets hydrates scar tissue by mimicking the natural barrier function of healthy skin. This minimizes scarring because when the skin is properly hydraetd, cell are not signaled to produce excess collagen, which is what comprises scar tissue.
How do I use it? Wait until your incision has healed and there are no signs of scabbing or open areas before using. This is usually a few weeks after surgery but ask your physician at your checkups what they recommend for you. For best results, be diligent about wearing for at least 12 hours daily (ideally more) for a few months.
Which brand? These are 100% silicone scar sheets from Belly Bandit. Moms like that they are ultra-thin and flexible, latex free, and that each can be washed and reused up to 10 times. Includes four reusable sheets.
Why do I need this? Abdominal binders, or belly wraps, provide abdominal support and light compression to help you get back to your daily activities more quickly. Some moms who had vaginal delivers also like the comfort of belly wraps because they "hold things in place", and physical therapists someimtes recommend them for reducing diastasis recti, a common condition that occurs when the rectus abdominis muscles separate during pregnancy.
How do I use it? Wear it snug but not too tight so that it doesn't cause too much pressure on your pelvic floor. Many doctors recommend wearing it for 6-10 weeks after C-section delivery, but check with your healthcare provider for individual guidance.
Which brand? The Belly Bandit patented and FDA registered belly wrap is one of the most trusted and highest-rated brands by new moms.
Why do I need this? We've included this as a gift for you! We made it nice and big, with an interior pocket and button clasp so that it fits a lot but also looks neat and organized.
How do I use it? Bring it with you to the hospital and use it to stash as many goodies as you can. Different hospitals are different in what they have on hand for you to take, but definitely stash all the extra diapers & baby wipes you can, along with baby blankets and swaddles, breastfeeding freebies, and anything else your hospital has that you can take home with you.