As a soon to be second time mama, I feel like I have a leg up with how to prepare for baby number two. While I am no expert, I wanted to share how I’ve been getting ready for her arrival in just a few short weeks. Many moms spend their time getting ready for their labor, delivery, and bringing the baby home, that they completely forget to prepare a postpartum care kit. I’ll be the first to say that I was not prepared AT ALL for postpartum with Aimery - so I’ve learned my lesson for this time around. No matter how you deliver, you’ll need postpartum supplies to get you through the recovery period better. If not for you, these would make for an amazing gift for any first time mom that  you may know. I do know that you can buy postpartum kits online, but I prefer making my own so I can pick and choose what products and brands to go onto my cart. Keep reading for everything on my cart!

Why do you need a postpartum kit?

After giving birth, you’ll experience lots of symptoms like cramping, bleeding, breast pains, and much more. I won’t lie and say postpartum is a breeze, because it certainly isn’t, but it’s all about getting prepared. I prefer using a cart to easily bring from one room to the next, but a basket or container will also be fine!

Essentials for your DIY postpartum care kit

The key is to have your postpartum kit all set up before the baby arrives. This way, you’re all prepared and don’t have to scramble to try and find what you need while you’re on newborn duty. There is a common misconception that postpartum recovery is only about vaginal recovery, but it’s really about your whole body. 

• Large pads and adult diapers
  Okay, hear me out… adult diapers are the best postpartum pads ever. The work that our bodies do to push out a human is truly incredible, but healing after birth is a process. Bleeding will frequently occur, so get prepared with lots and lots of pads and adult diapers! I’m using these this time around. You’ll also want to pick up some breast pads for when your milk comes in!

• Comfortable underwear
  If you’re like me and you hate the mesh underwear from the hospital, get some comfortable underwear that you won’t mind wearing and potentially getting ruined. I recommend cotton underwear because they are super comfortable for post-pregnancy bellies.

• Dermoplast spray
  I have heard that this spray is heaven sent. Other moms that I know swear it’s the best stuff and you need to include it in your kit. Dermoplast spray minimizes pain in the “down under” region of your body.

• Cooling pads
  If you don’t like the idea of a spray or are wanting multiple pain relief options, try cooling pads! I’m using these - they are great for helping to keep your body parts feeling cold and less painful.

• Peri bottle
  If you have a natural birth, your vaginal area definitely is in some pain and discomfort. Peri bottles are amazing for cleaning and soothing your sensitive areas and is definitely a great product to look into adding to the kit. These make it easier - I also have it packed in my hospital bag!

• Breast pump

  I’m planning on using this breast pump this time around. I also have lots of pumping bottles, milk storage bags, a bottle cooler, and a hands-free pumping bra on hand for those middle of the night pumping sessions. 

• Nipple cream
  There are a ton of options on the market for nipple butters and creams, so choose the one that you think will work best for you. I love this one. What’s so nice about this stuff is that it helps with treating dry, cracked, or sore nipples from all the breastfeeding and pumping. It is a MUST. Consider also getting a nipple shield if you plan to breastfeed!

• Diapers and wipes
  Keep things close that you will need in the middle of the night like diapers and wipes. I also have an extra changing pad nearby so I can change her without having to leave our room in the middle of the night!

• Snacks and drinks
  Something I didn’t expect as a first time mom was how hungry I would be while breastfeeding, I had more of an appetite then when I was pregnant! Definitely have your favorite snacks and drinks nearby, opt for protein bars and hydrating drinks to keep you going through the night!

When I think about what women’s bodies go through before, during, and after pregnancy, I can’t help but get emotional. Our bodies are incredible and they bring the most amazing gifts into this world. While postpartum may not be a walk in the park, it’ll be worth going through because of your little miracle baby. Keep in mind that you will be sleepy, hungry, full of emotions, and in pain, so prepare before you go into labor to avoid any added stressors like preparing a postpartum care kit. 

You got this mama! You are incredible, amazing, and beautiful! You will get through this! Am I missing anything? Let me know in the comments below!