Pregnancy & postpartum essentials
From the moment you see those two lines, everything begins to change - the extra bedroom that was an office becomes a nursery, the latest fashion hauls become baby-sized, and dinner conversations now center on potential baby names. With those changes come physical and emotional ones as well, and a new set of challenges to be addressed.
Whether this is your first, second, or third pregnancy, or you’re looking to support a friend or family member with a little one on the way, we’ve gathered some of our favorite pregnancy and postpartum essentials below.
Items to make pregnancy easier
For the growing pains
As the body changes with pregnancy, it can come with its fair share of growing pains. Round ligament pain can start as early as the first trimester, and sometimes those core and pelvic floor muscles could use a little extra support. With a softer material and stretchier design, this pregnancy support band is one of our favorites.
There’s nothing quite like pregnancy tired. The growing demands on your body, along with some uncomfortable pregnancy symptoms, can make it even harder to get much-needed sleep. A pregnancy pillow can be helpful in supporting your changing body. We love this one that allows you to use the pillow you’re used to, while also supporting your belly and back - and it has interchangeable pillows in case you need extra support for your hips.
Your skin (and perhaps your patience) is pushed to the limit during pregnancy and certainly earns a little spa day treatment. While stretch marks are perfectly normal and to be expected, this stretch mark care kit can help keep your skin moisturized and reduce the appearance of stretch marks during and after pregnancy.
Cozy essentials while nesting
Hopefully, you’re able to escape the morning sickness trenches, but regardless, there will be plenty of times you’ll want nothing more than to lounge around and be cozy. These joggers from Kindred Bravely are perfect for binging your favorite show while pregnant, and because of the stretchy material, they will fit postpartum too! Pair it with this wireless nursing sports bra, and you’ll be set!
Nothing beats getting out of a shower and putting on fuzzy socks, especially while pregnant. These socks are perfect for pregnancy and your hospital stay as well because of the grippers. Add on this fleece robe, and you’re ready for restful days while pregnant, your hospital stay, and recovery during the fourth trimester. And of course, don’t forget to stay hydrated with a cute water bottle.
Postpartum necessities for recovery
If there’s ever a time a mom could use some extra pampering, it’s during the fourth trimester! Balancing her own recovery and caring for the baby should be its own Olympic sporting event.
Items to help during recovery
Sure, the hospital sends mom home with many of the supplies that she needs during her recovery, but these items can make it a little easier. A peri bottle that can turn upside down, for instance, is far more manageable than the hospital-provided one. We personally love this one! These ice pads are perfect for swelling and pain, and this perineal spray is great for tears. This belly band is great for supporting your core and posture postpartum and offers a little extra support for c-section mamas. Of course, no postpartum arsenal is complete without Tucks pads and postpartum underwear!
Breastfeeding support
The first couple of weeks of breastfeeding can come with their own challenges. Between cracked nipples, engorgement, and back pain from being hunched over, mom deserves some support. This nipple cream from Momcozy is magical for sore nipples - and it smells great too ! These disposable nursing pads are great while your supply regulates, and these reusable ones are perfect too once you’re up for the extra laundry. Don’t forget to grab some of these gel packs that can be used hot or cold for engorgement or mastititis and a nursing support pillow to help those aching shoulders.
Celebrating mom and her new little one
Beyond aiding mom’s recovery, you will want to celebrate her new little one! This precious necklace is perfect for adding baby’s name and birthstone, and this initial necklace is adorable for moms with multiple children. Mom will be living in cozy clothes for a while and this customizable sweatshirt or this t-shirt are great options to add to her wardrobe.
Mom should spend a little extra time resting after baby, so why not make it snugglier with a new fuzzy throw? She’ll also be needing to stay hydrated, and this insulated straw cup is perfect for at home and on the go!
If none of these items are what you’re looking for, offering to bring a hot meal or grab some gift cards for their favorite takeout can be a game-changer when everyone is tired in the beginning, and offering to help around the home can be invaluable. Is there something you’d add to the list that we forgot? Let us know in the comments!
