If you’re a mom-to-be, chances are you’ve already thought through everything your babe will need once they arrive (if not, we’ve got you). But in case no one’s filled you in yet, baby won’t be the only one coming home in diapers. Translation: You’re going to need plenty of care and attention post-delivery too. Because no matter how labor and delivery goes, postpartum recovery takes time, and we’ve found that these products can make the process a bit smoother. 

A Postpartum Recovery Checklist

• Recovery Essentials Kits: The moms on our team (and thousands of others…check the reviews!) swear by these all-in-one kits from Frida Mom for Vaginal Delivery Recovery and C-Section Recovery. You’ll likely end up buying a few extra things to go along with them, but they’re a great place to start.
  
  
• Care for down there: Because perineal tears, hemorrhoids, and the first postpartum poop happen. This perineal spray is soothing and made with natural ingredients. These cooling pads provide immediate relief for itching and burning. And stool softener is an absolute must for that first week or so post-delivery. Trust us. 
  
  
• Comfy cozies: A super soft robe you can lounge around the house in, nursing-friendly pajamas, and an easy outfit for when people are coming over and you want to feel put-together without spending all your energy figuring out what to wear. 
  
  
• Hydration: Staying hydrated post-delivery is crucial, especially for breastfeeding moms. Keep a big water bottle close by at all times (this one is spill-proof) and these sugar-free electrolyte packets are great for an extra boost. 
  
  
• Lip care: And speaking of staying hydrated...labor is intense and depletes us of hydration everywhere, our lips included. Combat chapped lips post-birth with this soothing lip mask. This one is a fave on our team, too!
  
  
• Skin care: You probably had a regimen for taking care of your skin during pregnancy, and it's just as important to care for it after baby arrives. This nutrient-packed moisturizer is hydrating, antimicrobial, and nourishing. Use it daily as part of your postpartum self-care ritual. And for C-section mamas, this scar treatment cream is amazing. 
  
  
• Breastfeeding: If you're planning on nursing, there are a handful of products you'll definitely want to have on-hand before you start. We've rounded them all up here. 

Essentials You Can’t Buy

There are plenty of things that can support you on your postpartum journey, but not all of them can be bought. Having a team of loved ones who can provide practical support (cleaning! hanging with the big sibs! cooking!) is essential, too.

And speaking of cooking, it's hard to overstate just how amazing it is to have meals taken care of in those early postpartum days. Let friends or family create a MealTrain for you, or cook a few freezer-friendy recipes in advance of your due date.