Postpartum Care
Postpartum Recovery Checklist
Essential items and supplies for mom's recovery after birth.
Best to start: Stock up during third trimester
Overview
Postpartum recovery is often overlooked during pregnancy planning, but having the right supplies can make healing much more comfortable.
Stock up on these items before baby arrives so you're prepared when you come home from the hospital.
Healing & Comfort
- Extra-large overnight pads or postpartum pads (2-3 packs)
- Disposable or mesh underwear
- Peri bottle (hospital provides but you may want backup)
- Witch hazel pads or spray
- Ice packs or padsicles (DIY: maxi pads with witch hazel, frozen)
- Stool softener and fiber supplement
- Hemorrhoid cream
- Pain reliever (ibuprofen, acetaminophen)
- Heating pad
- Donut pillow if needed
Breastfeeding Supplies
- Nipple cream (lanolin or alternative)
- Breast pads (disposable or reusable)
- Comfortable nursing bras
- Nursing tanks or tops
- Breast shells if inverted nipples
- Gel packs for breast pain (can be heated or cooled)
- Haakaa or manual breast pump
- Water bottle to keep hydrated
Clothing & Comfort
- High-waisted, loose underwear
- Comfortable pajamas or nightgowns
- Robe or cardigan
- Loose, comfortable pants
- Button-up or nursing-friendly tops
- Supportive slippers
- Belly wrap or postpartum support band (optional)
Practical Items
- Healthy snacks for easy access
- Large water bottle with straw
- Phone charger for bedside
- Dry shampoo
- Basic toiletries
- Nightlight
- Trash can near bed
- Waterproof mattress pad
Meal Prep
- Freezer meals prepared in advance
- Easy snacks (protein bars, nuts, dried fruit)
- Paper plates and disposable utensils
- Grocery delivery service set up
- Meal train organized by friends/family
- List of takeout restaurants
Mental Health Support
- List of postpartum support resources
- Therapist contact info if you have one
- Postpartum depression screening information
- Support group info (online or local)
- Partner or family help scheduled
- Realistic expectations about recovery
💡 Helpful Tips
- ✓Stock up before baby arrives - you won't want to shop postpartum
- ✓Set up stations around the house with supplies
- ✓Make padsicles in advance and freeze
- ✓Accept all offers of help
- ✓Rest is crucial - sleep when baby sleeps
- ✓Don't rush physical recovery - it takes 6+ weeks
- ✓Call doctor for: heavy bleeding, fever, severe pain, signs of infection
- ✓Watch for postpartum depression symptoms
- ✓Be gentle with yourself - recovery takes time
- ✓Pelvic floor exercises can wait until 6-week checkup
Related Checklists
💾 Tip: Use your browser's print function (Ctrl/Cmd + P) to save or print this checklist for easy reference.
This checklist is a general guide. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized recommendations based on your specific situation.