Seven essentials for the first 48 hours after birth… that are achievable wherever you birth!
Whether you’re packing your hospital bag or stringing up the fairy lights for your home birth, there are some simple essentials that will be your postpartum saviours in those first 48 hours after birth.
Warmth is one of the key principles for postpartum recovery and regardless of whether you are in an air conditioned hospital or not, keeping your feet warm is your first step towards healing. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) they believe that the temperature of your feet is directly related to the temperature of your womb. So a pair of warm socks is the perfect start to your postpartum journey.
As your new baby suckles at the breast, your uterus starts to contracts to slow bleeding and return to it’s pre pregnancy size. These cramps also known as after birth pains tend to intensify with each birth but they can still be uncomfortable with your first baby. A heat pack that can be microwaved is a great easy option for hospital or home. The warmth on your lower abdomen can help soothe any discomfort and encourage rest, relaxation and healing.
The first toilet visit after giving birth can be a little daunting and scary. Regardless of how your birth unfolded, you can be quite sore and swollen. This is where an upside down peri bottle can be a welcome tool. An upside down peri bottle is super easy to use and it is small and portable so you can take it to the hospital with you too. You can either fill it with warm water or a herbal infusion to help cleanse and heal.
You’ve stocked up on the nappies for your baby but I bet you didn’t think you’d be rocking them too. It can be a bit worrying how attached you become to your own nappies. They are more comfortable than I’m sure most people would like to admit and they are more realistic and comfortable than pads for the early days of lochia (postpartum bleeding).
Where your baby was only moments ago is now an empty space. While those after birth contractions are working their magic, it still takes time for your uterus to return to its pre pregnancy size and for your organs to return to their rightful place. A pair of compression briefs, short or even a tub bandage can really help bring everything together and help you feel supported during the rapid changes of early postpartum.
Hydration is really important after birth for replenishing fluids and rehydrating the body and promoting recovery. Continuing to prioritise warmth as a key postpartum principle includes avoiding cold drinks. Warm teas and herbal infusions are a great way to stay hydrated and warm. Fill a thermo with slices of ginger, goji berries, red dates, some lemon and honey. This can be filled with boiling water and sipped on during the early hours after birth. You can continue to refill the thermo a couple of times to ensure you are well hydrated but also enjoying the healing benefits of simple ingredients and electrolytes.
A big bowl of congee is the perfect meal to devour post birth. It is gentle on the digestive system and full of nourishing broth and energy rich carbohydrates. Congee is easy to make in big batches and it freezes well. Pop a couple of jars of frozen congee out to defrost when you go into labour and then heat a bowl for a quick nourishing first meal. Your delicious congee can be heated on the stove at home or in the microwave at the hospital. If you are really organised you can pack your favourite bowl too.
