Some Postpartum Essentials

May 16, 2017

Second time around this block. This time, I knew what I needed to make my postpartum season and nursing easier, more comfortable, and practical for the life I live.

Wrap

One of the first things I knew I wanted right after birth was a wrap. Now, for me this wasn’t even about getting right back into shape (although I am a health and fitness advocate). I wanted a wrap for support. After I had Hallen, I had the worst nursing back, and I couldn’t even wear her, because my stomach muscles were too weak. I did a lot of research and finally landed on the Belly Bandit. It seemed simple enough to use, and all the reviews were great. My sweet hubby got me this as a Christmas present, and I was beyond excited to finally use it. I didn’t actually put it on until the day we left the hospital as I was getting dressed and ready to leave. As soon as I put it on, I immediately thought, “oh no! I should have gotten the next size up!” It didn’t fit well. So, I ran right back to the box. My pre-pregnancy size was correct for the size I ordered…and then I read, “if it doesn’t fit the first day you put it on, try again the next day. Your uterus and still shrinking, and you’re still losing fluids.”

I had my husband help me get it around my stomach as tight as possible, and decided to just go with it. The box said to! And already the next day it fit significantly better. I wish I had taken a photo of day one to show you guys, so you could really see the difference!

These photos were taken three weeks postpartum. I pull the wrap as tight as I can get it. And now, the ends do meet. The first day, I could hardly velcro it together. I started going on walks the second day I was home. I forgot this wrap when we left, and I started feeling a sinking feeling in my stomach like I had just been punched 20 times. I knew it was because my abs still weren’t strong enough to hold me up (so to speak). We went back, grabbed the wrap, and I was able to walk around our neighborhood for a short walk. It’s amazing what you can’t do when your core isn’t strong. This wrap gave me stability, and it helped get me back to my pre-pregnancy shape.

2. Nursing Bra

Another essential is a great nursing bra! I’ve had several bras that I love with molded cups, but by the end of the day, I NEED to take them off. I got to try a seamless bra from Ingrid & Isabel, and LOVE it. It’s so soft, still gives me shape, and I could literally sleep in it. It’s easy to use with one hand when I’m nursing to unclasp and then clasp it back. There are removable pads for extra shape. It’s really soft, breathable fabric that makes you feel secure and look great under clothes still.

3. Nursing Nightgown

I’m sure there are many essentials that I’ll continue to add on to this list for you, but remember, my brain is only working at half capacity right now! So, I’m capping the list at three right now. That makes it easier for you to remember as well ha!

When I had Hallen, I got a nursing nightgown and LOVED it. I wore it over and over and over again. So, I knew I needed another one this time around. I tried one from one of my beloved brands, Ingrid & Isabel. It’s a sweet blush color (my favorite), and has the same ease of their bras when using it. There’s a clasp on both sides for drop down cups, and it’s easy to reattach when done. This just makes night time feedings a lot easier and a little more glamorous! Not that you’ll feel glamorous waking up all night, but it’ll be comfortable and you can even do it with your eyes closed!