Postpartum Essentials: Must-Have Recovery Items After Giving Birth

Giving birth? Yeah, that’s a major event. Your body just pulled off a miracle, but the postpartum recovery can be a lot. 

We’re talking aches, leaks, and a level of exhaustion you didn’t see coming. It’s not just about soaking up every moment with your little one, it’s about taking care of yourself, too. That’s where we come in.

At The Honey Pot, we know postpartum recovery takes more than just a little encouragement. That’s why we put together this guide to help you heal, feel human again, and get back to owning it. 

If you’re ready to dive into the essentials you need after bringing life into the world, keep reading. 

What Does Postpartum Mean?

Postpartum is the phase that kicks off the moment your baby is born. It’s your body’s recovery after the marathon that is pregnancy and childbirth. 

Your hormones? All over the place. Your body? Still finding its balance. And postpartum? It’s not just a few days. It’s weeks, sometimes months, of healing, inside and out.

Whether you had a vaginal delivery or a C-section, this phase is all about getting your body back to its groove. The bleeding, the soreness, and the exhaustion is totally normal. Postpartum is more than just "after baby." It's a whole process where your body needs support, patience, and recovery tools to get through it.

What Are the Must-have Recovery Items After Giving Birth?

You made it through childbirth, now what? Your body’s not just going to bounce back overnight. Your body deserves care and support, and that’s where these postpartum essentials come in.

From soothing sore spots to managing that bleeding phase, these items are here to help you get through the postpartum rollercoaster. You might be wondering what you actually need, so let’s break down the recovery must-haves.

Postpartum Underwear

The postpartum recovery starts with underwear — because lochia (or postpartum bleeding) is a real thing. Forget your regular undies for a bit and grab some postpartum-specific underwear. 

These are designed to be extra absorbent and super comfy, giving you one less thing to worry about. Think high-waisted, full-coverage, and breathable. Whether you go with the hospital’s mesh ones or invest in washable options, you’ll want plenty of pairs to get you through those first few weeks.

Witch Hazel

Witch hazel is a postpartum essential. This plant-powered ingredient is famous for its soothing properties, making it perfect for tender areas after birth. Tackling general itchiness or discomfort, witch hazel is your clutch player in keeping your honeypot cool, calm, and comfortable.

And our Soothing Witch Hazel Intimate Wash takes it a step further. OB/GYN-tested and pregnancy-safe, it gently cleanses while keeping you refreshed and helping you maintain a healthy vagina pH range. Pair it with our wipes for the ultimate postpartum care routine!

Nipple Cream

If you’re breastfeeding, your nipples are in for a wild ride. Between the constant nursing and pumping, dry and cracked nipples are almost a given. That’s where nipple cream comes in.

A good nipple cream, preferably lanolin-free and plant-based, helps soothe and heal cracked skin, making breastfeeding way less painful. If it’s baby safe, you don’t need to wash it off between feeds. Smooth it on after each session your nipples will thank you.

Sitz Bath

A sitz bath is another go-to for postpartum recovery. It’s essentially a mini bath for your perineal area, designed to soothe soreness, reduce swelling, and promote healing. 

All you need is a basin that fits over your toilet and some warm water. You can add Epsom salts for extra relief. Taking a few minutes each day for a relaxing soak can make a huge difference in your recovery. 

Belly Binder

Belly binders might sound extra, but they can be a game-changer after giving birth. These stretchy, supportive bands help give your core and lower back some much-needed support as your body heals. 

They can also help you feel a bit more secure, especially if you had a C-section. Belly binders aren’t a must for everyone, but if you’re dealing with postpartum discomfort or want extra stability while you get back on your feet, they’re worth a shot.

Nursing Pads

Leaking while breastfeeding? Yeah, that’s going to happen. Nursing pads are a must to keep you dry and comfortable between feeds. Disposable or reusable, nursing pads slip right into your bra to soak up leaks, helping you avoid awkward, damp moments. 

They’re an easy but essential tool during those early weeks when your milk supply is still adjusting. 

Cotton Pads

Cotton pads might seem basic, but they’re a postpartum staple you don’t want to skip. Regular pads just don't cut it when you’re dealing with postpartum bleeding. You need something soft, breathable, and absorbent enough to handle the flow without irritation. This is where our Organic Cotton Cover Pads shine. 

Made with OCS-Certified Cotton Covers, these pads are ultra-soft with a super-absorbent core. Infused with soothing essential oils like lavender, aloe vera, and mint, they provide comfort and cooling relief when you need it most. Say goodbye to discomfort and hello to a more peaceful recovery.

Stool Softeners

Postpartum constipation is no joke. Whether it’s from the pain meds or the whole healing process, going to the bathroom can be daunting after birth. Fortunately, we have stool softeners. 

These little lifesavers make things a bit easier by softening your stool, helping you avoid the strain that could irritate stitches or make recovery more uncomfortable. Just be sure to check in with your healthcare provider before using them. 

Peri Bottle

After childbirth, wiping with toilet paper can be a bit rough. A peri bottle allows you to gently clean yourself with water, making bathroom trips way more comfortable. This tool is particularly useful if you’ve had stitches or tears, providing a soothing and hygienic cleanse with minimal irritation. 

A Final Word

Bringing life into the world is powerful. Make sure you have the right recovery tools from cooling pads to Witch Hazel Wipes, these items are here to make the healing process smoother and a little less overwhelming.

At The Honey Pot, we’re all about giving your body what it deserves — dermatologist-tested, kind-to-skin, and plant-derived products that take care of your vulva the way it should be. So check us out today because your recovery deserves nothing less. 

Sources: 

Postpartum: Stages, Symptoms & Recovery Time | Cleveland Clinic

Witch-Hazel - an overview | ScienceDirect Topics

Breastfeeding: Sore and Cracked Nipples | University Hospitals | Northeast Ohio

Sitz Bath: Definition & Benefits | Cleveland Clinic