Your Body After Birth
Your body has a lot going on after birth, and the things that help you feel comfortable can change from one day to the next. After a vaginal birth, perineum care products and maternity pads can be useful to have close by while you recover.
After a caesarean, C-section care products such as silicone scar patches and abdominal support garments can give you extra comfort. Compression tights and pelvic support garments can also be useful after either type of birth, particularly as you start getting out and about with your newborn.
Having a few postpartum essentials within reach gives you space to look after yourself while you soak up those early days with your new baby.
Looking After Yourself During the Early Weeks
The early weeks are full of feeding, cuddles and settling into your new routine. Your baby will naturally take up plenty of your attention, but a few postpartum essentials can help you stay comfortable, supported and nourished as you recover, too.
- Make feeding more comfortable
Breastfeeding can mean spending a lot of time feeding, particularly in the early weeks. A supportive maternity bra gives you comfortable, easy access for feeds, while breast pads help manage leaks between them. Nipple care creams can soothe dry or tender skin, and a milk collector can catch milk from the opposite breast during let-down so it doesn’t go to waste.
- Keep nutrition and hydration close
Your body is recovering from birth while also keeping up with the demands of caring for a newborn. Having a drink bottle within reach means you can stay hydrated during feeds, while easy snacks and postpartum supplements give you something to turn to when meals aren’t happening at regular times.
- Choose clothes you can wear all day
You may spend a lot of time feeding, resting and having skin-to-skin cuddles, so clothing that is easy to open and comfortable to wear can make a huge difference. Button-down pyjamas give you quick access for feeds, while a robe adds an extra layer when you’re up and about.
- Give your skin some extra care
Hormonal changes, disrupted sleep and the physical demands of those first weeks can affect your skin. Keeping a simple postpartum-friendly skincare routine means you can cleanse, moisturise and care for your skin without needing to figure out which products are safe while breastfeeding.
- Keep useful information close
The early weeks can bring questions about recovery, feeding, sleep and what’s normal after birth. Postpartum books give you reliable information, including guidance on when something is worth discussing with your midwife or GP.
With postpartum essentials ready and some helpful information close by, you can head into those early weeks feeling more prepared. When you're ready to shop, The Memo offers flexible payment options with Afterpay, free standard delivery on eligible orders over $199* and 30-day returns* and exchanges. Loyalty members earn points with every purchase.
FAQs
How long does postpartum recovery take?
There’s no single timeline for recovery after birth. You may feel noticeably better within the first few weeks, while other parts of recovery can take longer. Things such as pelvic floor changes, hormonal shifts and your energy levels can continue to change for months, so give yourself room to recover at your own pace.
What should I have ready for the first days at home?
Think about the things you’ll need while you’re feeding, resting and getting used to life with a newborn. Maternity pads, perineal or C-section care, easy-to-wear clothing, and supplements are a good place to start. The Postpartum Recovery List brings these postpartum essentials together if you want a more complete checklist.
What can I use for postpartum bleeding?
Postpartum bleeding, known as lochia, is normal after birth and can continue for several weeks as your body recovers. Maternity pads provide more coverage than regular period pads and can be useful during the heavier days.
What should I wear after giving birth?
Comfort usually matters more than having a whole new wardrobe. Soft maternity underwear, feeding-friendly bras, loose sleepwear, and easy layers can be useful as your body recovers.
When should I start using postpartum recovery products?
It really depends on the product and your recovery. Some essentials, such as maternity pads and perineum care, can be useful straight after birth, while others are more relevant as your body heals. Having a few basics ready before your due date means you can easily reach for them when needed.
What can help with postpartum recovery after a C-section?
After a caesarean, your incision needs time to heal while you’re adjusting to life with your newborn. C-section care products, such as silicone scar patches and abdominal support garments, can be useful, alongside comfortable clothing that doesn’t press against the incision.
