Postpartum Essentials: 11 Must-Haves for Recovery After Vaginal Birth
Women are seriously superheroes. After going through pregnancy, labor, and delivery, I have a whole new appreciation for what our bodies are capable of. And let me tell you, nothing could have fully prepared me for the physical recovery that comes after having a baby! Thankfully, I had a relatively smooth vaginal delivery with my son, Maverick, but even then, my body was SO sore afterward. Between postpartum discomfort, breastfeeding challenges, and adjusting to life with a newborn, those first few weeks were a whole new adventure. One thing I quickly learned? Having the right postpartum recovery essentials at home can make a huge difference in your comfort.
Today, I’m sharing my favorite postpartum essentials for vaginal birth, including the products I personally used and loved. From peri bottles and soothing pads to comfortable nursing bras and breastfeeding supplies, these are the items that helped make my postpartum recovery a little easier. Whether you’re preparing your hospital bag, putting together a postpartum care kit, or shopping for a new mama, I hope this list helps you feel a little more prepared for life after delivery. Let’s get into it, mamas!
This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you. Always follow your healthcare provider’s postpartum recovery instructions.
1. Sitz Bath Seat for Postpartum Perineal Recovery, $9.99
Let’s talk about something nobody really prepares you for: how SORE you can feel down there after giving birth! Whether you’re dealing with hemorrhoids, perineal tenderness, or general discomfort after a vaginal delivery, sitting down isn’t always the most pleasant experience. That’s why I highly recommend having a sitz bath seat ready before you give birth. A sitz bath allows you to soak your perineal area in shallow, comfortably warm water, which can help soothe tenderness and provide temporary relief. I also purchased this sitz soak, although plain warm water is often all you need. Check with your healthcare provider before adding salts or other ingredients, especially if you have stitches. Why I loved it: A simple, affordable way to make postpartum perineal care feel a little more comfortable.
2. Comfortable Nursing Bras for Breastfeeding Moms, $36.99 (Pack Of 5)
If you’re planning to breastfeed, do yourself a favor and stock up on comfortable nursing bras! I tried SO many different brands, including the beloved Kindred Bravely nursing bras, but honestly? I found those super uncomfortable. These affordable Amazon nursing bras were the only ones I could comfortably wear! They have that soft, barely-there bralette feel, which I especially appreciated when my breasts were sore and sensitive after delivery. Plus, they’re a fraction of the price of many popular nursing bra brands. One thing to keep in mind: They don’t have underwire or provide much lift, so if you have a larger chest or prefer more support, you may want a different style. Why I loved them: Soft, stretchy, budget-friendly nursing bras that didn’t feel restrictive.
3. Lansinoh Breast Therapy Packs for Nursing Comfort, $11.97
Nobody warned me just how sore my breasts could feel during those early postpartum weeks! These reusable Lansinoh breast therapy packs quickly became one of my favorite breastfeeding essentials. They can be cooled or gently warmed, depending on what feels most comfortable, and they come with soft covers that make them easy to use. I personally preferred the warmth and loved how soothing they felt. For breastfeeding discomfort, brief warmth before feeding may help with milk flow, while cold packs after feeding are often recommended for swelling and tenderness. Why I loved them: Reusable hot and cold packs that made breastfeeding recovery more comfortable.
4. Soft and Stretchy Nursing Tank Tops, $36.99 (Pack Of 3)
Another absolute favorite from my postpartum wardrobe! If you’re nursing, comfortable tank tops with easy-access clasps can make those frequent feeding sessions SO much easier. These nursing tanks are incredibly soft, stretchy, and comfortable, which is exactly what I wanted during the newborn stage. The clasps are easy to open, making breastfeeding more convenient without needing to change your entire outfit. They also come in a bunch of colors, so you can stock up on a few favorites. Why I loved them: Comfortable, practical nursing tops that made everyday breastfeeding a little easier.
5. Lansinoh Disposable Nursing Pads for Breast Milk Leaks, $9.98
One thing I quickly learned about breastfeeding? Milk can leak at the most unexpected times! Not everyone experiences breast milk leakage, but if you do, nursing pads can be a lifesaver. I loved keeping these Lansinoh disposable nursing pads in my diaper bag, purse, and around the house. They helped protect my bras and clothing from leaks, which meant less laundry. And trust me, when you have a newborn, anything that reduces the laundry pile is a WIN. I personally preferred disposable pads for convenience, although reusable nursing pads are another great option when changed and washed regularly. Why I loved them: Convenient, absorbent nursing pads that helped keep my clothes dry.
6. Lansinoh Upside Down Peri Bottle, $11.75
If you’re preparing a postpartum recovery kit for vaginal delivery, a peri bottle should be near the top of your shopping list! When I gave birth to Maverick, the hospital provided me with a traditional peri bottle. Thankfully, I had already packed this Lansinoh upside-down version in my hospital bag. And girl, I am SO glad I did. The angled design makes it easier to rinse hard-to-reach areas without awkwardly positioning the bottle. I used mine for weeks after delivery to gently cleanse tender areas and dilute urine while using the bathroom, which helped reduce stinging. I loved it so much that I ordered a second one to keep in our downstairs bathroom. Having a peri bottle on each floor meant I never had to worry about running upstairs when I needed one. Why I loved it: A convenient, gentle way to keep the perineal area clean and more comfortable after delivery.
7. Lansinoh Breast Milk Storage Bags, $25.99
Before having Maverick, I wasn’t sure whether I would need breast milk storage bags. Fast-forward to postpartum life, and I was SO glad I had them! Once I started pumping and building a small freezer stash, these Lansinoh storage bags became a regular part of my routine. They’re designed for storing expressed breast milk and are convenient for freezing individual portions. For freshly expressed breast milk, commonly recommended freezer storage is approximately six months for best quality, with up to 12 months acceptable under appropriate conditions. Always follow current storage guidelines and label each bag with the expression date. Why I loved them: An easy, space-saving way to organize and freeze expressed breast milk.
8. Donut Pillow Seat Cushion for Postpartum Sitting Discomfort, $29.99
Let’s just say sitting down after vaginal delivery wasn’t exactly my favorite activity. Even though my delivery went relatively smoothly, I experienced quite a bit of soreness afterward. Having a cushion available made certain sitting positions more comfortable for me during those first few days. And yes, the fact that this one is pink was definitely a bonus! One thing worth mentioning: Donut cushions aren’t ideal for everyone because they can sometimes increase pressure around sensitive tissues. A regular soft cushion or other supportive seating position may work better, so ask your postpartum care provider what they recommend. Why I loved it: An extra comfort option during the early days when sitting felt uncomfortable.
9. Lansinoh Contact Nipple Shields for Breastfeeding, $8.22
I never expected breastfeeding to be as challenging as it was during those first few weeks. Between learning how to latch properly and dealing with nipple sensitivity, there was definitely a learning curve! These Lansinoh contact nipple shields became part of my breastfeeding routine. I particularly liked their thin, flexible design and the cut-out shape that allowed for more direct skin-to-skin contact with Maverick. They felt comfortable for me to use, and I appreciated having an option that helped us navigate some of those early feeding challenges. Why I loved them: A flexible nipple shield design that worked well for my breastfeeding experience.
10. TUCKS Medicated Cooling Pads for Postpartum Relief, $7.68
If there’s one postpartum product that was recommended to me over and over again, it was TUCKS cooling pads. And after giving birth, I understood why! I used these pads as part of my postpartum care routine when I wanted extra soothing relief. They contain witch hazel and are commonly used for temporary relief of hemorrhoid-related discomfort and certain types of perineal irritation. I found the cooling sensation particularly comforting during those early recovery days. Why I loved them: Convenient cooling pads that helped soothe postpartum discomfort.
11. Lansinoh Hot and Cold Pads for Postpartum Perineal Comfort, $12.99
I tried several different postpartum cooling products, and these Lansinoh hot and cold pads ended up being some of my favorites! What I love about them is their versatility. They can be cooled or warmed according to the manufacturer’s instructions, making them useful for different comfort needs during recovery. I especially appreciated having a reusable option available at home. Make sure to use the recommended fabric barrier to protect your skin, follow the heating and cooling directions, and clean the pads properly between uses. Why I loved them: Comfortable, reusable pads that offered flexible hot and cold options for postpartum recovery.
More Postpartum Essentials Worth Having on Hand
Along with my favorite products above, there are a few other postpartum care essentials I recommend looking into before delivery. Preparation H Cream is a hemorrhoid care option to discuss with your healthcare provider, particularly if you’re breastfeeding or healing from delivery. X-Large (Soft Pads) are especially useful for postpartum bleeding, also known as lochia. Legendairy Milk Sunflower Lecithin is a supplement some breastfeeding moms use, although evidence for preventing plugged ducts is limited, so check with your healthcare provider before taking it. Lansinoh Herbal Perineal Spray is another optional perineal care product, but be sure to review the ingredients and ask your provider whether it’s appropriate for your recovery. Finally, Sitz Bath Salts are something some moms enjoy adding to a sitz bath, although plain warm water is generally sufficient and additives may irritate healing tissue.
Want to browse even more of my favorite postpartum products? Click here to see even more postpartum goodies!
How to Prepare a Postpartum Recovery Kit Before Giving Birth
One of my biggest pieces of advice for expecting moms is to prepare your postpartum recovery supplies BEFORE your baby arrives. Trust me, the last thing you’ll want to do after giving birth is spend hours browsing Amazon for a peri bottle or extra pads. I recommend setting up a small postpartum care station in your bathroom with your most-used essentials. For vaginal birth recovery, that might include a peri bottle, maternity pads, clean underwear, a sitz bath seat, and any cooling products recommended by your healthcare provider. If you’re planning to breastfeed, keep nursing bras, breast pads, burp cloths, and a large water bottle within reach of your usual feeding spot. And don’t forget to stock up on comfortable loungewear! Those first few weeks are all about resting, recovering, and getting to know your sweet little baby.
More Pregnancy, Postpartum & Newborn Favorites From Mash Elle
If you’re preparing for your baby’s arrival or navigating those early newborn days, I’ve shared plenty of other helpful motherhood finds here on Mash Elle! My First Trimester Pregnancy Amazon Essentials roundup includes comfortable clothing, hydration essentials, and products I used during early pregnancy. You can also check out my New Mom Essentials for more nursing and everyday comfort favorites, along with my Newborn Baby Essentials for feeding supplies, sleepers, and baby gear.
If you’re researching strollers, don’t miss my Peg Perego YPSI Stroller Review, where I share our experience using the stroller during Maverick’s newborn stage. For even more affordable Amazon finds, browse my Amazon Storefront: Fashion, Beauty, Home & Mom Finds.
