It’s no secret that the postpartum period isn’t easy. But there are some simple hacks you can set up ahead of time to make it easier! Read on for my tips for a smoother postpartum!
- Meal Prep: Plan on not being in the mood to cook for several days, or, more likely, several weeks. If you can prepare some meals ahead of time to be stored in the fridge or freezer, your postpartum life will be much easier!
- Padsicles: If you have a vaginally delivery, you’ll be sore for anywhere from a few days to several weeks. Prepare some padsicles ahead of time for quick relief postpartum. You can find instructions online, but most recipes will call for you to pour witch hazel, aloe, and (optionally) essential oil on maxi pads and store them in the freezer till you’re ready to use them.
- Sticky Note Tasks: Prepare a list of tasks and chores on sticky notes to post on your fridge for when friends or family come by to meet baby. The rule: before they get to hold (or meet, depending on what you’re comfortable with) your baby, they must complete one task. Some ideas include taking out the trash, switching around the laundry, loading or unloading the dishwasher, etc.
- Diaper Changing Stations: Newborns poop and pee a lot! You likely won’t want to go to the changing table in the nursery every time you need to change a diaper in the first few weeks. Set up small baskets of diapers, wipes, diaper cream, blankets, etc. in the rooms where you spend the most time. That way you’re ready no matter where you are!
- Breastfeeding Kit: Set up a basket of supplies to use every time you breastfeed. Burp cloths, nursing cover, a book to read, bottles of water, etc. Grab it every time you feed baby, and settle in! Bonus: If you have a toddler or older child, include some items for them too! Siblings may feel a bit left out when they see their baby nursing, so including books, toys, and activities to keep them busy and near you will help! Make sure to include a baby doll – many older siblings like to imitate breastfeeding too!
As always, make sure you also have good support during the postpartum time – friends, family, a postpartum doula. Accept all offers of assistance, and don’t be afraid to ask for help!