Welcoming a new baby into the world brings so much bliss, but it also brings with it much-needed recovery from childbirth. Mama’s body will require lots of nourishment and love as she heals during her postpartum period. Gifting thoughtful postpartum essentials will provide her with comfort, support and much-needed care. Here are our top ten must-have postpartum items that double as wonderful baby shower gifts because registries are for mamas, too.
1. Nursing Pillow
A nursing pillow is a lifesaver for breastfeeding moms. It helps position the baby comfortably, reducing strain on mama’s back and arms during the countless feeding hours. It’s also versatile, doubling as a support pillow for tummy time and for when the baby begins sitting up.
2. Postpartum herbs (tinctures and soaks)
Herbal soaks are a necessity for soothing and healing after vaginal childbirth as they offer much-needed relief during the initial perineal recovery phase. Oral herbal tinctures can also aid mama’s recovery with blends specific to hormone rebalancing and pain relief.
3. Comfortable Underwear and Nursing Bras
Stretchy, supportive nursing bras make breastfeeding easier and more comfortable. They give mama quick-access for feeding while providing necessary support. Look for bras with soft, breathable fabric and adjustable straps. The same goes for underwear. Think high-waisted, breathable and stretchy! Comfortable disposable underwear for the early days can also be nice when bleeding is still frequent.
4. Robe and Slippers
Robes are both comfy and functional. They offer easy coverage while mama does skin-to-skin with her baby and frequent feeds. Matching slippers can be a nice way to make mama feel cozy and cute. An added benefit is that warm feet are directly correlated to a warm and healing uterus.
5. Baby Carrier
A baby carrier allows parents to keep their baby close while having their hands free. It promotes bonding and can be incredibly helpful for soothing a fussy baby. Look for carriers made of comfortable fabrics that support both the parent and baby well.
6. Tallow Balms
Tallow balms are so versatile! Mamas tend to be dry in postpartum, so balms will be great to keep her lips, nipples and skin nourished. It’s even gentle on baby’s delicate skin and offers an effective diaper balm without any unnecessary ingredients.
7. Bed Tray
Mama will be spending lots of time healing and resting in bed in the early postpartum days. A bed tray offers a way for her to comfortably eat in bed without having to get up to eat elsewhere. It also can be a sweet space for her to journal or write her birth story.
8. Journal and Pen
A beautiful journal and pen set can be a cherished gift for new moms. It offers a space to document their journey, capture precious memories and process their thoughts and feelings during their transformative time.
9. Large Insulated Water Bottle with Straw
Staying hydrated is crucial for postpartum moms, especially those who are breastfeeding. An insulated water bottle with a straw makes it easy to drink from while she takes care of her baby and encourages regular daily hydration to promote her overall health and well-being.
10. Meal Delivery Service
Gift a meal delivery service specifically geared towards postpartum (mama-meals.com is one of our favorites) to ensure the new parents have warming, nutritious and easy-to-prepare meals during the healing postpartum period because healing starts from the inside out! This thoughtful gift will be a lifesaver, providing one less thing to worry about as mama and partner adapt to their new normal.
By gifting postpartum essentials, you’re not just offering useful items; you’re showing up in an impactful way for the new mom. These items help in the recovery process and make daily life a bit easier as she transitions into motherhood. These gifts are a way of saying, “I’m here for you”. If you can’t contribute to mama’s registry financially, you can help with household chores, cook meals, run errands or simply be there as a listening ear. These essential postpartum items coupled with the emotional and hands-on support of their caring village, ensure the new parents feel loved and supported during one of the most beautiful and transformative times of their lives.