Pack a Postpartum Survival Bag
Things For a New Mother to Have on Hand After Baby Arrives
Jan 25, 2009
Today’s mother-to-be is busy planning ahead for diapers, onesies and all things baby. But, once baby arrives she may find there are very few things on hand to keep her occupied and comfortable. A postpartum survival bag is strictly for the mother and is filled with things to soothe, pamper, nourish, and comfort her during the first few weeks with a new baby.
This bag is different from the hospital birth bag; it will never leave the house and should be placed in a room where the new mother will spend most of her time. Perhaps the survival bag will sit near the bed in the master bedroom, or in the nursery next to the rocker or recliner. For a multi-level home two or three bags may work best.
Comforting Items to Pack for a Postpartum Survival Bag
Everyone finds comfort in their own way so use these suggestions as a guideline to brainstorm things that soothe:
- Cooling feminine pads – take a bottle of witch hazel and lightly moisten an overnight size feminine pad, put four or more in a gallon zipper plastic bag and place in the freezer. To use simply remove one pad per use and line the panties – the cooling witch hazel is great for inflammed perineal tissue and hemorrhoids.
- Cooling breast pads – follow the same steps for the feminine pad but use a disposable or cloth breastfeeding pad instead.
- Flower Essences to the rescue! – pack a tin of Bach® Rescue Remedy edible pastilles in the bag for moments of stress and discomfort.
- Sore muscle rub – after the birth marathon aches and pains can be soothed with a favorite muscle cream in the postpartum days.
- Rice hot pack – a microwavable rice pack can add heat to tight muscles or a sore perineum, a hot water bottle or electric heating pad can substitute.
Food and Drink for the Postpartum Bag
Instead of following a strict list the mother-to-be should think of her tastes and interests before the pregnancy to guide her:
- Herbal and caffeine free teas – special blends are available for breastfeeding, postpartum and to encourage sleep.
- Chocolate or sweets – a little something for moments of indulgence.
- Electrolyte drinks – to help the body replace any nutrients lost during labor and breastfeeding.
- Healthy snacks – keep shelf-stable, nutritious snacks in the postpartum bag so mom has something at hand for breastfeeding and naptime.
- Bottled water – hydration is important, especially when breastfeeding, keep several bottles of water in the bag.
Pampering Items for the Mother
Think of things that will really pamper the mom and avoid activities that she would not enjoy. Here are some tips for pampering the new mother:
- A gift certificate for a postpartum massage – make sure the practitioner is certified in maternity or prenatal massage to know how to give a good postpartum massage.
- Aromatherapy – can be in the form of essential oils in a diffuser or an aromatherapy candle. Can be in scents to relax or energize.
- Lip balm and lotion – pregnancy and postpartum hormones can affect the skin, choose products that emollient and not heavily scented so the mother enjoys them and isn’t overwhelmed by the smell.
- Pajamas – a new pair of PJs can go a long way for the new mother that will spend the first days and weeks in loungewear.
These items also make great gifts for a new mother.
Items to Entertain the New Mother
A new mom may not need a lot of things to entertain her but these items can save her from moments of boredom and lighten her spirits:
- A good book
- New DVD
- Craft or handiwork – something small that can be accomplished while nursing a babe
- An audio book
- CD collection – keep a variety of music on hand to pass the hours or help relax
Where to Put the Postpartum Bag or Basket
The postpartum survival bag can be one or more tote bags, wicker baskets or any other appropriate vessel to contain all of the items. Specific stations can be created around the house with themes:
- Tea and relaxation – this could be in the nursery, bedroom or any room in the house where the new mother can escape to and find some quiet time.
- Television – catch up on the weather and news or watch a movie in the living room.
- Reading area – any part of the house for snuggling up with baby and a good book.
- Mommy time – the bathroom can be an aromatherapy destination and mom can enjoy a sitz bath, warm shower or dry brushing massage.
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