Okay, mommas! I am going to share with you some things that I needed after having my son. Note: this is from my experience and it may vary from women to women.
Obviously, having a baby is an amazing thing. You hear all the lovely things to come. What you don't hear is how miserable you may be after giving birth.
When I gave birth, I had an epidural so immediately after I was feeling GREAT. It wasn't until I had to get up for my shower, that I realized just what my body had gone through. After you have a baby, you are constantly being checked on by nurses. They will press on your belly, rather hard, to make sure your uterus is where it should be and to check for other things as well. It is not comfortable at all. But they also take a look at your lady {if you know what I mean}. You will expect for her not to be the norm, because well, you just pushed out a baby...But what you may not expect is for her to be swollen so big you can barely walk. And don't even try to look, ladies. Because you WILL cry. I made that mistake.
Along with that scary sight, you will be too sore to even care that while attempting your shower, you made the bathroom look like someone was murdered. Yes, we all know you bleed after having your sweet baby. But what you don't know is how uncontrollable it might be.
One last thing, that may haunt you for a while. Hemorrhoids. Need I saw more?
There are plenty of other things that will make you feel unlike yourself and you feel like you never will. But give it time. You'll be back to normal in a few weeks!
Here are some MUST HAVES. Your hospital will probably provide these things, but if they don't -- make your husband go get you these things ASAP.
First off, granny panties = your best friend. They will go nicely with the rather large pads you will need.
THESE BOTTLES. It is VERY important to wash yourself after every bathroom break after giving birth. After what you just went through, the last thing you want is an infection. And it will relieve some soreness. I used these for probably 3 weeks, I just felt so much better if I did. I filled it up with warm water and just washed after I used the restroom.
Witch hazel. I cannot stress how important this stuff was to me. I used a huge bottle! If you don't want to spend money on more tucks pads, just sprinkle some witch hazel on a pad! I did this for weeks. Also, if you are unfortunate & get the dreaded hemorrhoids, THIS works wonders. Don't waste money on those expensive creams. This stuff is amazing!
One last thing, I know you won't be feeling wonderful. Up all night with a newborn, being sore, and just puny. But take some time out of your day to freshen up. Take a shower, throw on a dab of makeup. Makes a world of difference and will make you feel better.
I know this post isn't helpful if you have a c-section, but this is just from my experience & I hope I helped prepare you! :)
