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Postpartum Recovery Hacks for New & Experienced Moms
Welcoming a new life into the world is an incredible journey, but it can also be physically demanding and emotionally challenging on women - especially during the postpartum period. As 3X Mama, I've seen firsthand the transformative power of the right postpartum care. Below is a list of my invaluable postpartum recovery hacks to make this season of life easier for you, whether you're a first-time mom or an experienced one.
Prioritize Self-Care after having a baby
In the whirlwind of caring for a newborn, it's easy to forget about your own needs. However, self-care during the postpartum period is essential and does not make you selfish. Make time for showers (even if just a few a week), nourishing meals even if you didn’t make it yourself, and adequate sleep (whenever possible). Consider setting up a support system with family or friends who can help with household tasks, allowing you to focus on your own recovery and bonding with that new little one.
Postpartum recovery hack: If you find yourself alone with the baby and no village to help you, create a postpartum self-care routine that includes moving a bassinet or pack n play right in your bathroom to lay down the little one. You may not get time for a full spa day but short, daily moments of taking a shower and putting on clean clothes will do wonders for your postpartum mood.
Invest in Comfortable Postpartum Clothing
Your body will go through significant changes after giving birth. Comfortable postpartum clothing can make a world of difference in how you feel. Trust me, I know it’s so easy to go day after day in pajamas for the first few weeks. But once you put on some clothes that actually make you feel good, you’ll be so glad you did. Look for pieces like the Davin & Adley Amelia Cami and Mia Boxers as a base layer. They’re made with buttery soft fabric that feels amazing against your sensitive postpartum skin. Plus, they have the perfect amount of compression to accommodate you postpartum body, while supporting you in all the right places.
Another key to postpartum comfort is finding breathable and lightweight stretchy knits. The Momper Romper is one of my all-time favorites for postpartum. It can be layered over your favorite pumping and nursing bras, worn with your postpartum underwear and it’s super versatile!
Postpartum recovery hack: Choose clothing that's easy to put on and take off, especially if you're recovering from a cesarean delivery. You will be spending a lot of time in nursing and pumping camis, and postpartum shorts with elastic waistbands! If you select pieces that look like an outfit, you won’t have to peel off multiple items when it’s time to change.
Exercise After Having a Baby
Exercise is a huge part of having a positive postpartum experience. While you should avoid strenuous workouts during the early weeks of postpartum recovery, gentle exercises can aid in your healing process. Consult with your healthcare provider before starting any exercise routine, but once given the green light, consider activities like stroller walks, postpartum yoga or pelvic floor exercises. These can help improve circulation, strengthen your core, and alleviate discomfort. Not to mention clear your mind! It’s a lot of work caring for a new little baby.
Postpartum recovery hack: Once you’re cleared to start exercising, make sure you’re wearing supportive, yet comfortable workout clothing with easy access for nursing and pumping (trust me you will need it!) I love this ribbed pumping and nursing crop cami as my sports bra and Mia boxers as postpartum workout shorts! This outfit is something you can live in postpartum and be ready for a workout too.
Postpartum Nutrition
Maintaining proper hydration and nutrition is crucial for postpartum recovery. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially if you're nursing or pumping. Focus on nutrient-rich foods like lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to aid in tissue repair and boost your energy levels. Warm broths are also incredible at healing your body from the inside. Consider meal prepping or asking for offers of home-cooked meals from loved ones to simplify your nutrition and minimize stress during this time.
Postpartum recovery hack: Prepare healthy, grab-and-go snacks to have on hand when breastfeeding hunger strikes. Most moms report eating more while breastfeeding than during pregnancy! Nuts, yogurt cups, fruit and pre-cut veggies are excellent choices. Keep them close by your bed, rocking chair, or pumping station for easy access all day long!
Seek Postpartum Support Groups
Postpartum recovery isn't just physical; it's emotional too. Many moms experience a range of emotions during this period, from joy to anxiety and sadness. It's crucial to reach out for emotional support when you need it. Talk openly with your partner, friends, or a therapist about your feelings. You're not alone in this journey, and seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. One of my favorite memories of postpartum was finding a local breastfeeding support group. We met weekly at a local community center to feed our babies together and talk about the new experiences we were all facing together. Those moms are still my friends 8 years later.
Postpartum recovery hack: Create a postpartum support network for yourself by joining local or online groups of new moms like Peanut. Sharing experiences and advice can be incredibly comforting. If you are an Instagram mom, the below are some of my favorite breastfeeding support accounts to follow.
Exclusive Pumping - @bemybreastfriend
Relatable mom life humor and pumping support- @mimiandpal
Breastfeeding encouragement and support (nursing and pumping)- @davinandadley
Lactation support - @az.breastfedbabies
Lactation support - @lactationchat
Co-sleeping for breastfeeding moms - @cosleepy
The postpartum period is a time of transformation, both physically and emotionally. Postpartum recovery is unique to each mom, so go at your own pace and be kind to yourself along the way. You're on one of life's most beautiful and challenging adventures, and you're doing an incredible job, Mama!
