Wondering what to wear postpartum and what you’ll need for postpartum recovery? The fourth trimester is different for every new mom, and it can be challenging to navigate all the changes that happen after giving birth.
I’m a mom of two, and in my experience, planning your recovery is just as essential as packing your hospital bag. You may want to do both at the same time. Whether you’re heading out for a doctor’s appointment or simply want to feel comfortable at home, here are some must-have practical and stylish items to start your postpartum wardrobe. Plus, a postpartum recovery checklist with essentials to help soothe your body after delivery.
How to Dress Postpartum
The best postpartum clothes are comfortable, breathable and have easy access for breastfeeding or pumping. Start with basics like a comfortable nursing bra, supportive postpartum undies and loose-fitting pants and tops.
1. Nursing Bras
The best nursing bras are comfortable, supportive and easy to nurse in. Here’s my guide to the Best Nursing Bras for Large Breasts.
2. Comfortable Lounge Pants and Pajamas
During your postpartum recovery, you’ll want loose-fitting tops and stretchy pants. Make sure the waistband doesn’t dig into your skin.
3. Nursing Tops or Button Down Tees
For easy access while breastfeeding.
4. Nightgown
5. Robe
6. Compression Leggings
I love the Postnatal Recovery Tights from Active Truth. You’ll feel secure and supported in this postnatal recovery tight. It has a firm, ultra-high waistband and feels so comfortable. “Compression garments are recommended for new mums following childbirth to increase circulation to aid healing, reduce swelling and reduce post-pregnancy related aches and pains.”
7. Postpartum Underwear
Make sure your postpartum underwear is comfortable and doesn’t dig into your skin.
Postpartum Recovery Checklist
Nursing Pads
I like to use reusable ones at home and disposable ones when I’m traveling.
Heat + Ice Packs
Use heat packs before you nurse or pump. Ice packs provide instant relief when you’re all done.
Pads
You might need these for a while, so stock up!
Peri Bottle
Soothe down there with a peri bottle designed to make healing cleaner and easier.
Haakaa Breastmilk Collector
This will collect all your let down while you’re breastfeeding. Just slip it into your bra and pour your milk into a container when you’re done.
Nipple Relief
When I first started breastfeeding, I was practically in tears because my nipples were so sore. I started googling nipple relief and came across Silverette. These eco-friendly cups are made with silver, which has antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and antibacterial benefits to prevent and repair breastfeeding nipples.
Belly Wrap
I bought a belly wrap on Amazon after hearing about it from some of my mom friends. I started wearing it the day after giving birth and wore it for about an hour every day.
Don’t forget A Baby Wrap
A baby wrap keeps your baby close to you and lets you snuggle your little one while freeing up your hands. They’re honestly amazing! I used Moby baby wrap and Wildbird and loved them both.
Conclusion: Postpartum Recovery Checklist Essentials
Every mom’s postpartum experience is different. Having a supportive network of family and friends, frozen meals and essentials to help soothe your body can help you focus on your recovery and your new baby. I hope you found this postpartum recovery checklist helpful and that it helps you prioritize your needs.
- Remember to be kind to yourself.
- Rest whenever you can.
- Set boundaries (if you feel that you need to.)
- Find a routine that works for you.
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This is a life-saver. With all these mood swings, I have been struggling a lot with my clothes. However, this guide has helped clear my doubts. Thank you so much for this article. I will definitely try them. Keep sharing more. <3
Thanks Alex! I love all these recommendations and will be putting them to use next month when my baby girl arrives!
Such a great post! Thanks so much for sharing.