tops my 'Super Posh Post-Partum List' of things for comfort, healing and care in those early weeks.
This blend of Comfrey leaf, Lavender flower, Shepherd's Purse, Uva Ursi leaf, Plaintain leaf, Red Raspberry leaf, Yarrow flower & Sea salt is fabulous! A warm soak in these herbs is healing for both mother and baby by easing sore muscles and tender tissue and does the impossible by making your sweet baby smell even sweeter. Bathe as desired, use as directed. Herbs can be used twice, so save the strained herbs in your pot to use again the next day.
I also love to have...
*Arnica Montana in a topical oil and pill form for bruises and sore muscles.
*Lactation Support - Mother's Milk Tea and a supplement of Mega Mam if nursing more than one baby or facing other milk production challenges. Dandelion is another helpful herb, delicious in the form of coffee-alternative Dandy Blend. A good lactation consultant to call is gold, if you're in Austin ask for Cheryl at Special Addition.
*A bellywrap - cannot stress how important and healthy it is for you wrap up! Give your uterus a little support, she's just had the workout of her life and continues contracting for the next two weeks on her journey back to normal size.
*Gentle oils like Mothers Special Blend are as good for your recovering skin as your baby's brand-new wrinkles and a great after-bath massage for both of you.
*Goldenseal Root capsules to care for your baby's cord. Sprinkle about 1/3 of a capsule on the cord about twice a day for quick healing.
*Lightweight swaddling blankets by Aden + Anais are favorites of mine!
*Placenta pills for hormonal support, increased energy and a boost to your milk supply. Austin's local Placenta Benefits specialist is Lindsey Roberts, she's fab!
*A ring sling to carry your baby close.
*For daytime sleeping, a dreamy eye pillow.
Items that feel not so posh but are knitty gritty necessary include granny panties and a variety of pads with different levels of protection, all with wings! One for very heavy flow, one for a medium flow and a pack of lightdays. With wings!
Tucks –hey, hemorrhoids can happen. Dermaplast First Aid spray can also be a great pain reliever and Hydrogen Peroxide is good for cord care, treating open wounds and infection.
That most important thing your baby needs is YOU. You and your breasts. To give your baby the best of you be prepared to take care of yourself, being sure you have help with the rest of your life so you can rest with your baby. Wrap up, stay horizontal as much as possible and stay fed and well hydrated and just keep your baby with you, with constant access to your breasts.
As far as baby care you'll find one of the most annoying and frustrating things about being new parents is all the conflicting advice you receive. There are many ways to care for a baby, you will find your own. Take all advice (including mine!) with a big grain of salt and have confidence in your instincts!
Tell me Posh Mama's what made a difference for you when you welcomed your baby!
