Ah, the first few weeks of motherhood. In the moment it seems they'll never end. You're exhausted, overjoyed, and overwhelmed. Just when you think you're a failure and you aren't sure you're going to make it through-- it's over. You magically got the baby to sleep and hey- he nursed with a strong latch. You cooked a meal for the first time in weeks and a load of laundry made it out the washing machine and into the dryer before it smelled like mildew. If you're a mom-to-be or a new mommy smack dab in the middle of this stage, hang in there. You're not alone, sister. Nothing I can do or say can make everything go perfectly smooth through this process, but I do have a few tips on making life a little bit easier.
Here's what I couldn't live without:
Belly Band
In the first few weeks of my c-section recovery, it sort of felt like at any moment all my guts were going to fall out. Gruesome, I know. It took me a week to order a belly band and I'm so glad I did. It helped hold everything in and make breathing, sneezing, and bending much more comfortable. I suspect one of these would feel nice if your birth was vaginal too since pregnancy stretches out our midsections so much. Let's all take a moment and marvel at the fact that they eventually go back to normal (albeit a new normal). Amazing.
http://www.amazon.com/UpSpring-Baby-Shrinkx-Postpartum-Xlarge/dp/B00KB49UG0?ie=UTF8&psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o04_s00
Shakeology
This was a game changer for me! I started drinking it the last month of my pregnancy because I was curious and my mama-in-law had an extra box she was sweet enough to give me. I immediately loved the taste and the fact that it kept me full until my next meal. I drank it everyday for awhile, and then signed up for my auto-shipment soon after. I now drink the vegan shakes because of my baby's possible dairy sensitivity. It's an easy and nourishing breakfast I can drink with one hand while breastfeeding. I look forward to it in my mornings like people who drink coffee look forward to that early morning cup.
I have some free sample packets for those of you interested in trying it. Just e-mail me at livewholewithmegan@gmail.com
Earth Mama Angel Baby Nipple Cream
If you're a mom who chose to breastfeed, you know the nitty gritty of the first couple weeks of nursing. The pain, the blood, the cracks, and the dryness. If you're a mom of a baby who had a tongue tie or other nursing problems (like myself) you know those first couple of weeks can turn into a month or more. This cream helpes ease the soreness and occasionally prevented tears. It also works great with my breast pump.
http://www.amazon.com/Earth-Mama-Angel-Baby-Natural/dp/B000JVCBBG?ie=UTF8&psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o05_s00
Audible
Okay, I know this really isn't something specific for postpartum issues, but I find it so helpful. I love to read, but honestly don't have the time for it like I used to. The first month of breastfeeding was not only difficult and painful, but I also practically nursed non-stop. I found myself glued to the recliner with my sweet babe glued to me. That's where the audiobooks come in. While my hands were tied with the baby, I could push play and listen to a good book. A funny book. An encouraging book. A parenting book. Now that my little boy has started taking a few naps in the day, I can listen to my audiobooks while I clean the kitchen, pay bills, or even blog. Mom life is all about multi-tasking.
http://www.audible.com/
Himalayan Salt Lamp
I bought one of these for my side of the bed so that I could do nighttime feedings in bed without having a bright light disturb my husband. It works perfectly for that, but it has even more benefits that I didn't expect. First off, I learned that it purifies the air. Who couldn't use a little more pure air? Also, my baby LOVES looking at it. It seems to have a calming effect on him. When he's upset and I've tried everything, I'll run to the bedroom, turn it on, and face him in a direction he can see it.
http://www.amazon.com/WBM-Himalayan-Natural-Crystal-Control-8/dp/B001892AX2/ref=sr_1_4?s=furniture&ie=UTF8&qid=1463542993&sr=1-4&keywords=himalayan+salt+lamp
So there you go. It's not your traditional list, but I'm not your traditional gal. What helped you out postpartum?
No comments:
Post a Comment