Welcoming a new baby is such an exciting time. The tiny fingers and toes, the baby’s soft skin and the intoxicating smell they have—it’s enough to make you want to do it all over again. But while you’ve had nine months to prepare for the birth of your little one, are you ready for the challenges the postpartum period brings? The first 30 days will no doubt be overwhelming—your body is healing, and you might experience a rollercoaster of emotions. Now add that to the mix of adjusting to life with a newborn, and it can feel like a lot to handle.
While there’s no magic formula to make it all easy, having the right essentials can go a long way in helping you feel more comfortable, supported, and prepared. Read on to find out what you’ll need to make your first month after birth just a little easier.
Nursing and Maternity Bras
First on the list, look for comfortable and supportive nursing or maternity bras. Whether you’re breastfeeding or not, your breasts will go through changes after giving birth. Expect size fluctuations and tenderness, especially in the early days of your breastfeeding journey. So, opt for soft, wire-free options with easy access for nursing and extra stretch to accommodate size changes.
Check out:
Perk by Kate
Their range of maternity and nursing bras aren’t just comfortable; they’re stylish and oh-so-gorgeous! From soft bras to lacy bralettes, they’ve got them all.
Shop their maternity and nursing range with prices starting from $39 on their official website.
Lovemère
Lovemère gives you the support you need during and after pregnancy. It’s cleverly designed to stretch as your breast size fluctuates and grow along with your body through each exciting stage.
Shop their range with prices starting from $24 on their official website.
Nipple Cream
If it is your first time breastfeeding, you might be surprised how tough breastfeeding can be on your nipples, especially in the early weeks. To prevent and soothe cracked or sore nipples, keep a lanolin-based or all-natural nipple cream handy. Be sure to apply it after each feeding, and you’ll soon feel a lot more comfortable.
Check out:
Medela Purelan™
This 100% natural lanolin cream provides fast relief for sore nipples and dry skin. With no additives, preservatives or fragrance added, it is safe for your baby, and there is no need to remove it before breastfeeding.
Shop Medela’s Purelan™ Lanolin Cream on their official website, Pupsik, Mothercare, Motherswork and leading baby retailers. Available in 7g and 37g, prices start from $16.90.
Lansinoh HPA Lanolin
Known as the bestselling nipple cream for breastfeeding mums in the UK, this BPA and BPS-free cream soothes and protects sore nipples and cracked skin. It is made of pure medical grade lanolin and is paraben-free.
Shop Lansinoh HPA Lanolin at leading pharmacies, supermarkets and baby retailers.
Postpartum Recovery Kit
After giving birth, give your body the much-needed time it deserves to heal. To make that a little easier, a recovery kit might be just what you need. Include items like perineal cooling pads, sitz baths, witch hazel, and disposable underwear. These will help ease discomfort and promote healing after a vaginal birth. If you’ve had a C-section, get yourself a gentle belly binder for extra support, and you might even want to try silicone scar sheets to promote the healing of your scar.
Check out:
Bare Mum Herbal Postpartum Pads
Formulated in Australia by Bare Mum, these “pre-made padsicles” are are highly absorbant pads that provide healing and relief. Made with a 100% certified organic cotton cover and infused with an all-natural herbal blend.
Shop Bare Mum Herbal Postpartum Pads at Fourth Wellness for $16.90.
Earth Mama Organic Herbal Sitz Bath
Containing a unique blend of organic herbs, Earth Mama Organic Herbal Sitz Bath provides soothing relief for postpartum care.
Shop Earth Mama Organic Herbal Sitz Bath at Pupsik, Agape Babies and other leading baby retailers for $26.90
Postpartum Belly Wrap
Be sure to include a postpartum belly wrap on your list of items needed. It offers gentle abdominal support, helping your body recover from pregnancy. It can relieve back pain and help you feel more comfortable as your muscles heal. Just be sure to consult with your healthcare provider before using one, especially if you have had a C-section.
Check out:
Belly Bandit Original Belly Wrap
Known as the OG of belly wraps, the Belly Bandit’s unique and powerful stretch helps you shrink down to your pre-pregnancy size, and strengthen core muscles weakened during pregnancy.
Shop Belly Bandit Original Belly Wrap online at Shopee, Baby Central and other leading baby retailers.
Upspring Skrinkx Belly Postpartum Slimming Wrap
Made of latex-free breathable mesh fabric, this belly wrap supports core abdominal muscles and helps uterus return to original size sooner. Its triple compression customises fit to help speed up weight loss.
Shop Upspring Skrinkx Belly Postpartum Slimming Wrap at Mothercare and online at Shopee and iHerb.
Water Bottle and Healthy Snacks
In Singapore, with the convenience of confinement food being sent right to our doorsteps, we know just how important it is to be hydrated and well-nourished after giving birth. And this is even more so if you’re breastfeeding. Keeping a large, easy-to-use water bottle nearby ensures you’re getting enough fluids. If your diet allows, it’ll be a good idea to stock up on healthy snacks like granola bars, nuts, and fruit, which can give you a quick energy boost during those long days (and nights) with your baby.
Check out:
Owala
Owala’s best-selling stainless steel bottles and tumblers are more than just hydration vessels. They allow you to let your personal style shine through with their sleek silhouettes trendy colours. Whether you’re spending the day at home or heading out for yet another adventure with your little one in tow, Owala’s leak-proof designs will give you the peace of mind you need.
Shop Owala at Takashimaya and online at their official website and Amazon SG.
Boxgreen
Snacking has never been better with Boxgreen’s healthy range of nuts, crunchies and chocolate bites. Build your own box and have it delivered to you weekly or just get what you want when you want.
Shop Boxgreen at the official website.
Comfortable Loungewear and Postpartum Underwear
When shopping for your postpartum wardrobe, loose, breathable loungewear will be your best friend, especially in Singapore’s hot and humid climate. Be sure to opt for soft fabrics that don’t press on sensitive areas, either. Postpartum underwear, either disposable or designed for extra support, will provide added comfort as your body heals.
Check out:
H&M MAMA Nursing Pyjamas
Designed with a double layer to allow easier nursing access. Plus, the soft, ribbed jersey material and short sleeves will keep you comfortable.
Shop this nursing pyjamas from H&M for $39.95.
Frida Mum Disposable Underwear
Available in a variety of designs, Frida Mum Disposable Postpartum Underwear is made of microfiber and spandex and is soft, seamless and breathable. It stretches when you need it to while keeping pads in place without compromising comfort.
Shop this Frida Mum Disposable Underwear at Amazon SG.
Sleep Support: Pillows and Eye Mask
You’ve likely heard the advice to sleep while your baby sleeps. But sometimes, that’s easier said than done. However, quality rest is essential for recovery and, of course, for maintaining the energy you need to care for your mini-me. Invest in supportive pillows that can also make breastfeeding or bottle-feeding more comfortable. Plus, an eye mask can help block out light during daytime naps and nighttime rest.
Check it out:
Doomoo Buddy
This organic cotton large 3-in-1 multi-functional pillow is perfect for those times when you need a little support. Taking you from pregnancy to nursing, it can even be used for a cushion for babies or a pouf for toddlers.
Shop Doomoo Buddy at Motherswork or online at Hatchery Cribs and Little Baby. Prices start from $145.90.
Theraline The Original Maternity and Nursing Pillow
A popular choice among expecting mums, this pillow will continue to support mums after pregnancy. It also allows for more relaxed breastfeeding by providing amazing back support, size and flexibility.
Shop this pillow at Takashimaya, Mothercare, Motherswork, Hipvan and online at Bloom Connect.
Emotional Support and Patience
Lastly, don’t be too hard on yourself. The postpartum period is not just about physical healing but also emotional adjustment. Surrounding yourself with a support system will make a huge difference. Call on family, friends, or even an online group. The emotions that a new mum—or even a second-time mum—experiences can be unpredictable, so it’s crucial to have a safe space to talk about how you’re feeling.
Check it out:
Breastfeeding Mothers’ Support Group (BMSG)
BMSG provides counselling hotlines, groups and meetups for breastfeeding support as well as education for pregnant and breastfeeding mothers and their families.
Mindful Mums
Mindful Mums helps mothers to better cope with the psychological and emotional challenges of motherhood. They offer free support groups for anyone to attend as well as workshops that touch on topics such as mindfulness, self-compassion, connection, and dealing with difficult emotions.
With these essentials, you’ll feel more prepared to face the challenges of the first month after birth. Remember, recovery takes time, as does adjusting to your new role as a mum. And most importantly, it’s more than okay to ask for help. Your well-being matters just as much as your baby’s, so take care of yourself during this special and exciting time.
