Postpartum Essentials: A Simple Checklist
After birth checklist
Quick answer
Your main postpartum essentials are maternity pads and soft, high-waisted underwear that holds a pad. Add a peri bottle to rinse with warm water when you pee. Keep water, easy snacks and nursing bras close by. Use pain relief only if your doctor says it is OK. Period underwear is handy later, when bleeding gets lighter.
Kischt Period Underwear 3-Pack, The Everyday Trio, $59.95 ($19.98 a pair). 30-day returns. Free shipping over $50.
- Maternity pads for the heavy first weeks.
- Soft, high-waisted underwear that holds a pad.
- A peri bottle to rinse with warm water.
- Period underwear for the lighter weeks.
Postpartum essentials checklist
- Maternity pads, for the heavy early bleeding
- Soft, high-waisted underwear that holds a pad
- A peri bottle, to rinse with warm water when you pee
- Ice packs, if your doctor or midwife suggests them
- Nursing bras, if you plan to breastfeed
- A big water bottle and easy snacks
- Loose, comfy clothes
- Pain relief your doctor says is OK
- Period underwear, for the lighter weeks
Get ready before the birth
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Stock up on pads
Get maternity pads before your due date. Keep some by your bed and in the bathroom.
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Set up a rest spot
Put water, snacks, pads and your peri bottle where you rest.
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Pack your bag
Pack pads, soft high-waisted underwear and a nursing bra in your bag.
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Plan for later weeks
Have period underwear washed and ready for when bleeding slows.
What to skip at first
- Tampons and cups, for at least six weeks
- Tight waistbands that rub a C-section scar
- Baths and swimming after a C-section, until your doctor says OK
Pads first, period underwear later
Bleeding after birth is heavy at first. It slows over 4 to 6 weeks. As it gets lighter, period underwear can back up a pad. Ask your doctor before you use it without a pad.
Kischt has three absorbent layers. Its high waist covers the lower tummy. It should feel secure without digging in.
Had a C-section? Ask your doctor what to wear, and pick a waistband that does not rub your scar.
Add period underwear to your list
Kischt Period Underwear 3-Pack, The Everyday Trio · $59.95 ($19.98 a pair)
Free shipping on orders over $50. You have 30 days to request a refund.
Shop the 3-packQuestions? Email hello@kischt.com.
Common questions
What do I need for postpartum recovery?
Start with maternity pads and soft, high-waisted underwear. Add a peri bottle, water and snacks. Use pain relief only if your doctor says it is OK.
What is a peri bottle?
It is a small squeeze bottle. You use it to rinse with warm water when you pee.
When can I use period underwear after birth?
In the lighter weeks, as a backup under a pad. Ask your doctor before you use it without a pad.
Can I use tampons after birth?
No. Don't use tampons or cups for at least six weeks. Use pads instead.
How many pairs of underwear do I need after birth?
Have enough to change often while you heal. A 3-pack of period underwear is an easy start for the lighter weeks.
More guides
- After birthPostpartum Underwear: What to Wear After Birth
- Postpartum guideHow Long Does Postpartum Bleeding Last?
- Postpartum comparePostpartum Pads vs Period Underwear: What to Use
See all guides: Period Underwear Guide: Every Question Answered
Sources
Updated by the Kischt team.
This page is general information, not medical advice. See a doctor if you are worried about your health.
Returns: you have 30 days after you get your order to request a refund. Details are in the return policy.