New Mom Products- day 79

To be honest, I feel like I needed more things after giving birth than Henry did! Henry needed fresh diapers and my boobs lol that's about it. I needed EVERYTHING. I exclusively breastfed and had a C-section, so my list of mom needs might be different than someone who is using formula or had a vaginal delivery! Take what you will. 

Breastfeeding:

For me, the best piece of advice on breastfeeding success is- you have to give zero fs about who sees your boobs. Your father-in-law is over, sorry man, but I'm pulling out my boob whether you like it of not lol. My philosophy is, if it makes them uncomfortable, they can leave or look away. I breastfed everywhere- the back of the car, a wedding reception, an accounting office, the botanical gardens in Fort Worth... if my baby was there, my boobs were out! You can try and cover up, but you'll get so hot, your baby will swat the blanket down, you'll accidentally flash people anyway. Just let the boobie live. 

Nursing Bras - I recommend buying cheap- you will 100% throw all these away within 9-12 months. Now matter now diligent you are with your breast pads and washing, they will end up with milk on them constantly. The bras are only for a season of your life, no need to spend much on them. I was a 36 C before getting pregnant, but my boobs got HUGE, I think I was a 36 DD, so buy larger than you think.

Nursing Tanks & Camis- Literally Amazon all this stuff. 

Hands free pumping bra & tanks- I only pumped at work, so I only had a few of these, they also make some that are more like a bando that you can slip on instead of wearing all day. 

Robes & Jammies- the first six weeks of newborn life, stay in jammies and robes. Even when people come over, throw a robe on and you'll be perfect!

Boob Ease. -Nipple cream... Ohhhh the sweet relief!! 

Breast Pads- buy MILLIONS, like way more than you think you need. I think they make some washable/reusable ones, and if you're a green gal, go for it. But to be honest it's kinda gross so I'm a fan of throwing them away. 

C-Section Recovery:

I was very fortunate to have a great recovery from surgery. The second day after surgery was the worst, but every day after, I continued to feel better and better. Always listen to you doctor's orders, take things slow, and don't ever be afraid to call if you don't feel well. I took my pain medication like clockwork, because it is abdominal surgery, and staying ahead of the pain is absolutely necessary. The hospital gave me an ice pack that I used often as well. Walking, showering, keeping your incision dry, and staying hydrated are all just as important as taking your meds! 

Always Discreet Underwear- I found these soooo much better than granny panties with pads. They are more comfortable and absorbent, and honestly don't feel *that* different from regular underwear.

Loose sweatpants- I didn't want anything touching my incision, so I would have my adult diapers up to my bellybutton and my sweat pants pulled up right under my boobs. 

Belly Band- I wore this a few times because I felt like it gave me some core stability, but I wanted to build that strength back organically so stopped using it after the 2nd week.