Star & Sky Doula services

Birth + Postpartum Support


Nesting: What You’ll Need for Birth and Postpartum

Are you wondering if you’ve gathered all you need for baby’s arrival? There are a lot of products out there that are heavily marketed, but perhaps you haven’t heard about some of the more obscure must haves on my list.

Take a look and see if there’s anything you’d like to add to your own registry! If you like my recommendations but are unable to get them in time, don’t worry. I keep these items on hand for my clients to use or try out.

  1. CUB Inflatable Birth Support
    • The Comfortable Upright Birth support stool is a favorite of mine. While you are able to sit on it, I find it very useful for leaning. It is so helpful to have something stable to lean on during contractions while someone provides counter pressure on your hips or back, for example.
  2. Peanut Ball
    • I was blessed to try this at the hospital during my second birth. Your birthing center may provide them, so make sure to ask! There are varying sizes of peanut balls used for different positions, in bed and on the ground.
  3. Upside Down Peri Bottle
    • Peri bottles are used to spray warm water on your sensitive areas while peeling after childbirth. This can provide much comfort or relief, especially if you are a first time mom or if you experienced tearing.
  4. Adult Diapers
    • If you give birth in the hospital, they’ll likely provide you with plenty of extra long pads that you can take home with you, but these are usually pretty uncomfortable. I personally find that adult diapers are much more comfortable and easier to manage after birth. You might try these postpartum underwear, for example.
  5. My Brest Friend: Nursing Pillow
    • This nursing pillow is so comfortable. I love that it has a sturdy, adjustable strap that goes all the way around you to secure the pillow in place. It is easy to use, stays put much better than a typical nursing pillow, and fits larger body sizes quite nicely.
  6. Cloth Baby Wrap Carrier
    • There are many reasons to use a cloth wrap carrier. Firstly, it is safe to use for newborns! It is so nice to be able to place baby in the wrap so you can have your hands free around the house. This allows baby to sleep comfortably while you prepare a meal for yourself, for example! While many brands are available, Boba one favorite.
  7. Haakaa Breast Pump
    • Some women use Haakaa pumps daily to express without needing an electric pump. I personally find them to be effective when clearing a plugged duct by combining Epsom Salt and warm water in the Haakaa to draw out the clog.
  8. Lactation Cookies/Snacks
    • Certain snacks and ingredients are great for nourishing a healthy milk supply, but the most important thing is that you have yummy, nutritious snacks on hand to eat whenever you need a bite. My cousin brought me Milkmakers Cookie Bites after each of my births and I loved them both times. Trail mix is also great to keep around.
  9. Happy Ducts
    • This tincture seems to be very helpful to use when trying to clear a clogged duct. It helps fend off mastitis and I personally don’t mind the taste (though I’m sure the flavor isn’t for everyone).
  10. Waterproof Bed Sheet
    • If you plan to give birth at home, a waterproof bedsheet is needed to protect your mattress. It is also great to have as protection from postpartum leaks and baby/toddler pee! I bought this one from Temu and it continues to work perfectly for our family.

Let me know if you have any questions about the items I’ve shared in this list! In addition the above items, I also have birthing pool supplies that are available for rent if anyone would like to procure a pool for one time use.

Thanks for reading!

With love,

Destany

Star & Sky Doula

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