Layette for a new mother - accessories for nursing mothers and women after childbirth

The period of the postpartum period and lactation is a time when a woman should take special care of herself. Caring for a newborn baby is a priority, but we must not forget that the mother is no less important, and her body, subject to enormous changes and stress, also requires proper care. What hygiene items are useful in the postpartum period? How can you make breastfeeding easier on yourself? How to take care of the breast and during lactation? How to take care of your skin after childbirth?

Dr. n. farm. Maria Kaspshak

Hygiene in the postpartum period - postpartum pads 

The postpartum period is the period of a few weeks after childbirth when a woman's body returns to balance after pregnancy and childbirth. The uterus heals, contracts and clears (the so-called lochia, i.e., postpartum stools, are excreted). It is very important then to maintain proper hygiene of the intimate parts so that there is no overgrowth of bacteria and infections. If there was a caesarean section, the postoperative wound should also be kept clean. In the postpartum period, only pads should be used, preferably special postpartum pads. Also sold under the name postpartum pads, they are larger and more absorbent than standard pads, which is especially important in the first days after childbirth. You can choose from a variety of models of postpartum pads: plain, plain, with cellulose filler (more environmentally friendly), as well as profiled, with a strip of adhesive fastening to underwear, with a gel-forming (absorbent) filler that binds moisture. Their price is not high - it rarely exceeds 1 zloty per piece. Cartridges should be replaced regularly and used ones should be discarded.

Hygienic postpartum panties. 

Special postpartum, disposable or reusable underwear supports sleepers well. Disposable maternity panties are made of non-woven material (fleece) and must be discarded after use. They are usually packed in several pieces per pack, and their price is PLN 1-2 per piece. This is a convenient and hygienic solution, especially in a hospital environment. Reusable postpartum mesh panties are also very comfortable. They are used to support sanitary napkins or pads, they are soft, delicate and very airy, much more flexible than traditional underwear. They are inexpensive - the cost of one pair is a few zlotys. They can be washed, dry quickly and are very practical after a caesarean section - they provide ventilation for the skin of the abdomen and do not put pressure on the wound if you choose the right size. When in doubt, it is better to choose a size a little larger than too small.

Hygiene and breast protection during lactation - nursing pads 

To keep clean and comfortable during lactation, it is worth getting breast pads that will absorb excess food and prevent your bra and clothes from getting wet. Such inserts are placed inside the bra. There are various breast pads available on the market – reusable and disposable. Reusables are usually made from soft cotton. They can be washed and reused, making them an environmentally friendly and economical solution. For women who prefer disposable products, there is a large selection of insoles: from normalfilled with cellulose super absorbent, thin liners filled with gel-forming superabsorbent. It is worth knowing that breast pads are not only white, but also elegant for demanding women. black inserts Or beige.

Breast shells 

For those mothers who prefer reusable products, the so-called milk shells Made of soft safe silicone. They perform a dual role: they collect excess food, protect underwear from dirt, protect irritated nipples from further irritation, and promote healing. The breast shell usually consists of two parts: a ring with a hole in the center that fits directly to the skin and surrounds the nipple without covering it. The second part is a convex "cap" that is put on the ring so that it fits snugly. Sometimes these parts are permanently connected. Between the parts of the shell there is a free space where spilled food accumulates, and the convex cover does not touch the body, which protects the nipple from abrasions. The light pressure that the lactation sheath in the bra exerts on the breast relieves swelling. The silicone breast pads are easy to clean and very durable.

Breast pads for feeding 

Another useful accessory for nursing mothers are silicone pads for the breasts, and actually for the nipples. They are cap-shaped and have small holes at the top to drain the milk. Pads are used to make breastfeeding easier when the nipples are cracked or irritated, or when the baby is unable to latch on properly. This problem can occur especially with the first child, and also when a woman has flat or inverted nipples. In order for the shells to perform their role correctly, the correct size must be chosen, and it is best to consult with a specialist: a lactation consultant or an experienced midwife.

Nipple Correctors 

A baby's latch on due to flat or inverted nipples can usually be resolved without resorting to invasive methods. Breast pumps that “pull out” the nipples with a vacuum, or small and convenient nipple correctors, will come in handy. Such a concealer or "nipple" (the name comes from the product niplet Philips Avent brands) also work by applying negative pressure, i.e. suction force. Applied before feeding, they help to shape the nipple so that it is easier for your baby to latch onto. Sometimes it is necessary to use such a concealer for a longer time, but this should not be done during pregnancy. This can stimulate the secretion of oxytocin, which in turn can cause unwanted pre-term uterine contractions. Your doctor or midwife will provide you with detailed information.

Creams and ointments for breast care 

During breastfeeding, the delicate skin of the nipples requires special care. Appropriate preparations should soothe irritations, promote skin regeneration and be harmless to the child. Most breast care ointments such as brands Lansinoh or Medela PureLan including pure lanolin - sebaceous secretions obtained from sheep's wool. The lanolin used in breast care products is of the highest quality and is carefully refined. It is very oily and protects the skin well, and is harmless to the baby. It can also be used to treat dry lips (instead of lip balm or protective lipstick) and other sensitive areas. Another substance used for the so-called hardening and care of the nipples is glucose in a fairly high concentration, contained, for example, in ointments Malta. It is sugar, which means it is a completely natural and non-toxic product.

Care of the skin of the abdomen and the whole body during pregnancy and after childbirth 

Pregnancy and childbirth is a difficult time for the whole body, including the skin. The skin of the abdomen is especially stretched, stretch marks often appear, and after childbirth, the stomach is flabby and wrinkled. Don't be ashamed of it - it's a great sign that your body was a haven for your child, and that these marks in no way detract from your beauty. However, for your own comfort and health, it is worth taking care of tired skin in order to restore its elasticity and support regeneration. To do this, cosmetics should be selected without substances that, if penetrated through the skin, can have a harmful effect on an infant. Many cosmetic companies offer special lines of cosmetics for pregnant women and new mothers. You can also use delicate cosmetics and baby oils or natural oils for example. almond oil.

Postpartum and breastfeeding underwear 

To facilitate the postpartum and lactation period, it is worth getting special underwear for nursing women. Bras and nightgowns are sewn in such a way that they do not need to be removed for each feeding, it is enough to unbutton and fold the corresponding part. They are also usually made from soft, breathable cotton that does not irritate the skin and allows it to breathe. Women who have given birth by caesarean section or have excessive abdominal distension may consider using postpartum belts or abdominal corsets. However, always consult your doctor before using such products, as there may be contraindications to their use. For problems with overstretching of the abdominal muscles or the risk of a hernia, it is also worth visiting an experienced physiotherapist. Proper physical therapy and rehabilitation after childbirth can provide invaluable benefits and prevent more serious health problems in the future.

Even more valuable tips for parents can be found on AvtoTachki Pasje!

: