For first-time moms it’s pretty confusing what to prep on hand before baby and even more confusing how to heal after the baby arrives. I know I was completely lost and tried EVERY healing trick in the book. 

   Today’s blog is all about vaginal healing.

(I’ll do a separate blog post for my C-section mamas)

   As someone who personally endured over 200 stiches after delivery PLUS an additional vaginal reconstructive surgery, I think I have a pretty strong first-hand knowledge on what helps sooth the lady bits.

Disclaimer: This is not medical advice. Always speak to a health care professional before taking any medication. 

What should I have on hand for DAY 1?

-       Sitz Bath

-       Vaginal Ice Pack - personally I preferred this one linked over the Frida Mom brand. I found that Frida ice packs were way too thick and added too much pressure to my perineum, which is where most of my tearing was.

-       Stool Softeners

-       Pain Medicine: Tylenol & Ibuprofen (advil is the name brand of Ibuprofen) -> you can alternate every 4 hours for pain

-       Witch Hazel: Tucks cooling pads

-       Squatty Potty -> stepping stool works too (goal is to get your knees to about 90 degree angle)

-       Comfortable underwear & diapers S/M, L, XL

-       Pads

-       Peri Bottle -> They also have bottles like this with an angle, but I didn't like them as much.

-       Frida mom Perineal liners these liners are heavenly mixed with this Perineal Spray

-       Dermoplast - take it or leave it, not my favorite 

**If you love Frida mom products, they also have this great postpartum bundle kit. I have the kit, but I didn't love everything in that. That's why I wrote this blog post to give you more options!

What should I use if I have extensive tearing? Degree 2,3,4

….everything above PLUS….

-       Vitamin E cream or suppositories -> Vitamin E is a game changer for faster vaginal healing

-       Sitz Bath Tea or Pink Stork Soak

-       Pillow from home (NOT a donut pillow) Companies will try to market special postpartum donut pillows, but don't fall for it. It will make your stitches pull and SLOW down your healing. Pro tip from an OBYGN!

-       Lidocaine cream - if you are in a lot of pain ask for a prescription

Friendly reminders for bathroom care:

1.) Use a peri bottle, don’t wipe stitches with toilet paper

2.) ALWAYS use a Squatty Potty

3.) No bearing down or straining to poop. If you are struggling you can gently apply pressure to your perineum with toilet paper to support your stitches. 

BONUS tips:

* When in doubt air it out. The more you can lay around without underwear on the faster you will heal. 

* Sitz Bath 2-3x per day for 15 to 20min

* Never use a donut pillow with stitches

   If you have additional questions about healing, head back to my home page & click CONTACT ME. I reply to e-mails within 24 hours and I would love to answer any questions you may have about your healing journey. 

   Are you ready to learn more about postpartum recovery and feel confident when baby arrives?

click here to purchase Postpartum Reconnect Online Course now. This course will get you from hospital -> home -> 6-week checkup -> back to pre-baby fitness level PLUS 6 months of training with a PCES.