This checklist for what you need to soothe your body after giving birth is part of essential postpartum care. Bringing a baby into the world is beautiful — but postpartum recovery can be surprisingly uncomfortable to say the least. Let’s face it, you just gave birth to a human the size of a watermelon or what felt like a tire. Whether you had a vaginal birth or a C-section, your body deserves gentle care and real comfort.
This guide covers the most effective after-birth soothing remedies that help reduce soreness, swelling, and irritation, while promoting healing and calm during the postpartum weeks. While many items on the list of must haves for after birth soothing relate to a vaginal birth, there are take aways that can be picked and chosen from to match better with your needs.
You can prep to have these things in your birth bag or after delivery, and consider using them as needed and tapering off as you feel better healing.
Like most things pregnancy and nursing, speak with your health care provider to assure you are okay to use certain products or have any concerns.
- Dermoplast Spray
- Tucks Pads (Witch Hazel Pads)
- Witch Hazel Spray
- Peri Bottle
- Sitz Bath Seat
- Hemorrhoid and Fissure Ointment
- Popsicle Pads (Padsicles)
- Hospital-Grade Pads
- Mesh Underwear or Disposable Briefs
- Belly Wrap or Postpartum Support Band
- Easy Slip-On Pants
- Nursing Tank Tops (pumping and skin to skin friendly)
- Cold Packs or Ice Pads
- ✅ Downloadable Postpartum Recovery Checklist
Dermoplast Spray
Dermoplast spray is a hospital-trusted pain relief spray brand formulated specifically for postpartum recovery. I recommend this hospital grade brand from personal experience and would stick to hospital trusted, high-quality products.
Why It Helps
- Instantly numbs soreness, stinging, and burning sensations.
- Provides relief for stitches, tears, and swelling.
- Contains antibacterial ingredients to help prevent infection.
- Ideal for perineal and incision area use.
How to Use
- Spray directly on the perineal area after using the bathroom or changing pads.
- Allow to air dry for best comfort.
- Use throughout the day as needed.
Tucks Pads (Witch Hazel Pads)
Tucks pads medicated cooling pads are pre-soaked with witch hazel, a natural anti-inflammatory and cooling agent that’s gentle and effective. Girl, this is your hemorrhoids relief helper and all things “not feeling good” in the sensitive area.
Why It Helps
- Calms itching, swelling, and irritation.
- Soothes discomfort from hemorrhoids and stitches.
- Helps speed up tissue recovery.
How to Use
- Layer one or more Tucks pads on top of your sanitary pad.
- Replace after each bathroom trip or when dry.
- Keep in the fridge for extra cooling relief.
Witch Hazel Spray
A light mist of witch hazel spray delivers gentle cooling and healing between pad changes.
Why It Helps
- Reduces inflammation and pain.
- Refreshes and cleanses without harsh ingredients.
- Aids in healing tender tissues.
How to Use
- Spray after every bathroom trip.
- Allow to air dry before applying pads.
- Store in the refrigerator for additional cooling.
Peri Bottle
A peri bottle postpartum care essential replaces toilet paper when wiping feels impossible postpartum. This also is a must-have for sanitary cleaning, soothing, and healing.
Why It Helps
- Gently cleans without irritation.
- Reduces stinging after urination.
- Keeps the perineal area clean to prevent infection.
How to Use
- Fill with lukewarm (not hot) water before each use.
- Rinse gently while using the restroom.
- Pat or air dry before reapplying sprays or pads.
- You can add a little witch hazel to the warm water for extra soothing.
- Spray from inches away and never inside or too close to your body.
Sitz Bath Seat
A sitz bath seat for the toilet is one of the most soothing rituals for postpartum healing.
Personally, I absoulutely needed and was so thankful for this postpartum care item. It was relief! I would not go without it.
Why It Helps
- Promotes blood circulation for faster recovery.
- Eases swelling and soreness.
- Cleanses delicate areas naturally.
How to Use
- Fill a sitz bath basin or shallow tub with warm water.
- Add epsom or sitz salts or tea bags with calendula, chamomile, or lavender (sparingly).
- Soak for 15–20 minutes once or twice daily.
- Pat dry afterward and apply a soothing spray or Tucks pad.
- Ask your doctor this is approved for you.
Hemorrhoid and Fissure Ointment
Hemorrhoids and tiny fissures (small skin tears) are incredibly common after giving birth — especially if you pushed for a long time. The right ointments can bring major relief, reduce inflammation, and help you heal faster.
Some doctors will suggest stool softeners for a short period of time to help decrease pain during bowel movements after birth.
A good tip is to stay hydrated and eat fiber (like a prune or two) to aid recovery after childbirth.
Believe me, you’re going to want to know about this postpartum care relief essential…if you are in this very common situation.
Why it’s soothing:
- Hemorrhoids Fissure Ointment provides instant relief from burning, itching, and soreness.
- Helps shrink swollen tissue and reduce discomfort.
- Keeps the area moisturized and protected from irritation.
- Encourages healing of small tears or skin fissures caused by strain.
How to use:
- Clean the area gently with a peri bottle or warm water.
- Pat dry — do not wipe.
- Apply a small amount of ointment directly to the affected area 2–3 times a day or as needed.
- Look for products labeled safe for postpartum and breastfeeding, such as Perineal Balm for Moms, Preparation H Cooling Gel, or Doctor-recommended fissure creams.
Pro tip: Store your ointment in the fridge for a cooling sensation that brings even more relief.
Popsicle Pads (Padsicles)
Padsicles provide cooling, numbing relief for postpartum pain and swelling. Just add some water to your maxi pads and freeze. These are so easy to make so it’s worth having some for after birth recovery.
Why It Helps
- Cools and calms soreness.
- Reduces inflammation and promotes healing.
- Simple and inexpensive to make at home.
How to Use
- Drizzle water, or a combo of water, aloe vera, and witch hazel on a large pad.
- Wrap and freeze for a few hours.
- Apply for 15–20 minutes as needed.
- Always place a thin layer of fabric or underwear between the frozen pad and skin.
Hospital-Grade Pads
Hospital pads are thick, absorbent, and designed for heavy postpartum bleeding. It’s a must to avoid leaks on sheets and clothes, and overall…it part of the journey. Then you can switch to ultra maxis when you are ready.
Why It Helps
- Offers excellent absorbency and protection.
- Prevents leaks while remaining soft and flexible.
- Perfect for pairing with sprays and cooling pads.
How to Use
- Layer with Tucks pads or Dermoplast spray for comfort.
- Change every few hours or as needed.
- Ask for extras before leaving the hospital.
Mesh Underwear or Disposable Briefs
Postpartum disposable mesh underwear is soft, breathable, and perfect for postpartum recovery. This is what nobody tells you, you’re going to want to just throw that after-birth underwear away so grab as many disposable undies (they look like those fruit mesh holders) as you can.
Why It Helps
- Holds pads in place without irritation.
- Gentle on sensitive areas.
- Disposable for easy cleanup.
How to Use
- Wear over your pad for secure comfort.
- Replace daily or as needed.
Belly Wrap or Postpartum Support Band
A light belly wrap supports your core and helps you feel more stable after delivery.
Why It Helps
- Provides gentle compression to reduce swelling.
- Supports muscles and posture.
- Aids mobility during the early recovery stage.
How to Use
- Begin wearing a few days postpartum (consult your provider).
- Adjust for snug but comfortable fit.
- Wear over clothing to prevent skin irritation.
Easy Slip-On Pants
Loose, comfortable clothing is essential for rest and healing. You won’t be comfy putting on those thick elastic sweatpants or anything that requires lifting your leg too high. Definitely no tight pants. No tight waistbands. You need loose and flowy for maximum ease.
Why It Helps
- Reduces friction and irritation.
- Provides easy access for nursing and changing pads.
- Accommodates belly wraps comfortably.
How to Use
- Choose cotton or bamboo fabrics.
- Avoid tight waistbands.
- Keep several pairs ready for rotation.
Nursing Tank Tops (pumping and skin to skin friendly)
Nursing tanks and nursing t-shirts simplify feeding and offer gentle support postpartum.
Why It Helps
- Provides convenient access for breastfeeding.
- Pumping and skin to skin is easier.
- Gentle on sensitive skin and chest area.
- Keeps you comfortably covered while lounging or sleeping.
- Discreet for when visitors arrive and you are nursing.
How to Use
- Pair with slip-on pants for comfort and practicality.
- Choose tanks and nursing tee shirts with flowy fits, easy openings, and soft cotton fabric. These are handy for nursing in public, lounging, and doing all the things moms do.
Cold Packs or Ice Pads
Cold therapy is a key part of soothing postpartum discomfort.
Why It Helps
- Reduces inflammation and pain.
- Helps numb soreness after sitting or walking.
- Promotes comfort and faster healing.
How to Use
- Apply for 15–20 minutes as needed.
- Alternate with warm sitz baths for best results.
- Always place a thin fabric layer between the ice pack and skin.
✅ Downloadable Postpartum Recovery Checklist
Keep this handy as you prepare your hospital bag or recovery station.
Your postpartum recovery is a time for patience, care, and comfort. From witch hazel sprays to belly wraps, these after-birth soothing remedies can make a huge difference in how you heal and feel.
Every mom’s journey is unique — rest when you can, stay hydrated, and be kind to yourself as your body recovers.
NOTE: If you go home and begin to experience off symptoms please call your doctor or 911 in an emergency. Understanding some potential possible times when you need to call a doctor or call 911 after pregnancy during postpartum recovery is important and do not ignore signs.
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