What to Have at Home After Giving Birth

Written By M M

Atlanta Postpartum Checklist:

The first two weeks are about comfort, hydration, and keeping things easy. Here’s a short, practical list you can tailor to your family. (Always follow your clinician’s guidance, especially for medicines.) ACOG recommends non-opioid pain meds first (ibuprofen or acetaminophen) and individualized follow-up within the first 3 weeks postpartum. ACOG+1

Food

You need to eat and you need to have clean clothes. This is your #1 priority.

  • Start preparing freezer meals now

  • Start budgeting for eating out now

  • Find out if anyone will be bringing you meals now

  • Consider eating on paper plates for the first week

  • Have snack/drink “stations” set up around the house


Atlanta Doula captures image of newborn on a white blanket

Bottom / Perineal Care

  • Overnight maxi pads, or depends-type bottoms

  • Peri (squirt) bottle

  • Warm-water soaks/sitz bath if advised; they can soothe and promote healing. Cleveland Clinic

  • Witch hazel pads; many find them soothing on perineal tissues.

  • Ice packs

  • Dark high-waisted underwear or disposable

  • Hemorrhoid cream if needed

  • Numbing spray if you want

  • Cleveland Clinic has a good at-home care overview -> Cleveland Clinic



Mom cuddles with newborn baby postpartum. Atlanta doula gives suggestions

Body & Comfort

  • Over-the-counter pain reliever: ibuprofen or acetaminophen are generally compatible with breastfeeding, confirm with your provider. ACOG

  • Water bottle at every feeding chair

  • Loose, soft clothing

  • Small fan or heating pad if that feels good

  • Stool softener if needed; constipation is common after birth. Mayo Clinic

  • Hydration + gentle fiber foods (oats, beans, fruit)

Baby coos at the camera of an atlanta Doula Photographer

Breastfeeding (if applicable)

  • Nursing bras + nursing pads

  • Nipple balm

  • Pump + parts (if pumping)

  • Milk storage bags/food-grade containers with tight lids (CDC has a clear guide). CDC+1

Atlanta Doula photographer poses baby sleeping with his hand by his face

Bottlefeeding (if applicable)

Essentials

  • Bottles & slow-flow nipples (newborn) - enough sets to get through a day without constant washing.

  • Infant formula or expressed breast milk.

  • Safe water source

  • Bottle/nipple brush + dedicated wash basin (or dishwasher basket) and a clean air-dry area. CDC

  • Sterilized parts

  • Cooler + ice packs for outings

  • Burp cloths/bibs

Nice-to-have (optional)

  • Ready-to-feed formula for nights/outings

  • Bottle warmer (never microwave; warm under running warm water if desired)

  • Pitcher for batch-mixing

Parents lovingly hold their newborn while posing for their atlanta doula photographer

Support & Safety

  • Have a list of friends you can call if you need to talk

  • Have your favorite IBCLC make a house visit

  • Postpartum Support International (PSI) HelpLine: text “Help” to 800-944-4773 (EN) or 971-203-7773 (ES) for non-emergency support. Postpartum Support International (PSI)+1

  • National Maternal Mental Health Hotline (24/7): 1-833-TLC-MAMA (1-833-852-6262). Maternal and Child Health Bureau

  • Put an urgent maternal warning signs sheet on the fridge (CDC/AWHONN have good summaries). Call 911 for any urgent signs. CDC+1

M M
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