Postpartum Shopping 101
Shopping for pregnancy and newborn related items can be pretty overwhelming. It’s no surprise that it’s already a tricky period to navigate as is, but on top of that you have varying opinions on what’s best, safest, and most cost effective. Between all of these variables and what seems like a never-ending but faster than desired final trimester - a lot of parents forget to shop for what they will need postpartum.
Now - this is not the end all be all of fourth trimester grocery lists. It’s largely based in what I’ve seen during my years in the field and the bare bones of making things as easy as possible without the frills and extra expenses. Add or remove anything you would (or wouldn’t!) like and customize it to what better suits the needs of your family.
To be transparent I had a fair amount of self discussion around what section to put Postpartum Doulas in - ultimately as useful and beneficial as they (we) are if you cannot afford one don’t spread yourself thin to make it happen. By all means spring for it if able, or ask friends and family to pitch in on a few overnights to catch up on rest after bringing baby home but don’t feel stuck if it isn’t realistic for your situation.
For those who aren’t familiar, a Postpartum Doula is your go to for all things postpartum, newborn, and more. They help with things like
Healing and Bodily Expectations
Finding other local support for lactation, support groups, etc
Housekeeping including laundry, dishes, light tidying or meal prep
Teaching diapering, bathing, or baby wearing
Anything else that would help you during your journey!
It’s similar to the kind of care your mother or grandmother may come stay for a few weeks post delivery to provide — with a few key differences. The biggest one being, there’s no pressure to clean before the arrival of a doula. We’re there to help, not to judge! We also come equipped with up to date and evidence based knowledge, whereas your family members may have all the best intentions but if the information is from the last time they gave birth 25 years ago it may not be accurate or applicable.
Ready to build your Target list?
