
Postpartum recovery: the kit nobody tells you to pack
Stitches, bleeding, a C-section scar and the dreaded first poo. What recovery really looks like after birth, and the simple things that make it easier.
A cooling, no-touch spray for sore, swollen or stitched bits after birth
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Even without a tear, the first days after a vaginal birth usually bring swelling, bruising and stinging, and touching anything down there is the last thing you want to do. This midwife-developed spray lets you soothe the area without contact. You spray it straight on after the loo, or onto a fresh maternity pad.
It's made with witch hazel, lavender oil and tea tree oil. The midwives' tip is to keep it in the fridge for extra cooling relief. Once your dressing is off and healing has started, you can also use it on a C-section wound. In pregnancy, some mums use it for the itching and discomfort of piles.
It's small enough for the hospital bag and makes a useful baby-shower gift. Some tingling is normal. If it burns or hurts, rinse it off and stop using it, and always mention any worsening pain or smell to your midwife.
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Stitches, bleeding, a C-section scar and the dreaded first poo. What recovery really looks like after birth, and the simple things that make it easier.
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