Congrats on your adorable little bundle! Now let’s talk about that new mom bod. We all know how dramatically a woman’s body changes during pregnancy, but if you’re a first timer, you might be surprised how it continues to morph afterward — breasts, waistlines, and hormones are all still in flux for quite some time. One thing is for sure — you grew a human, and you deserve to be comfortable. Here are a few things that can help.
POSTPARTUM SURPRISE: THINGS ARE DRIER THAN THE DESERT DOWN THERE.
…Meet Chiavaye
You can blame this one on your hormones: a lack of estrogen can cause vaginal dryness, and especially during breastfeeding, estrogen is lacking. Chiavaye is an all-natural, vegan, hypoallergenic oil blend used as both a lubricant and a personal moisturizer. In a sleek and discreet black bottle (which helps keep the oils fresh), it’s a welcome alternative to mass market lubes — it’s silky and smooth, not greasy or sticky, and only contains nourishing, natural oils like coconut, sunflower, and evening primrose. Check the ingredient panel of some of those big brands in the drug store — you might find a host of icky elements like parabens and petroleum derivatives. (One thing to note: oil-based lubes are not compatible with latex condoms, so unless you’re gunning for another bun in the oven, use another method of birth control.)
The best part is that because of the ingredients, it’s truly a multipurpose oil. How many of us have forgotten, expired tubes of unused lube floating around? Should you no longer need to use it for intimate reasons, you can easily finish up the bottle as an all-over body moisturizer.
Shop it at www.chiavaye.com, from $12.99
POSTPARTUM SURPRISE: OW. OW. OW. (SEX SURE DOESN’T FEEL LIKE IT USED TO.)
…Enter The Bumper
Let’s assume that you’ve waited the minimum amount of time (give yourself at least six weeks, girl) and that there’s adequate foreplay and lubricant on hand. Sex still hurts? Yup, persistent pelvic floor pain and scar tissue left from tears or episiotomies can all be part of the postpartum experience. If it’s deeper penetration that’s causing you grief, this donut-shaped buffer can give the illusion of deeper sex to your partner while giving you (and your cervix) some major relief. Made with a latex-free, silicone-based “silaskin” material, there’s even a second piece that can be stacked on for extra protection. Sure gives new meaning to “cushion for the pushin.”
Shop it on Amazon, $29.95
POSTPARTUM SURPRISE: THE MELONS THAT USED TO BE BREASTS…
…Support ‘em with Leonisa Nursing Bras
You probably discovered how important a great bra is during pregnancy—and postpartum is no different, especially while your breasts get adjusted to nursing. The Super Comfy Wireless Back Support Nursing Bra from Leonisa will save your boobs and your back with it’s wire-free design and criss-crossing support bands that help uphold your posture. Equally as integral, it’s a cinch to nurse while wearing—the double-lined cups unclip and fold down for easy access. The material is smooth and super stretchy, and allows just the flex you need to feel comfortable and supported right now.
Shop it at leonisa.com, $35
POSTPARTUM SURPRISE: YOU STILL HAVE TO WATCH WHAT YOU PUT ON YOUR SKIN.
…So snag some Honest Mama
Jessica Alba is at it again. This year her line of natural baby and beauty products expanded to include expecting moms—but we also recommend them for postpartum mamas too. If you’re breastfeeding, you still need to watch what you put on your skin (for example, peppermint oil can decrease milk supply, and there are concerns about other ingredients, like certain skincare actives and preservatives, leaching into breast milk and exposing your baby). Play it safe and still pamper your skin with Honest Mama’s Rock The Bump Body Butter, Sweet Curves Body Lotion, and Calm Your Nip Balm. They’re formulated with baby-safe ingredients and are unscented, but rich in skin-soothing ingredients like shea, coconut oil, and avocado oil. Phew — there’s not a paraben, phthalate, dye, or synthetic fragrance to be found, and the nipple balm is safe for baby to ingest while feeding. You’ll need some self care more than ever, and these will give you spa-inspired me time and peace of mind.
Find them all at honest.com, from $14.95 each
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