This shop has been compensated by ACUVUE® Brand Contact Lenses and Collective Bias, Inc. All opinions are mine alone. #TreatYourEyes2 #TreatYourEyes #CollectiveBias
Most of us are great at getting everything ready for our newborn long before they arrive. From painting the nursery, to installing the carseat, we are exceptional at being prepared for the little one’s needs. However, in the midst of all our nesting, we often forget to take care of ourselves. And when we neglect our own needs, be they emotional or physical, we simply can’t be the best that we can. That’s why I’ve composed a list of 5 simple things that make adjusting to postpartum life a little easier for mom.
1. Be up to date on your health needs.
There’s nothing worse than having to run a bunch of errands with your newborn when you are tired and exhausted beyond belief. Having things creep up on you like your contact prescription expiring, is no fun to deal with. That’s why it’s important to make it a priority to have an eye exam before the baby comes. That way you can also stock up on contacts, so you don’t have to worry about it at all when you’re adjusting to life with a new little one to love. I recently had my appointment at Target Optical® to update my prescription and it was such a breeze. I made my appointment online, and just popped in when it was time to see the doctor. I ended up getting 1-DAY ACUVUE® MOIST Brand Contact Lenses. They are seriously game changers for me! I have such sensitive eyes that I basically have to wear glasses everyday. I find it so refreshing to be able to put brand new contacts in every morning. I seriously recommend it. Even though I still have allergies, I’ve been able to wear these contacts just fine. I don’t even notice that I’m wearing them! I think the extra moisture and the fact that I get to put in a brand new, clean pair every day is what’s key for me. I seriously can’t get over how great these contacts are. I’ve been recommending them to everyone.
Besides getting a current eye exam and stocking up on great contacts, it’s also a good idea to visit the dentist before the baby comes. I ended up having a cavity that was on the verge of a root canal. I’m so grateful I went in when I did! It’s so nice that I don’t have to try and schedule a babysitter for my newborn so I can go to the dentist later.
2. Get some nursing friendly clothing.
You probably have stocked up on adorable baby clothes, but did you consider that when you nurse, you are going to need clothes that give you access to breastfeed? I know breastfeeding isn’t for everyone, but if you plan on nursing, you are going to need compatible clothing. I didn’t think about this before my first baby, and I ended up in a mother’s room half-dressed because I had worn a dress with a zipper up the back and the only way I could nurse my baby was to basically take it off. If you are wondering what kinds of clothing works for nursing, I’ve included some ideas above.
3. Load up on postpartum feminine care items.
Everyone talks about their deliveries. You’ve probably been given tons of unsolicited advice by now. However, most people forget to mention the after care that occurs post delivery. You are going to need several items to help take care of yourself, and you’re not going to want to run out and buy them right after you deliver. It’s best to be prepared! Some of these items include feminine pads, numbing spray (you may get some from the hospital before you leave), heating pads (you will likely feel lots of cramping as your uterus contracts back to its previous size), cold packs (great for treating an episiotomy), and if you are nursing, you will likely need some nursing pads to catch any extra milk. I also recommend trying padsicles, but consult with your doctor first. All of these items can be found at Target as well, so if you go there for your eye exam, stop by the pharmacy and wellness section too.
4. Grab some quick beauty products.
No one expects you to be dressed to the nines when you just had a baby, but there are times you’ll find yourself needing to go out in public when you haven’t washed your hair or put makeup on in days. I found it extremely convenient to create a quick 5-minute beauty routine for such occasions. My regimen included using a good dry shampoo, adding a bit of mascara, lipgloss, some mineral powder, and a little bronzer for some color. It’s amazing how these steps could make me feel so much more presentable in such a little amount of time. I also tint my eyebrows and eyelashes right before I have the baby so I don’t need to fill them in/use mascara as much right after (they are both super blonde naturally.)
5. Pick up some great books.
If you plan on nursing, you are going to be spending several hours a day doing it. While it’s a wonderful time to bond with your sweet one, it also gives you a great opportunity to read some new books. It’s great to have some books already picked out so you don’t need to try and find some once the chaos of having a newborn in the house has begun. Audiobooks are also great during this time since they don’t require you to hold the book or turn the pages. If you have a favorite book, I’d love your suggestions in the comments. I’m still working on my next postpartum reading list.
Do you have any additional suggestions of things to do before having your baby? I’d love to hear them!
Important Safety Information: Available by prescription only for vision correction. Ask your doctor if ACUVUE® Brand— is right for you. Although rare, serious eye problems can develop while wearing contact lenses. Talk to your eye doctor about proper wear and care. Ask your doctor for important use and safety information, or see acuvue.com.
