A prevalent medical condition among new mothers, postpartum depression (PPD) can result in significant sadness, tiredness, loss of appetite, insomnia, and difficulty for a new mother to bond with their baby. While not every new mother may struggle with PPD, many new may find it challenging to balance caring for their newborn while also caring for themselves. The transition between pregnancy and parenthood is often thought of as a singular act, which has often left new mothers’ needs neglected. They shift quickly from prenatal appointments to be sent home with a newborn, and this may lead them to feel unsupported and anxious. As traditional practices and family structures move further away from supporting new parents during the postpartum period, “wear therapy,” brands are stepping in to help bridge the gap.
The unmistakable new baby smell and tiny cuddles are certainly a joy during postpartum, but the reality of postpartum for many birthing parents also involves recovery. New mothers may experience postpartum sweating, sore breasts, and discomfort down under. But the good news is that there are many products ready to make the recovery process more comfortable. Recovery tools can range from medicated hemorrhoidal pads, nursing bras, soothing gel pads, prenatal retreats, and more. Below are three companies changing how new mothers heal after bringing new life into the world.
Postpartum Belly Band
For new mothers who have a cesarean section (C-section), a postpartum belly band can help keep the wound intact and limit painful movements such as coughing, laughing, sneezing, getting up out of bed, and more. Many new mothers opt for this form of wear therapy after a C-Section, which can also help support organs and muscles as they move back into place, as well as shorten the recovery period.
Mamma Bump is an Australian brand that doesn’t underestimate the importance of a little extra support during the postpartum period. On a mission to empower post-pregnancy recovery, Mamma Bump’s Postpartum Belly Band ($89.90) is endorsed by OBGYNs, midwives, and pelvic floor specialists. This belly band helps manage diastasis recti, alleviate back pain, and prompt pelvic floor healing.
Period Comfort Sets
Created by a new mother who was given the one-size-fits-no-one mesh disposable underwear and an old-fashioned ice pack after birthing a baby. With new mamas often told to suffer through the “unmentionables” of womanhood, Nyssa is “committed to bringing women solutions to easily care for themselves and one another—making ‘deal with it’ a call to action and empowered state of being towards better women’s health and wellbeing.”
With most women having over 2,500 period days between puberty and menopause, this brand has “designed items that prioritize design, comfort, and function.” Nyssa’s Period Comfort Set ($122) includes two pairs of their dual-layered, hip-hugging VieWear Period Comfort Underwear with a hidden interior pocket perfect to discreetly hold heat to the lower abdomen and ease cramps and bloating.
Postpartum Recovery Kits
Postpartum recovery kits often include practical post-birth tools like ice packs, nipple and perineal cream, pads, and postpartum underwear, as well as self-care items. A favorite among postpartum recovery kits is Momcozy’s Postpartum Recovery Essentials Kit ($39.99).
“Championing moms every step of the way,” Momcozy’s postpartum recovery kit is a 12-piece basic recovery kit that includes maternity disposable underwear, witch hazel cooling foam, a reusable cold pad, upside down peri bottle, disposable breast nursing pads, and a reusable canvas bag. This kit is a great option for new mothers on a budget who also want to quickly get rid of discomfort and boost perineum care.
The joys of being a new mother should not be overshadowed by the painful realities that often come along after childbirth. Brands offering wear therapy options aim to support new mothers on their recovery journeys. Nyssa believes that wear therapy products offer “real-world solutions so women can easily care for themselves and one another.” And given the need for new mothers to feel supported and have what they need to best take care of themselves, the value of wear therapy is certainly not to be underestimated.
