Essential Belly Birth Recovery Items
After bringing a baby into the world via cesarean birth, the recovery process can feel overwhelming—especially if you weren’t expecting surgery. While traditional postpartum care covers things like managing bleeding, nutrition, and breastfeeding, cesarean recovery comes with its own unique set of needs.
I created this list after my own unplanned c-section, when I found myself navigating healing without much preparation. I had questions like: How can I move without pain? What will help my incision heal faster? Are there natural ways to manage discomfort? Through trial, research, and guidance from birth professionals, I found tools that truly made a difference.
This list includes practical essentials, holistic healing options, and comfort items to support your body in the days and weeks after birth. Whether you’re preparing for a planned cesarean or recovering from an unexpected one, I hope these recommendations make your healing journey easier. Almost all of these items are FSA/HSA eligible.
These are all items I used myself.
Have a question about them? DM me on Instagram @sacredcesarean
MUST-HAVE ITEMS
A bar that makes it easier to get in and out of bed
Why: You will have pain getting up and down without support. Go slowly, use a log roll to get in and out of bed, and grip the bar as needed.
I liked: this one from Amazon
Cost: $40
Abdominal binder
Why: It will help support your core, make it easier to move around, and minimize discomfort while your incision heals.
I liked:
Frida Mom Postpartum Abdominal Support Binder, available on Amazon or in-person at Target
ReCore Fitness Post-Natal FITsplint, recommended by my pelvic floor physical therapist
Cost: $30 & $50
Silicone scar patches
Why: Silicone patches create a protective barrier over your scar to keep it hydrated and improve its appearance.
I liked: Frida Mom C-Section Silicone Scar Patches, available on Amazon or in-person at Target
Cost: $30
Medical adhesive remover
Why: Removing the surgical tape that protects your incision can be time-consuming, and the sticky residue lingers for days or weeks. Scrubbing this sensitive skin as it heals can be painful, but medical adhesive remover pads dissolve the residue gently and make the process much easier. Look for skin-safe and fragrance-free to avoid irritation. A nurse told me to use rubbing alcohol – let’s just say I don’t recommend it.
I liked: Medline Adhesive Remover Pads, Acetone-Free from Amazon – these are the same ones they had in the hospital.
Cost: $10
Scar massage cream or oil
Why: Moisturizing your incision area with soothing cream or oil can help with uncomfortable itching and promote long term healing. It can be applied while doing a scar massage to break up scar tissue and mobilize your incision site.
I liked: MotherLove Organic C-Section Cream from Amazon
Cost: $15
Soft, high-waisted underwear for when you’re done using disposables
Why: Your incision site might be extra sensitive as your skin regains sensation. Low-rise underwear will rub against your incision as it heals.
I liked: Quince Micromodal High Waisted Maternity & Postpartum Brief
Cost: $40
NICE-TO-HAVE ITEMS
Compression socks
Why: During a cesarean delivery, they provide you with a ton of fluids. This often leads to a high level of swelling in your feet, and it can take 2 weeks to clear up.
I liked: Copper Fit Women’s Knee High
Cost: $12
Flexible ice packs
Why: Your incision might be swollen and you might get lower back aches from your lack of a core. If your breasts become engorged when your milk supply arrives, they can help with that, too.
I liked: Gentlepak Reusable Ice Packs
Cost: $20
Breastfeeding support pillow
Why: Many breastfeeding positions put extra pressure on your incision and you might get kicked by your baby in that area (ouch!) You can use pillows you already have or get a circular shaped one like My Breast Friend or Boppy.
I liked: SnuggleMe Organic Nursing Pillow
Cost: $65
Pregnancy / side-sleeping pillow
Why: Finding a comfortable sleep position can be hard after surgery. This will provide additional support and comfort.
I liked: Momcozy Pregnancy Pillow for Sleeping, available on Amazon
Cost: $45
PROBABLY UNNECESSARY, BUT CAN HELP
If you want ice on your back and incision at the same time, with extra padding, this is for you. It's too bulky to wear under clothes and you likely won't wear it out of the house.
If you have soft high waisted underwear and an abdominal binder, these aren’t needed. They can also be challenging to pull up and down safely around your incision when you’re using the bathroom.
OTHER HELPFUL LINKS
This is especially helpful if you can’t see a pelvic floor PT.
