Maternity Blog & News | New Beginnings
Saving My Sore Bits: Our Top Recommended Postpartum Essentials
Postpartum recovery is no joke—swelling, tearing, and discomfort are all part of the journey. Discover the must-have postpartum products that provide real relief, from perineal wash bottles to cooling pads. Get expert-backed tips to heal faster and feel more comfortable after childbirth. Because, mama, you deserve it!
Learn more
Top 5 Hospital Must Haves
Packing your hospital bag feels like such a milestone, doesn’t it? For me, it didn’t truly hit that I was about to become a mum until I started tossing things into a bag. My partner was not impressed by my last-minute packing (oops). Antenatal classes helped with the basics—like button-up pyjamas for feeding and socks because birthing suites are cold—but what I really wish someone had told me were the actual essentials that made those first few days easier. Here are my top 5 hospital bag must-haves for first-time or returning mummas. 1. Maternity Pads I’ll be honest: I thought big supermarket pads would do the trick after birth. Nope. Postpartum bleeding (lochia) is heavy and lasts weeks, not days, so you’ll want proper maternity pads. They’re more absorbent, longer, and softer—exactly what your recovering body needs. The New Beginnings Maternity Pads were a lifesaver for me: comfortable, the right length, and no stressing about leaks every time I stood up. Stock up—running out in hospital is not fun[1]. 2. Maternity Bra’s One thing I wish I had known earlier: bring at least two maternity bras to the hospital. You’ll need them from the moment your baby arrives, and trust me—they’ll quickly become your new best friend. A good maternity bra offers more than just support; it gives you comfort when your body is changing daily, easy access for breastfeeding, and a little modesty when you’re juggling visitors and nurses in and out of your hospital room. Having more than one also means you’re covered when one gets messy (and it will!). If you’re unsure what to buy, check out our guide on Maternity vs Nursing Bras. It breaks down the difference and helps you choose the right bra for both your hospital stay and the weeks of recovery and feeding that follow. 3. Toiletries/Makeup One thing I wish I had known earlier: bring at least two maternity bras to the hospital. You’ll need them from the moment your baby arrives, and trust me—they’ll quickly become your new best friend. A good maternity bra offers more than just support; it gives you comfort when your body is changing daily, easy access for breastfeeding, and a little modesty when you’re juggling visitors and nurses in and out of your hospital room. Having more than one also means you’re covered when one gets messy (and it will!). If you’re unsure what to buy, check out our guide on Maternity vs Nursing Bras. It breaks down the difference and helps you choose the right bra for both your hospital stay and the weeks of recovery and feeding that follow. 4. Personal Items A few extras made my stay smoother: Thongs for the hospital shower A few outfit changes Muslin wraps for bub Nappies (my hospital didn’t provide them!) A water bottle I could refill easily Dummies (if you choose to use them) It’s not about overpacking—it’s about having the things that help you feel prepared and calm. 5. Snacks Breastfeeding takes a lot out of you, and your body needs fuel. Hospital food can be hit or miss, so I packed muesli bars, crackers, nuts, and fruit. My partner also did the traditional “first meal run”—mine was sushi, and I savoured every bite! Hydration is just as important. Keeping a big water bottle by my bed reminded me to sip constantly (your body will thank you, and so will your milk supply). Hospital bag lists often cover the basics, but these little extras—maternity pads, comfy bras, your own toiletries, a few personal must-haves, and snacks—make a huge difference in how supported and comfortable you feel. If you’re starting to pack, check out our Postpartum Products Collection for recovery essentials that make those first few weeks easier. You’ve got this, mumma.
Learn more
Shop by stage
Whether your expecting, postpartum or looking for products to help you through feeding your baby, New Beginnings is here to walk alongside your journey of motherhood.
