After almost 15 glorious months without a period, Aunt Flo is officially back post-baby. As much as it is unpleasant, getting my period back reminds me of exactly what my body is capable of. It seems like less of a burden now and more of an “Oh yeah, I did that!” moment. The glass is definitely half full for me right now.

Here’s a little bit of what I have been going through to help you compare to your own journey and a few items that make it less of a pain. As always, you know your body better than anyone! If you feel like something isn’t right, be sure you reach out to your doctor to discuss your concerns. As an Amazon Affiliate, I earn a commission on qualifying purchases.

Is the first post-partum period worse than normal?

Yes. For me, it was a mega period. My flow has been much heavier during my post-partum periods, almost filling several pads throughout the day. I have also noticed some larger, nickel-sized clots when I previously had none. The fatigue, headaches, and the bloating are also on another level, as if a normal period isn’t bad enough. I’m on my second post-partum period and I don’t see an improvement yet.

Invest in Quality Pads

I have recently become extremely picky about my pads. During my 6-week healing period, I was using very mainstream synthetic pads daily and, to be honest, I really hated how they felt, how they absorbed, and even how they smelled. All of a sudden, I was really concerned by how “toxic” they felt to me. Although I’m sure they’re fine, I wanted something more natural and found the Honey Pot Company brand. Their pads are 100% natural, pH balanced, and made with clean cotton.

These pads feel utterly magical. I never thought I’d say that about a pad, but they are infused with herbs like mint to create a cooling effect you can actually feel. They smell absolutely divine and are quite absorbent. I have them in regular and overnight and plan to use these post baby number two instead of making my own padsicles.

• The Honey Pot Company Clean Cotton Regular Absorbency Pads, Herbal-Infused Pads with Wings
• The Honey Pot Company Clean Cotton Overnight Pads (12 Count), Herbal-Infused Pads with Wings

Use your Peri Bottle for your Period

You probably have these laying around pot-birth anyway, why not give your peri-bottle some new life? I fill up with warm water and use this after using the restroom.

It’s a little joy from my birth healing period that I am choosing to carry forward. A dear friend gifted me with a bunch of Frida Mom post-partum care and it all worked wonderfully.

Drink Lots of Fluids

As a breastfeeding mom, I already challenge myself to drink 128 ounces of water daily to help with my overall hydration and breast milk supply. I drink two of these bottles everyday.

If you’re breastfeeding, you can typically expect your milk supply to drop during your time of the month. It should return to normal once your period is over, but it never hurts to stay hydrated to keep your supply as high as possible.

Focus on Self Care

Having your period in general is an unpleasant event. Now, you’ve added taking care of a little human on very little sleep into the mix. Don’t forget to spend energy on yourself. I know it’s difficult to find spare time, but believe it or not, YOU are a priority too.

I’ve actually been working out, talking baths, and working on some cross word puzzles (lame, I know) this week. Consider reading a book, diving into a good show, or digging up an old hobby you haven’t worked on in a long time.

You, your partner, and baby, will be thankful you’re refilling your cup- especially during that time of the month.

You’ve Got This Mama!

Your period is a powerful reminder of what your body can do! Celebrate it and take care of yourself.