Postpartum Preparation

My EDD is 4 Jan 2017 (End of 39th Week), which means from now till my EDD, I am just 3 weeks away and the countdown is definitely on. Sometimes, I wonder to myself if I am well-prepared enough. In terms of baby stuff, I believe we have bought most of the essentials. In terms of emotional preparation and postpartum to-dos, I don’t think we can ever be ready. I am often asked the question of whether I made enough plans for it. But I believe too much planning is not good either as I will be too fixated in the plan and if there is any unforeseen changes, I may end up even more stressed. However, I do believe some level of mental preparation is important so that irregardless what situation is met, at least I know what the options are.

1) Booking of Jamu Massage Service + Getting Anti-cellulite creams

Heavily encouraged by my sister, I decided to book for the Jamu service even though I was initially not intending to. (SAVE MONEY) I gave in because I think it is good to pamper myself for once since I decided to do without a confinement lady, which is even more costly. The Jamu service also includes breast massage to help ensure there is no breast engorgement which is the usual cause of postpartum depression. Breast engorgement is painful for the mother and the baby will not be able to receive a good flow of milk, leading to hunger. With lots of hunger cries, the mother will become stressed and resulted in less milk production. The vicious cycle continues. The same Jamu lady which my sis is using also recommended me to also use Clarins Body Shaping Cream and Clarins Body Lift Cellulite Cream in conjunction with the tummy massage to increase the efficacy of reducing stretchmarks and toning the tummy. 

In the meantime, I am using Elancyl Stretchmark Cream. I got it cheap at Watsons at 1 for 1. I have also tried Cocoa Butter Stretch Mark Oil which has a nice Rosehip Fragrance. However, I find the oil a little oily for my preference. I use of Elancyl Stretchmark Cream on both my tummy and thighs. Not only does it make my tummy feels tighter, it also reduces the appearance of cellulite on my thighs. It is not a miracle cream but a preventive measure. It works by nourishing cell metabolism and moisturizing the skin to keep it fairly elastic. Applying cream alone will not help, it is also important to consume lots of water along with a nutritious intake of vitamins (A, C and E), healthy protein, and zinc to increase skin's elasticity. Over-consumption of caffeine, on the other hand, reduces elasticity. I am quite particular about stretchmarks as they are really unsightly.


2) Clean out the freezer and fridge, to free up space for fresh food and milk bottles

I have partially cleared the fridge and kitchen cupboard, and found lots of expired sauces and tea bags. It feels great clearing up stuff. This what people describe a pregnant woman's urge to clean and organise as a sign of labour, commonly known as "Nesting". 

3) Maternity Pads & Disposable Panties

It didn't daunt on me that I will have heavy menses-like bleeding or discharge named lochia. My sis warned me that the flow will be so heavy that I would need a good maternity pad. Typical pads may be uncomfortable due to the stitches post-episiotomy. A comfy one will be that from Mothercare.

4) Meals

As my previous blog-post on Postpartum beliefs and practices has stated, I tend to believe in a well-balanced diet. As I am not going to have a confinement lady to help out, I may turn to healthy food subscriptions or delivery services to supply me with the meals. 

• Food Matters : Provides a huge variety of food (Asian, Fusion, Western, Vegetarian, Low Carb, Gluten-free). A monthly subscription ranging $40-$144/month, est $7.20-10/meal. No additional delivery fees an unfinished credits are rolled over to the following month. Only deliver for lunch time at the moment. They have an app for you to plan your meal in advance easily.
• Grain : Provides healthy range of western food (Variety is still limited but you are not "forced" into a monthly subscription as you can order when you need it.) Food ranging from $10-$16/meal. Delivery charges are additional and ranges depending on location (~$6.50) with a minimum order surcharge (if orders are under $25). 
• Kim's Kitchen : Confinement food packages at 28 Days (single at $779, dual at $1,558), 14 Days (single at $389.50, dual at $779; Prices before GST). 
• Natal Essentials : Confinement food packages at 28 Days (single at $818, dual at $1,558), 14 Days (single at $418, dual at $818; Prices before GST)