I second the thicker pads for their "cushioning" ( I liked the poise incontinece pad the best for the first two/three days- soooo soft and then the libra goodnights for after that) for I also loved the flushable toilet wipes - much gentler than toilet paper and I also used them to clean my nether regions/stitches in the shower and could then just flush it away (cos it got pretty gross) I bought ural and never used it - and I had a tear and stitches.

For bubs - whatever swaddles/wraps you liked last time - I know I def had some favourites I have stored carefully away for next time. I would take a dummy too ( a few styles) - but that's just me

And as for a vaginal birth hurting - yeah it does - but I'd do it again tomorrow - so how bad can it be