What to pack in your hospital bag
There is no right
way to pack your hospital bag, but for any first time mothers wondering what on
earth you will need ahead of this never-before-experienced event, we have put
together a handy list to help you out.
1.
Your birth plan
For 9 months you
have waited for this moment, imagined how it will go, planned your perfect
labour and breathing techniques… write it all down, and make sure you pack it
somewhere so your birthing partner can easily find it during labour to give to
your midwives and obstetrician.
2.
Comfortable clothes for labour and after birth
Loose fittings
dresses, comfy t-shirts or baggy pants are perfect for during labour and
throughout your hospital stay. Don’t even think about packing your pre-pregnancy
jeans… It’s likely they won’t fit, but also… no one wants to be that
uncomfortable!
3.
Your camera
This could be used
by your birthing partner during the labour and/or birth – set the ground rules
beforehand - but you’ll definitely need it for those first few precious snaps
taken just after your little one has joined you.
4.
Snacks
During labour you
might get hungry (who knows - but Dad might be hungry too); perhaps you’ll be a
little peckish at a random hour of the night while stuck under your new baby
soaking up all the cuddles. Give yourself a snack that will tide you over until
breakfast is served!
5.
A nursing bra (or two).
Other mothers will
tell you they now live in these. Perfect for no-fuss breastfeeding. Especially
if you have visitors.
6.
Toiletries
Just the simple
basics will do, but you might like to pack some makeup as well. Lip balm,
facial moisturiser, toothbrush and toothpaste. And maternity pads.
7.
Muslin wraps or blankets for baby
You probably have
a few specias ones waiting to wrap up your precious new bundle. Bring them to
the hospital to keep baby warm when having cuddles or in the bassinet.
8.
One or two little outfits for baby
You might be
staying in hospital longer than one day especially if you had a caesarean birth
so you might want to take a few little onesies to dress baby in each day and
night.
9.
A coming home outfit for yourself and baby
Again yours should
be comfortable, but still make you feel nice. Baby should wear something super
cute. Choose one of your favourites!
A few bonus things
to include:
Your phone
charger.
Thongs for the
hospital shower.
A pillow if you
would prefer your own, or an extra one.
A nursing pillow
if you need.
Paperwork
(insurance etc) if any.
And don’t forget
to have the baby capsule installed in the car BEFORE you go into labour so
nobody has to race around and organise it.
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