As a first time mom anticipating the birth of my son, I packed my hospital bag at 28 weeks. To say I was over prepared is an understatement. I’m going to share a list of the things I really needed (and a few extras I was grateful I had). Not every mom-to-be plans to give birth in a hospital, but if you do, this might be helpful.
1. Needed Paperwork.
First and foremost, you need to make sure you have all the proper documentation. While every hospital is different, making sure you have your ID, insurance cards on hand is important. Also, you need to register with Labor and Delivery well before your due date so you don’t have to sign a bunch of papers while you’re in labor. If you have an advance directive, be sure to provide the hospital with a copy when you register as well.
2. Post-Birth Recovery Items.
My hospital provided an awesome kit with all the essentials. A peri-bottle, DermaPlast, Tucks, mesh undies, and pads the size of a smart car. Most likely, you will not have to bring any of these items with you to the hospital. They are all perfect for an at home recovery kit though. (That’s another blog.) What I did bring, however, was a package of Always Discreet Boutique depend-style underwear. I found these to be more comfortable and efficient than the mesh underwear/pad combo after the first day. I also brought Earth Mama organic nipple butter that was soothing during the initial breastfeeding struggles. I preferred it over the Lansinoh they provided for me. Other than these two items, everything I needed was there for me as far as recovery goes. No need to bring the entire drug store with you, as I did.
3. Clothing.
After spending 36 hours in a hospital gown, my cotton jammies and ten dollar Walmart slippers felt like I was swathed head to toe in Vicuña wool. Definitely pack enough loose fitting pajamas and either socks or slippers for the two to three days you will be spending in the hospital. You will also need clothes to go home in. I chose a maxi skirt and a tee shirt. Definitely skip the jeans. That would be torture.
4. Toiletries.
Unless you like washing your hair with Dial soap, pack some shower supplies. After giving birth, you may not care either way. But if you’re particular, I’d recommend packing your own shampoo, conditioner, body wash and face wash. Travel size is perfect since you’re only going to shower once. After so many hours in the circulated air my lips were dry and chapped so chapstick is a must. I’m the kind of person who feels human only after I’ve applied concealer and blush so I packed a small bag of makeup. Most women don’t care in the least about that so if that’s you, skip it. And then of course, toothbrush and toothpaste.
5. Cell Phone and Charger.
There’s long hours of waiting and about a million people to keep in contact with so make sure your phone is charged and accessible. I put a few games and music on mine to help pass the time during early labor.
6. Essential Oils and a Diffuser
Diffusing oils like lavender or Doterra Balance blend really helped create a calm atmosphere in my room. Relaxing is priority number one while in labor.
7. Snacks.
Especially are snacks important for all the lovely family and friends that are waiting for your little bundle to arrive. The hours can be long and hard for everyone, not just mama. Food and water are essential to keeping everyone’s strength up. Nobody wants their significant other to pass out from lack of nutrition while cutting the cord. Not to mention that you will be hungry after you give birth… for like two months. Best to have something yummy on hand right away.
8. Baby Items.
Most likely your hospital or birthing center will have everything you need for your baby right there. I was even sent home with a little kit that contained a swaddle blanket, hat, shirt and a carrying case. Even so, I brought a cute outfit for him to go home in, a couple diapers just in case there is a lag between times they refill the bassinet, a thick baby blanket and car seat, of course. I didn’t even use all the other items I loaded down his diaper bag with. My suggestion is to travel light in this area.
9. Miscellaneous Items.
There were a few things I brought just for comfort. My own pillow and blanket made me feel more at home. Small, battery operated speakers for calming music. Vitamin water for when I wanted a little something tastier than plain ice water. Really, anything particular to you that makes you feel calm and happy. This time is all about you and your baby. Do whatever it takes to make it the best experience possible.
10. Birth Plan.
While not required, it is really helpful to bring a written copy of any special needs, requests or preferences to put in your file or in your room so that everyone is on the same page and you will have what you want and need. I was really happy I did this because when I was laboring and being poked and prodded, it was hard to think clear and decide what I wanted in each situation. While you can’t anticipate everything that comes up, it’s nice to have an idea ahead of time what you want and don’t want.
All in all, I would say that you won’t actually need every single thing you pack. There was so much already provided for me by the hospital. But these items made my experience a little easier. Whatever you want to bring to make that happen, just bring it! The most important thing is to focus on why you are there and the absolute miracle of having a baby. Enjoy every moment!
Modern Mommie 