When do I start packing?
You certainly don't want to do any last-minute scrambling worthy of a sitcom script (it won't be nearly as funny if it happens in real life). My suggestion would be when you're around 34-weeks pregnant. Yes, weeks before just in case your baby decides to make an unexpectedly early appearance just like myself, welcoming my baby at 36 weeks.
How much should I take?
It's tricky - you don't know how long your labour will last and therefore how long you'll be there. Most first time mums stay in hospital for at least one night or you may even have to stay several days.
For your partner:-
- A camera or video recorder
Someone has to document the big event. You'll want to immortalize every moment of those first few hours with your new baby. Don't forget the chargers and extra memory card. But check with your hospital first. Some hospitals don't allow videotaping of the birth itself. - Cell phone and charger
Be sure your partner has a cell phone when you head to the hospital. He can call friends and family to update them on your progress and announce the big news when your baby arrives. - Snacks and something to read or watch
- Toiletries
- Some clean t-shirts to change
- Important contact number of family, friends and office mates
- Blanket or sleeping bag
For yourself:-
- Bra and nursing pads
Once baby is born, she/he will need to be fed several times while you're at the hospital - Socks
Bring several pairs of warm socks; delivery is no time to get cold feet ;P - Toiletries & Personal items
Hairbrush, toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, face wash, shampoo, conditioner, lotion. (remember: travel-sized products are your friends) - Extra Bags
To put all the goodies from the hospital. You're bound to have a lot more luggage coming out than you did going in. - Eyeglass (if any)
- Headband or ponytail holder
- A few pairs of maternity underwear
(The hospital will have disposable pairs, which some women find handy) - Your MP3
(Loaded with your favourite tunes) - Slippers / Flip flops
Get the slip on ones where you can wear your socks at the same time. Your feet are too swollen to fit into regular shoes. - Homecoming outfit
Make sure to pack a comfortable outfit you can wear on the way home. Don't expect to pull on your jeans. You won't fit into your pre-pregnancy clothes just yet. - Snacks
After many hours of labour, you're likely to be pretty hungry and you may not want to rely solely on hospital food. So bring your own crackers, fresh or dried fruits, nuts, granola bars or whatever you think you enjoy. - Maternity Pads
Sanitary pads will help away any unnecessary leaking during the first few days after giving birth. - Nipple Cream
If you're planning to breastfeed, a lanolin breast cream will help prep your nipples for their new permanent accessory - your hungry baby.
For Baby:-
- Swaddling Blanket
Keep baby snug on the way back home - Scratch Mittens
Baby skin is delicate, so prevent your little one from scratching themselves. - Nappies / Diapers
Make sure you buy nappies for newborns. (some hospitals provide nappies, for example while other don't. These are the sort of things you need to know) - A going-home outfit
Your baby will need an outfit to go home in, including socks or booties if the clothing doesn't have feet, and a soft cap if the air is likely to be cool.
To make-all-the-difference extras:-
Here's some of the things you could do to make the whole hospital birth experience a much more pleasant thing
- A hairbrush
For brushing, combing & mussing before the regulation 'happy mum & baby' photos - A water spray
For dampening you down during hot and sweaty moments during labour. You can spray it all over your face and neck. Really refreshing. - A hot water bottle
For soothing backache during contractions. "Surprisingly great for pain relief" - A pillow/duvet
For a little slice of extra comfort - Something for your midwife
To show appreciation and say thank you
.x.o.x.o.
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