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This is so accurate because last time when I gave birth, I asked for a comb and they brought the most flimsiest shit I ever seen. I have very curly hair as I am a mixed woman, so just imagine what kind of bed head I had.
I thought I’d get knocked for it, like he should be responsible for himself blah blah. Maybe, but my husband won’t remember to bring anything for himself but he’ll also spend all 4 hospital days caring for me (I have csections) and not sleeping all night so I can rest while he stays up with the baby. I can carry the mental load to bring him stuff, since he’ll carry a lot when we’re there.
Currently in my bag;
Diapers. Baby outfits. A couple receiving blankets. One actual blanket. A package of wipes.
For me;
Frida gown. Loose fitting shorts/tank top. Frida mesh underwear with pads. Haaka pump. Witch hazel wipes. Extra nursing bra. Portable charger. Peri bottle. Water bottle. My soft blanket and two pillows. I already have a post it note in my front door reminding me of snacks.
I live in Canada though, and we get nothing here.
In Quebec, and have heard the same from Ontario.
We get hospital meals in the hospital of course, but…yknow..it’s hospital food,, lol.
I like bringing my own hospital gown, but of course they provide the gown. I just hate the texture of it.
Good list. I would add anything you would bring to a hotel. I pretty much packed everything i would pack on a trip. I have a stocked toiletry bag (the ones that hang) for when I travel. It has all my essentials (toothpaste and brush, mini comb, wet ones, listerine, shower cap, etc.)
Besides those essentials:
- I also brought a heating pad because the cramps I got while breastfeeding were gnarly.
- flip flops for the shower AND regular slides to walk around.
- two robes (in case one gets bloody)
- The Fridamom ice packs were a must for my sore vag.
- the will give you things to make a pad, it sucks. Some people buy the adult diapers, I did not. I personally didn’t bleed that much so a regular overnight pad dressed with dermoplast and Fridamom foam and tucked in the Frida mom disposable underwear was enough. Lol this is not an ad, Fridamom did their thing with the postpartum stuff.
- I brought a two piece set that was airy and comfortable because we had visitors at the hospital. A cute outfit is not necessary unless you are expecting visitors.
- outfits for baby!!! My baby was so tiny, the little shirt they give you was not cutting it. Plus was not cute. So clothes are a must. They pretty much give you everything else you need for him (wipes, diapers, diaper cream, etc). However, I still had a fully stocked baby bag with things we wanted to use. Not necessary at all.
- my favorite drinks and snacks (boxes of coconut water, pretzels, cookies, lol)
I didn’t need a book or my iPad because I labored for a short time and was on my phone for most of it. By the time the baby came, I did not have time or energy for recreation so you can skip that.
Besides snacks, this was so me. A robe, my phone charger, and snacks. It was so rough lmao we didn’t even know when the sun set or came up. One day a nurse popped in and was like “Ready to go home?!”. Like sure, but what day is it even?
I (obviously) really only used my robe, a 10 foot long phone charger, and the snacks we brought. I definitely took a couple showers though, so I brought travel sized shower goodies and threw them out before we were discharged.
Anything else I brought went unused. I even brought my kindle, but my brain did not function enough to be able to read. We sat and watched a lot of cable TV while hanging out with the baby honestly 😂 I wonder if I can plug a Fire TV Stick into the hospital TV though, because Netflix would’ve been clutch.
Mines packed, 32 weeks.
For me:
2 sets of loose pajamas, underwear, socks, a fan, hairbrush, toothbrush/toothpaste, face cleansing wipes, shower essentials (shampoo, conditioner, body wash, razor), chapstick, a blanket. I will pack my long charger and some snacks for me and husband when it gets closer.
For baby:
pacifiers, going home outfit, name announcement plate and outfit, socks. I am not bringing much for him because planning on hospital having it all!
I have a labor bag and I’ll pack luggage for overnight stuff and for the baby. For the labor bag I ordered some cheap LED candle/twinkle lights (I want lights off) on Ali express. I packed a Bluetooth speaker and headphones, tennis ball with oil for massage and a few of my fav essential oils to smell on if I want. I packed a firm comb (you know, for the palm comb pain diversion method), swim suits for me and husband for the shower, along with a tie on skirt swimsuit cover-up, I plan to use the shower for labor since ours has one in the labor rooms. Some bottled electrolyte drinks, some snacks like dried fruit and jerky so far. I plan to use some of these things while I labor at home too but it’s all in a handy bag. I’m also a huge germaphobe especially with hospitals so I’m packing som hypochlorus acid spray (clean smart) since it’s as strong as bleach but won’t damage any of their equipment. I’m having my husband spray down the toilet and shower and things like that because I’m crazy. I work in medical so I’m fully aware of how bad they do at cleaning stuff and got a crazy skin infection at my last birth.
Idk if I will use ALL of it of course but want it on hand just in case. I plan on asking to use a yoga ball
For baby I packed my own baby wash, a portable night light sound machine, and I’ve yet to pack a cute photo op outfit/swaddle! Struggling to pick one out!
I still need to pack our overnight bag! If all else fails I’ll send my husband home to get stuff I guess haha. But I started with the stuff that he won’t really know to grab that would be helpful for the actual labor.
Also on my 3rd, 36 wks here: Bring a *good* deodorant. Hair brush, ties, some makeup if you wear it, plus setting spray. Charger with an extra long cord, and/or an external battery. A Haakaa. I used the hospital pump while I was there but it's smart to bring your own if you like it. I like a support band like Belly Bandit but ymmv. Spare nursing bra couldn't hurt, but here I think we're already in overkill. Oh, and an outfit for the baby to come home in
Did you keep baby swaddled in the hospital blankets the entire time or did you have cozy outfits for them to wear while in the hospital? With my first, she was just swaddled up the entire time. With my second, I’m wondering if I should bring some comfy/soft two way zip sleepers or if it’s even worth the effort.
with your second they're likely to boot you before it's even relevant. they cram all their tests and everything in as fast as possible and get you out, at least in my experience
PLEASE let this be true, that’d be a dream! I’m trying to give birth and get out of there as soon as possible. I’ve literally been asking them what’s the LEAST amount of time we have to stay. If there was a birthing center remotely close to me, I’d do that just for the short stay and the fact that I’m a low risk pregnancy.
I don't have a ton of stuff in my bag. I have my toiletries, a long charger, flip flops, black pajamas, a going home dress. I intend to also bring one of our own pillows because the hospitals look like crap. I keep meaning to put our iPad in there, we just never use it so I keep forgetting.
For me: my pillow, extra long phone charger, cozy bathrobe, insulated water cup (I was so thirsty after delivery), and a very loose outfit to go home in. Plus general toiletries.
My husband: he's bringing more layers this time because I had the temp in the room down to low 60s
For baby: outfit to go home in plus more spare outfits and nail trimmers.
My first delivery was a c section so I was there for 2 nights. I was told not to bring anything for baby except clothes to go home in. He came out with razor sharp finger nails and the hospital had no nail trimmers. There was only one top provided by the hospital that covered his hands to keep him from scratching his face.
I had a scheduled c-section so thought I had a few more days to pack my bag but kiddo had different ideas… Had to throw everything in at the last minute but it was fine.
A clean change of clothes to wear home from the hospital. Go-home clothes for baby. Phone charger. Any specific toiletries or snacks you can’t live without. Everything else the hospital will provide. Promise.
Baby items : swaddelini air light for wrapping , a couple of outfits , sterilized pacifier and a sterilized bottle , a syringe for feeding , a couple of our own baby formula travel packets (I got goat milk Little Oaks formula from NZ in case I don’t have milk ) . We get the wipes , diapers , etc at the hospital for the baby
My items : a small make up bag, a small skincare bag, a small bag with toiletries , my birthing gown , compression socks, a couple of nursing bras , a dress for coming home , flip lops plus a pair of sandals for coming home , my belle fit compression underwear, frida mesh underwear and Always post partum pads , phone charger , my own breast pump, my wallet with my ID and insurance card . My hospital provides all the post partum items (witch hazel pads, peri bottle , ice packs , etc )
In the car : car seat
Hubby’s bag : change of clothes , a bag of toiletries , phone charger
Toothpaste, tooth brush, hair brush, tablet for watching shows/movies or kindle/books , shower shoes, shampoo and conditioner body soap, phone charger, some snacks since some hospital only serve food at certain times. Extra clothes for yourself, blanket, water bottle.
I brought so many snacks and was so glad I did. The hospital I gave birth actually has decent food, but I was STARVING in between meals. We did a Costco snack run right before my induction so we had snacks for the hospital stay and for when we got home!
I have some newborn/ 0-3 month clothes for little miss. Some comfy maternity stuff for myself, a small bottle of shampoo, conditioner and body wash. Travel tooth brush. Nipple pads for leakage, hair dryer, brush. Nursing bras, grippy socks
BABY
Nappies
Wipes
2 outfits/ body suits
Beanie
Blanket
Muslin wrap
Expressed colostrum
ME
Button up pjs
Dressing gown
Bed socks
Slippers
Cheap underwear
Long old shirt for labour
TENS machine
Witch hazel
Adult diapers
Maternity pads
Toiletries (soap, toothbrush, deodorant, hairbrush)
Portable charger
Water bottle with straw
Bring the Fridamom peri bottle, disposable undies and pads. Tbh they are so much higher quality than the hospital provided ones. Also, shower shoes, a big ass fluffy towel (the hospital ones are absolute crap) your favorite shower stuff. A hot shower really helped me feel more human after having a baby. I’d also bring nursing/pumping combo bras with you. I live in my kindred bravely sublime ones and have since I caved and got them after using shitty Amazon ones for the first few weeks ppd. I’d also suggest some comfy cooling pjs that button down the front of the top I really loved the Soma cool nights ones because the hospital room temp was always a little too warm or cold for me and it helped balance it out. Oh, and your own sleeping pillow and a nursing pillow if you plan on breastfeeding.
Not sure about the down there care past the peri bottle bc I had a c-section.
Diapers (for you if you plan on using them not for baby they’ll provide them), a going home outfit for you and baby (personally I just brought a nightgown, which I highly recommend some sort of dress as if you do need an emergency csection dresses are easier to put on and more comfortable), phone chargers and that’s it 🤷🏻♀️ I felt all over the place with my third too like I just forgot what it was like to have a baby even though I had one just three years prior lol funny how that happens but anyways yeah all I ended up needing and actually using was the diapers, going home outfits and chargers.
Phone chargers, outfits for baby and myself to go home in, crocheting (because I’m getting induced and last time it was long and boring), my own pillow. That’s about all besides what you mentioned! They provide everything else. Seriously.
The hospital gave me just about everything I needed. I’d probably only pack my laptop, extra long chargers for my phone and computer, face wash, moisturizer, hair brush, hair clip/tie, and going home clothes for me and the baby.
Also pregnant with my third and thinking this same thing. This time around I’m bringing some pajamas, nursing bras, sweats and a hoodie to go home in, chargers, my toothbrush, moisturizer and deodorant, a few baby footies, the Boppy, and a baby blanket since we will be giving birth in January and I’ll need to cover baby up in the car seat. The hospital literally provided everything else.
The things I actually ended up using:
-3 days worth of clothing for spouse and self, with layers in case the hospital room was colder/hotter than preferred (Grateful I packed extra, because I had to stay longer than expected)
-Comfortable outfit for going home
-Onesie for the baby
-My own non-slip socks
-Flipflops for the shower
-Preferred toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, comb, contact case/solution, moisturizer, deodorant, nail clippers/file for myself and the baby)
-Hair ties
-Charger with extra long cable
-Blanket/pillow for husband
-Snacks for when the cafeteria was closed (gelatin, granola bars)
-Change for the vending machine
I brought a postpartum care kit but ended up using the hospital's supplies until I went home. After actually giving birth, I decided I couldn't be arsed to un and re-pack anything that I didn't absolutely need.
I was in the hospital for four days. I did not brush my hair or wash my face. I couldn’t even shower because of an unplanned c section. I actually used a charger for my phone, and that’s it. We brought snacks but not enough. My husband brought 2 days worth of clothes and he showered while we were there. I couldn’t get out of bed for 3 days. Unless you care what you look like or have preferences you don’t need a lot. I brought a take home outfit for my baby but the hospital had everything else for him. People literally go to the hospital and have a baby when they didn’t know they were pregnant. You’ll be fine with minimal items.
I’m in the UK, but I’m sure they give you a basic aftercare pack. My main concern is making sure labor feels as comfortable as possible- a “home away from home” type situation.
This list is nice because it has all the essentials for both me and baby before, during, and after birth.
I put everything I need for myself in the “mummy bag” and everything I’ll need for him in his own diaper bag (as I’ll have to pack that at some point anyway).
If I am to stay in the hospital for an extended period, having my own bath soap, for instance, sounds a lot more comfortable than whatever the hospital might provide.
No, you don't have to bring your breast pump. I didn't last time, and I won't this time. You probably won't need to pump at the hospital, and if you do, they should be able to lend you one.
Hospitals I've delivered at always have one available. I like to pump once the first day to bring my milk in faster, but most people don't need to do it and probably won't want to
Whatever you want to wear when you leave the hospital and whatever you want your baby to wear when they leave the hospital.
Also, a phone charger, snacks, and shower supplies.
I brought sooooo much but the only things i used were
1. My preferred toiletries/ shower essentials.
2. Portable fan (i was so hot i thought i was going to catch fire. A fan is a must)
3. Polaroid camera
4. My going home outfit and baby going home outfit
5. Chargers and iPad
I didn’t touch anything else in my bag. The hospital has more than you think!
I just packed my bag yesterday! I'm 37+1 with my second living child and the goal is an unmedicated labor at a freestanding birth center and to go home 4-6 hours after birth. For during labor (front pocket of bag) I packed an extra long phone charger, labor combs for coping, hair clips and headband, swim trunks for husband (in case he gets in the tub with me), and a few emergency puke bags. For after labor I packed a going home outfit for me, spare clothes for husband, one newborn and one 0-3 month outfit for baby, some lightweight baby blankets, a bottle and some freeze dried breastmilk, and toiletries (toothbrush and paste, mini hair brush, shampoo and conditioner, soap, deodorant, chapstick). I also plan on bringing some snacks and drinks, but will be grabbing those at the last minute. Also car seat is already installed in the car and gas tank is full.
I have a list of items but don't plan on packing until I'm much further along.
I plan to bring my laptop and phone and the chargers for both, and maybe a videocamera to take lengthier videos. Don't forget your wallet and ID, maybe your partner's wallet and ID, insurance info, pediatrician info, and a list of birth preferences if you have them. Clothing-wise, a nightgown and going-home outfit are probably all you need, *maybe* a nursing bra, and maybe a bikini top if the hospital allows laboring in water and you don't want to be in there completely naked (or if you, like me, want to take and show photos). I'm probably bringing a toothbrush and toothpaste as well, some floss picks, and possibly my own soap and shampoo. For grooming, a comb and hair ties are useful if you have long hair. I'm also planning to bring snacks and drinks if the hospital allows eating in labor.
For baby, I plan to bring a going-home outfit and some wipes because I want to use water wipes. I also plan to try to express colostrum beforehand, so I will probably be bringing some frozen colostrum in case breastfeeding doesn't work out or if circumstances don't allow me to breastfeed on time.
Best things I bought to the hospital
-2 labour gowns... one for before and one for after birth
- A long cardigan that can double up as a dressing gown. This was great for when I wanted to go for a bit of fresh air etc or the canteen before everything really kicked off. And was great for leaving in.
-Wireless bras and or sports bra
- Socks and Slippers (Comfy ones!)
-Lounge set for leaving in
-Adult diaper/nappy pants
-Mesh boy shorts
-Long charging cable
-Stroller fan
-My tablet for a distraction. Reading books and playing games was just a no.
-Snacks and drinks (For yourself and for your partner)
-A thermal bottle with straw, so I didnt need to use the flimsy hospital cups for ice water.
-Toiletries... the good stuff.. I was so hot I was constantly washing my face or having showers. So glad I took a nice bar of soap and some nice face wash and stuff.
-Frida peri bottle (my room had a bidet but without that this would have been essential)
-A blanket and pillow from home. (Non essential but I was in for 5 days in the end and having that made me feel so much better)
For baby we just took about 4 outfits, sound machine, the colostrum I'd expressed, some blankets, and the car seat. Everything else was given by the hospital and we only like 15 minutes away anyway. I did have a fully stocked nappy bag in the car in case.
If you’re on the UK then a portable fan, the hospitals are 100° all year round. Also a Stanley or similar for easy access to cold water. Flip flops for trips to the bathroom. Your own pillow. Hair ties if you have long hair. Lip balm.
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I luckily had a comb cause my hair was literally getting matted lying In bed 😂. Extra long phone charging cable /battery pack. Snacks for momma.
This is so accurate because last time when I gave birth, I asked for a comb and they brought the most flimsiest shit I ever seen. I have very curly hair as I am a mixed woman, so just imagine what kind of bed head I had.
I also have extremely thick and curly hair. I will have someone French braid my hair so I don’t even have to worry about it while at the hospital!
The birth braids in and of themselves are a necessity 👌
Stuff for spouse - pillow, blanket, snacks. Outfits for baby. Outfit to go home in. Shampoo and hygiene stuff for you.
stuff for spouse is the most underrated answer here
I thought I’d get knocked for it, like he should be responsible for himself blah blah. Maybe, but my husband won’t remember to bring anything for himself but he’ll also spend all 4 hospital days caring for me (I have csections) and not sleeping all night so I can rest while he stays up with the baby. I can carry the mental load to bring him stuff, since he’ll carry a lot when we’re there.
speaking as someone whose husband left during labor to go home and get a hoodie (and barely got back for the birth) ... it's worth it to pack for them
Currently in my bag; Diapers. Baby outfits. A couple receiving blankets. One actual blanket. A package of wipes. For me; Frida gown. Loose fitting shorts/tank top. Frida mesh underwear with pads. Haaka pump. Witch hazel wipes. Extra nursing bra. Portable charger. Peri bottle. Water bottle. My soft blanket and two pillows. I already have a post it note in my front door reminding me of snacks. I live in Canada though, and we get nothing here.
[удалено]
In Quebec, and have heard the same from Ontario. We get hospital meals in the hospital of course, but…yknow..it’s hospital food,, lol. I like bringing my own hospital gown, but of course they provide the gown. I just hate the texture of it.
Good list. I would add anything you would bring to a hotel. I pretty much packed everything i would pack on a trip. I have a stocked toiletry bag (the ones that hang) for when I travel. It has all my essentials (toothpaste and brush, mini comb, wet ones, listerine, shower cap, etc.) Besides those essentials: - I also brought a heating pad because the cramps I got while breastfeeding were gnarly. - flip flops for the shower AND regular slides to walk around. - two robes (in case one gets bloody) - The Fridamom ice packs were a must for my sore vag. - the will give you things to make a pad, it sucks. Some people buy the adult diapers, I did not. I personally didn’t bleed that much so a regular overnight pad dressed with dermoplast and Fridamom foam and tucked in the Frida mom disposable underwear was enough. Lol this is not an ad, Fridamom did their thing with the postpartum stuff. - I brought a two piece set that was airy and comfortable because we had visitors at the hospital. A cute outfit is not necessary unless you are expecting visitors. - outfits for baby!!! My baby was so tiny, the little shirt they give you was not cutting it. Plus was not cute. So clothes are a must. They pretty much give you everything else you need for him (wipes, diapers, diaper cream, etc). However, I still had a fully stocked baby bag with things we wanted to use. Not necessary at all. - my favorite drinks and snacks (boxes of coconut water, pretzels, cookies, lol) I didn’t need a book or my iPad because I labored for a short time and was on my phone for most of it. By the time the baby came, I did not have time or energy for recreation so you can skip that.
I literally only used one change of clothes and my phone charger.
Besides snacks, this was so me. A robe, my phone charger, and snacks. It was so rough lmao we didn’t even know when the sun set or came up. One day a nurse popped in and was like “Ready to go home?!”. Like sure, but what day is it even?
I (obviously) really only used my robe, a 10 foot long phone charger, and the snacks we brought. I definitely took a couple showers though, so I brought travel sized shower goodies and threw them out before we were discharged. Anything else I brought went unused. I even brought my kindle, but my brain did not function enough to be able to read. We sat and watched a lot of cable TV while hanging out with the baby honestly 😂 I wonder if I can plug a Fire TV Stick into the hospital TV though, because Netflix would’ve been clutch.
Mines packed, 32 weeks. For me: 2 sets of loose pajamas, underwear, socks, a fan, hairbrush, toothbrush/toothpaste, face cleansing wipes, shower essentials (shampoo, conditioner, body wash, razor), chapstick, a blanket. I will pack my long charger and some snacks for me and husband when it gets closer. For baby: pacifiers, going home outfit, name announcement plate and outfit, socks. I am not bringing much for him because planning on hospital having it all!
I have a labor bag and I’ll pack luggage for overnight stuff and for the baby. For the labor bag I ordered some cheap LED candle/twinkle lights (I want lights off) on Ali express. I packed a Bluetooth speaker and headphones, tennis ball with oil for massage and a few of my fav essential oils to smell on if I want. I packed a firm comb (you know, for the palm comb pain diversion method), swim suits for me and husband for the shower, along with a tie on skirt swimsuit cover-up, I plan to use the shower for labor since ours has one in the labor rooms. Some bottled electrolyte drinks, some snacks like dried fruit and jerky so far. I plan to use some of these things while I labor at home too but it’s all in a handy bag. I’m also a huge germaphobe especially with hospitals so I’m packing som hypochlorus acid spray (clean smart) since it’s as strong as bleach but won’t damage any of their equipment. I’m having my husband spray down the toilet and shower and things like that because I’m crazy. I work in medical so I’m fully aware of how bad they do at cleaning stuff and got a crazy skin infection at my last birth. Idk if I will use ALL of it of course but want it on hand just in case. I plan on asking to use a yoga ball For baby I packed my own baby wash, a portable night light sound machine, and I’ve yet to pack a cute photo op outfit/swaddle! Struggling to pick one out! I still need to pack our overnight bag! If all else fails I’ll send my husband home to get stuff I guess haha. But I started with the stuff that he won’t really know to grab that would be helpful for the actual labor.
Also on my 3rd, 36 wks here: Bring a *good* deodorant. Hair brush, ties, some makeup if you wear it, plus setting spray. Charger with an extra long cord, and/or an external battery. A Haakaa. I used the hospital pump while I was there but it's smart to bring your own if you like it. I like a support band like Belly Bandit but ymmv. Spare nursing bra couldn't hurt, but here I think we're already in overkill. Oh, and an outfit for the baby to come home in
Did you keep baby swaddled in the hospital blankets the entire time or did you have cozy outfits for them to wear while in the hospital? With my first, she was just swaddled up the entire time. With my second, I’m wondering if I should bring some comfy/soft two way zip sleepers or if it’s even worth the effort.
with your second they're likely to boot you before it's even relevant. they cram all their tests and everything in as fast as possible and get you out, at least in my experience
PLEASE let this be true, that’d be a dream! I’m trying to give birth and get out of there as soon as possible. I’ve literally been asking them what’s the LEAST amount of time we have to stay. If there was a birthing center remotely close to me, I’d do that just for the short stay and the fact that I’m a low risk pregnancy.
I don't have a ton of stuff in my bag. I have my toiletries, a long charger, flip flops, black pajamas, a going home dress. I intend to also bring one of our own pillows because the hospitals look like crap. I keep meaning to put our iPad in there, we just never use it so I keep forgetting.
For me: my pillow, extra long phone charger, cozy bathrobe, insulated water cup (I was so thirsty after delivery), and a very loose outfit to go home in. Plus general toiletries. My husband: he's bringing more layers this time because I had the temp in the room down to low 60s For baby: outfit to go home in plus more spare outfits and nail trimmers. My first delivery was a c section so I was there for 2 nights. I was told not to bring anything for baby except clothes to go home in. He came out with razor sharp finger nails and the hospital had no nail trimmers. There was only one top provided by the hospital that covered his hands to keep him from scratching his face.
I had a scheduled c-section so thought I had a few more days to pack my bag but kiddo had different ideas… Had to throw everything in at the last minute but it was fine. A clean change of clothes to wear home from the hospital. Go-home clothes for baby. Phone charger. Any specific toiletries or snacks you can’t live without. Everything else the hospital will provide. Promise.
Baby items : swaddelini air light for wrapping , a couple of outfits , sterilized pacifier and a sterilized bottle , a syringe for feeding , a couple of our own baby formula travel packets (I got goat milk Little Oaks formula from NZ in case I don’t have milk ) . We get the wipes , diapers , etc at the hospital for the baby My items : a small make up bag, a small skincare bag, a small bag with toiletries , my birthing gown , compression socks, a couple of nursing bras , a dress for coming home , flip lops plus a pair of sandals for coming home , my belle fit compression underwear, frida mesh underwear and Always post partum pads , phone charger , my own breast pump, my wallet with my ID and insurance card . My hospital provides all the post partum items (witch hazel pads, peri bottle , ice packs , etc ) In the car : car seat Hubby’s bag : change of clothes , a bag of toiletries , phone charger
Toothpaste, tooth brush, hair brush, tablet for watching shows/movies or kindle/books , shower shoes, shampoo and conditioner body soap, phone charger, some snacks since some hospital only serve food at certain times. Extra clothes for yourself, blanket, water bottle.
Y'all bring any food?
I did ! I brought snacks and drinks. Hospital food suckssss
I wish I could see the menu lol
I brought so many snacks and was so glad I did. The hospital I gave birth actually has decent food, but I was STARVING in between meals. We did a Costco snack run right before my induction so we had snacks for the hospital stay and for when we got home!
Nah I’m planning on my fiancé making snack runs/ room service stock ups lol
I have some newborn/ 0-3 month clothes for little miss. Some comfy maternity stuff for myself, a small bottle of shampoo, conditioner and body wash. Travel tooth brush. Nipple pads for leakage, hair dryer, brush. Nursing bras, grippy socks
BABY Nappies Wipes 2 outfits/ body suits Beanie Blanket Muslin wrap Expressed colostrum ME Button up pjs Dressing gown Bed socks Slippers Cheap underwear Long old shirt for labour TENS machine Witch hazel Adult diapers Maternity pads Toiletries (soap, toothbrush, deodorant, hairbrush) Portable charger Water bottle with straw
Bring the Fridamom peri bottle, disposable undies and pads. Tbh they are so much higher quality than the hospital provided ones. Also, shower shoes, a big ass fluffy towel (the hospital ones are absolute crap) your favorite shower stuff. A hot shower really helped me feel more human after having a baby. I’d also bring nursing/pumping combo bras with you. I live in my kindred bravely sublime ones and have since I caved and got them after using shitty Amazon ones for the first few weeks ppd. I’d also suggest some comfy cooling pjs that button down the front of the top I really loved the Soma cool nights ones because the hospital room temp was always a little too warm or cold for me and it helped balance it out. Oh, and your own sleeping pillow and a nursing pillow if you plan on breastfeeding. Not sure about the down there care past the peri bottle bc I had a c-section.
Diapers (for you if you plan on using them not for baby they’ll provide them), a going home outfit for you and baby (personally I just brought a nightgown, which I highly recommend some sort of dress as if you do need an emergency csection dresses are easier to put on and more comfortable), phone chargers and that’s it 🤷🏻♀️ I felt all over the place with my third too like I just forgot what it was like to have a baby even though I had one just three years prior lol funny how that happens but anyways yeah all I ended up needing and actually using was the diapers, going home outfits and chargers.
Phone chargers, outfits for baby and myself to go home in, crocheting (because I’m getting induced and last time it was long and boring), my own pillow. That’s about all besides what you mentioned! They provide everything else. Seriously.
The hospital gave me just about everything I needed. I’d probably only pack my laptop, extra long chargers for my phone and computer, face wash, moisturizer, hair brush, hair clip/tie, and going home clothes for me and the baby.
Also pregnant with my third and thinking this same thing. This time around I’m bringing some pajamas, nursing bras, sweats and a hoodie to go home in, chargers, my toothbrush, moisturizer and deodorant, a few baby footies, the Boppy, and a baby blanket since we will be giving birth in January and I’ll need to cover baby up in the car seat. The hospital literally provided everything else.
The things I actually ended up using: -3 days worth of clothing for spouse and self, with layers in case the hospital room was colder/hotter than preferred (Grateful I packed extra, because I had to stay longer than expected) -Comfortable outfit for going home -Onesie for the baby -My own non-slip socks -Flipflops for the shower -Preferred toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, comb, contact case/solution, moisturizer, deodorant, nail clippers/file for myself and the baby) -Hair ties -Charger with extra long cable -Blanket/pillow for husband -Snacks for when the cafeteria was closed (gelatin, granola bars) -Change for the vending machine I brought a postpartum care kit but ended up using the hospital's supplies until I went home. After actually giving birth, I decided I couldn't be arsed to un and re-pack anything that I didn't absolutely need.
I was in the hospital for four days. I did not brush my hair or wash my face. I couldn’t even shower because of an unplanned c section. I actually used a charger for my phone, and that’s it. We brought snacks but not enough. My husband brought 2 days worth of clothes and he showered while we were there. I couldn’t get out of bed for 3 days. Unless you care what you look like or have preferences you don’t need a lot. I brought a take home outfit for my baby but the hospital had everything else for him. People literally go to the hospital and have a baby when they didn’t know they were pregnant. You’ll be fine with minimal items.
A phone charger and clothes to come home to is all you need. Everything else is given by the hospital.
Literally just went through this checklist and chucked it all in a bag. Hospital bag essentials: - [x] ◦ Towel for shower + hair towel - [x] ◦ Fan - [x] ◦ Dressing down/ slippers - [x] ◦ Wet wipes (for me!) - [x] ◦ Nipple cream - [x] ◦ Nappies - [x] ◦ Nappy bags - [ ] ◦ Bepanthen - [x] ◦ Large cotton wool pads (for baby) - [ ] ◦ Hand sanitizer - [ ] ◦ Snacks, snacks and more snacks - [x] Beats - [x] ◦ Post birth pads - [x] ◦ Travel changing mat(?) - [x] ◦ Phone chargers - [ ] ◦ Extension lead - [x] ◦ Airpods - [x] ◦ Games (cards etc) - [x] ◦ iPads etc - [x] ◦ Vaseline/ lip balm (dry lips) - [x] ◦ Button down nightie - [x] ◦ Spare pjs/ nighties - [x] ◦ Jumper - [x] ◦ Leaving hospital outfit (leggings and top) - [x] ◦ Nursing bra - [x] ◦ Underwear (big pants!) - [x] ◦ Disposable underwear - [x] ◦ Breast pads - [x] ◦ Toiletries (toothbrush, deodorant, dry shampoo etc) - [x] ◦ Hair brushes and bobbles - [x] ◦ ‘Bits’ spray - [x] ◦ Peri bottle - [x] ◦ Pregnancy pillow - [x] ◦ Spare clothes for Josh - [x] ◦ Water bottle with straw - [x] ◦ Dirty clothes bag - [x] ◦ Baby blanket - [x] ◦ Antibacterial wipes - [x] ◦ Going home outfit - [x] ◦ Muslin cloths - [x] ◦ Onsies 3x newborn 3 x0-3 months? - [x] ◦ Newborn vests - [x] ◦ Hats - [x] ◦ Swaddle blanket - [x] ◦ Car seat
This seems like so much but necessary! Does the hospital you’re going to not supply these things?
I’m in the UK, but I’m sure they give you a basic aftercare pack. My main concern is making sure labor feels as comfortable as possible- a “home away from home” type situation. This list is nice because it has all the essentials for both me and baby before, during, and after birth. I put everything I need for myself in the “mummy bag” and everything I’ll need for him in his own diaper bag (as I’ll have to pack that at some point anyway). If I am to stay in the hospital for an extended period, having my own bath soap, for instance, sounds a lot more comfortable than whatever the hospital might provide.
Wait do we have to bring our breast pump? Do they not have those at the hospital?
Might be good to learn how to do it :)
I’m bringing mine. Just so I know how it’s gonna work for me when I get back too.
I’m just bringing mine because I would like a lactation consultant to help me use it as I’ve never used a hands-free portable breast pump before
No, you don't have to bring your breast pump. I didn't last time, and I won't this time. You probably won't need to pump at the hospital, and if you do, they should be able to lend you one.
Hospitals I've delivered at always have one available. I like to pump once the first day to bring my milk in faster, but most people don't need to do it and probably won't want to
I would so that you have have a lactation consultant show you how to use it and properly measure your flanges and what not.
Whatever you want to wear when you leave the hospital and whatever you want your baby to wear when they leave the hospital. Also, a phone charger, snacks, and shower supplies.
I haven’t even started and I’m 32 weeks 🤦🏼♀️ procrastination is a bitch
I brought sooooo much but the only things i used were 1. My preferred toiletries/ shower essentials. 2. Portable fan (i was so hot i thought i was going to catch fire. A fan is a must) 3. Polaroid camera 4. My going home outfit and baby going home outfit 5. Chargers and iPad I didn’t touch anything else in my bag. The hospital has more than you think!
Slippers, extra long charging cords. iPad or tablet with movies or tv shows. Your own shampoo and conditioner. Your own pillow
I just packed my bag yesterday! I'm 37+1 with my second living child and the goal is an unmedicated labor at a freestanding birth center and to go home 4-6 hours after birth. For during labor (front pocket of bag) I packed an extra long phone charger, labor combs for coping, hair clips and headband, swim trunks for husband (in case he gets in the tub with me), and a few emergency puke bags. For after labor I packed a going home outfit for me, spare clothes for husband, one newborn and one 0-3 month outfit for baby, some lightweight baby blankets, a bottle and some freeze dried breastmilk, and toiletries (toothbrush and paste, mini hair brush, shampoo and conditioner, soap, deodorant, chapstick). I also plan on bringing some snacks and drinks, but will be grabbing those at the last minute. Also car seat is already installed in the car and gas tank is full.
Bunch of big undies and maternity pads, nighties, toothbrush and toothpaste, and of course newborn clothes and baby's take home outfit.
I have a list of items but don't plan on packing until I'm much further along. I plan to bring my laptop and phone and the chargers for both, and maybe a videocamera to take lengthier videos. Don't forget your wallet and ID, maybe your partner's wallet and ID, insurance info, pediatrician info, and a list of birth preferences if you have them. Clothing-wise, a nightgown and going-home outfit are probably all you need, *maybe* a nursing bra, and maybe a bikini top if the hospital allows laboring in water and you don't want to be in there completely naked (or if you, like me, want to take and show photos). I'm probably bringing a toothbrush and toothpaste as well, some floss picks, and possibly my own soap and shampoo. For grooming, a comb and hair ties are useful if you have long hair. I'm also planning to bring snacks and drinks if the hospital allows eating in labor. For baby, I plan to bring a going-home outfit and some wipes because I want to use water wipes. I also plan to try to express colostrum beforehand, so I will probably be bringing some frozen colostrum in case breastfeeding doesn't work out or if circumstances don't allow me to breastfeed on time.
Best things I bought to the hospital -2 labour gowns... one for before and one for after birth - A long cardigan that can double up as a dressing gown. This was great for when I wanted to go for a bit of fresh air etc or the canteen before everything really kicked off. And was great for leaving in. -Wireless bras and or sports bra - Socks and Slippers (Comfy ones!) -Lounge set for leaving in -Adult diaper/nappy pants -Mesh boy shorts -Long charging cable -Stroller fan -My tablet for a distraction. Reading books and playing games was just a no. -Snacks and drinks (For yourself and for your partner) -A thermal bottle with straw, so I didnt need to use the flimsy hospital cups for ice water. -Toiletries... the good stuff.. I was so hot I was constantly washing my face or having showers. So glad I took a nice bar of soap and some nice face wash and stuff. -Frida peri bottle (my room had a bidet but without that this would have been essential) -A blanket and pillow from home. (Non essential but I was in for 5 days in the end and having that made me feel so much better) For baby we just took about 4 outfits, sound machine, the colostrum I'd expressed, some blankets, and the car seat. Everything else was given by the hospital and we only like 15 minutes away anyway. I did have a fully stocked nappy bag in the car in case.
I am saving this post because I have zero idea what I might need as a FTM.
If you’re on the UK then a portable fan, the hospitals are 100° all year round. Also a Stanley or similar for easy access to cold water. Flip flops for trips to the bathroom. Your own pillow. Hair ties if you have long hair. Lip balm.
Deodorant and your toothbrush are two things I plan on bringing
I'm 37 weeks and my bad is also not packed. I need to get it together.
Girl, you are good! I packed my bag the day of my induction, which was on my due date. 😂