The exciting time of packing the hospital bag has arrived, but what to put in?
This (as medial as it may seem to some) is actually quite an important task. You don't want to end up lugging a trunk with everything but the kitchen sink but you also don't want to have to send the hubby to pick up anything you may have forgotten, because no matter how well you describe the item or how many pictures you show him or even if you draw up a treasure-like map with a big X marked out, he will 99% of the time get it wrong, so it's best to be prepared.
I have listed some vital items for a labour/birth hospital bag..
Hair ties/Head Band
When you're labouring you DO NOT want hair in your face/mouth so it's best to chuck in multiple headbands and hair ties just in case that one thats always on your wrist decides to snap in two or run away.
Snacks/Drinks
Although you might not feel like eating a whole meal, having candy/gum/chocolate/nut mix to snack on will keep your energy levels up, and saves you from the dreaded 'hospital food'. You'll also be doing a lot of sweating so its good to bring along your favourite drink e.g. coconut water, vitamin water (my favourite is Glaceau), or even tea bags for afterwards
Birth inspiration
By this, I mean anything that will keep you going when things get tough
My birth inspiration includes..
A photo of baby from the ultrasound
Birth Mantras
Birth visualisation
My favourite songs loaded up on my iPod
Camera/camera charger/batteries
Make sure you appoint someone to snap those first moments when bub is in your arms, they may not be the most graceful pictures but they will be the ones you cherish for the years to come!
Smelly Stuff
Aromatherapy can be great during labour, I have included some of my favourite oils (Perfect Potion). Although you should bring along a cloth or rag to put the oil on rather then burning it, as you may decide to don't want the smell anymore and it can be hard to get rid of.
Underwear
Do not pack your favourite silk, lacy ones that you save for special occasions.
Big, loose, laundry-day, granny panties.
Especially if you need stitches or have a caesarean section, you will not want tight knickers. You can just buy a pack of cheap ones that you'll throw away in a few weeks.
Toiletries
Deodorant, toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner & lip balm (for dry lips during labour).
It is best not to wear perfume for the first few weeks so that baby can get accustomed to your natural 'scent'.
Natural medicines/pain relief
I have packed natural medicines (that can be prescribed or prepared by a homeopath or naturopath).
I also packed some massage oil (get it while you can).
Most hospitals will be able to provide you with heat and ice packs on the day
Happy birthing!
Anything I've forgotten or you found useful?
This (as medial as it may seem to some) is actually quite an important task. You don't want to end up lugging a trunk with everything but the kitchen sink but you also don't want to have to send the hubby to pick up anything you may have forgotten, because no matter how well you describe the item or how many pictures you show him or even if you draw up a treasure-like map with a big X marked out, he will 99% of the time get it wrong, so it's best to be prepared.
I have listed some vital items for a labour/birth hospital bag..
Hair ties/Head Band
When you're labouring you DO NOT want hair in your face/mouth so it's best to chuck in multiple headbands and hair ties just in case that one thats always on your wrist decides to snap in two or run away.
Snacks/Drinks
Although you might not feel like eating a whole meal, having candy/gum/chocolate/nut mix to snack on will keep your energy levels up, and saves you from the dreaded 'hospital food'. You'll also be doing a lot of sweating so its good to bring along your favourite drink e.g. coconut water, vitamin water (my favourite is Glaceau), or even tea bags for afterwards
Birth inspiration
By this, I mean anything that will keep you going when things get tough
My birth inspiration includes..
A photo of baby from the ultrasound
Birth Mantras
Birth visualisation
My favourite songs loaded up on my iPod
Camera/camera charger/batteries
Make sure you appoint someone to snap those first moments when bub is in your arms, they may not be the most graceful pictures but they will be the ones you cherish for the years to come!
Smelly Stuff
Aromatherapy can be great during labour, I have included some of my favourite oils (Perfect Potion). Although you should bring along a cloth or rag to put the oil on rather then burning it, as you may decide to don't want the smell anymore and it can be hard to get rid of.
Underwear
Do not pack your favourite silk, lacy ones that you save for special occasions.
Big, loose, laundry-day, granny panties.
Especially if you need stitches or have a caesarean section, you will not want tight knickers. You can just buy a pack of cheap ones that you'll throw away in a few weeks.
Toiletries
Deodorant, toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner & lip balm (for dry lips during labour).
It is best not to wear perfume for the first few weeks so that baby can get accustomed to your natural 'scent'.
Natural medicines/pain relief
I have packed natural medicines (that can be prescribed or prepared by a homeopath or naturopath).
I also packed some massage oil (get it while you can).
Most hospitals will be able to provide you with heat and ice packs on the day
Happy birthing!
Anything I've forgotten or you found useful?