Giving birth is magical, emotional, and incredible. In fact, insert just about any glowing adjective you’re bound to aptly describe the experience. But it’s also stressful, uncomfortable and draining so controlling the controllable is an important part of making sure that you look back on your child’s birth with only the fondest of memories.
You’ve probably already heard that most women will not experience their water breaking in one fell movie star swoop as it did for Charlotte in Sex and the City. Regardless of how much time you have in early labor, no one is logically thinking through what they will and will not need for the big event. If you’re like me, you’ll make a list, check it twice (or a dozen times) and set your mind to rest that that you’ll be as prepared as possible.
In that spirit, I’ve put together a few of what I consider indispensable items.
Comfortable Pajamas/Loungewear – Pack a couple changes of clothes that are easy to get on and off and comfortable to lay around in a hospital bed for a day or so. Another important factor to consider: easy boob access so you can nurse your new little peanut 😉 Obviously a no brainer here. And finally, manage your own expectations. Don’t fall into the trap of thinking you’ll be going home in your pre-pregnancy jeans. Instead, be practical – think stretchy and lose.
- I went with a button down sleepshirt and maternity leggings (remember you’re still going to have a belly!)
Nursing bra – Even if you’re not planning on nursing long term, you’ll want to give your little one the benefits of colostrum in the hospital. Moreover, if you are planning to nurse, you’re best served establishing your child’s latch and milk supply right away. This means frequent boob action. Again, don’t worry about aesthetics. Go with something that is comfortable. The first few days are about getting the hang of nursing. It’s tiring enough without having to mess with an uncomfortable bra or something that is stiff and in your child’s face.
- I went with a seamless bra that was soft and comfortable enough to sleep in but also provided some support.
Socks – Even the plushest birthing center can feel a bit sterile and cold. Better to play it safe and have something to keep you cozy warm.
- I love socks by stance because they offer a bit of much-needed compression post delivery!
Flip Flops – To be perfectly honest, there was VERY little moving around for me in the couple days following my child’s birth. That being said, you’ll want something easy to slip on and off should the [sometimes rare] opportunity to shower present itself or if you need to hustle down the hall for any necessary nursery.
- I’m always toting around my favorite havaianas.
Nipple Cream – A MUST. I don’t care how well your baby latches, the around the clock demands of your peanut are going to be a whole new sensation and you’ll want to have something available to help soothe and maintain the integrity of your girls.
- I loved the Zoe Organics Nipple Balm – the best part is you don’t have to worry about wiping it off before your child latches back on!
Chapstick – no explanation necessary – just have your favorite brand on hand.
- I’m currently loving L’OCCITANE Ultra Rich Lip Balm.
Snacks – lots, and lots, and lots of snacks. Depending on where you’re giving birth the food can be hit and miss. It’s also on a schedule. Unfortunately, you’re baby isn’t. What I found was that I was hungry and awake around the clock while feeding. Thus, a variety of snack options so you don’t get burnt out on your favorite protein bar or trail mix. Side note: pack extras for your partner as they’ll be up at all hours with you 😉
- If you’re up for some pre-baby baking, you could make some of my favorite lactation cookies and pack a bag!
Personal Hygiene Pads – The hospital will give you big ol’ granny panties and pads. I personally found them to be cumbersome. They were too thick and didn’t stay in place (again this could vary). I preferred to go with a ‘super’ absorbencies high quality feminine pad. The good ones are really absorptive but thin so you won’t feel like you have to waddle any more than you’re already doing 😉
- You can find a plethora of different sizes and absorbencies with most brands like always.
Scrunchie 🙂 – Don’t judge me. If you’re trying to avoid the hair tie band that shows up after hours in a rubber band then a scrunchie is the way to go. Trust me – you’ll want your hair up and out of your face during labor.
- You can find any color, size, pattern on Etsy these days!
Minimal pamper products – this is not about vanity and looking picture perfect. But you will appreciate having a few things from your normal routine to make you feel human. Some refreshing face/body wipes, along with a yummy toner spray or an ultra-hydrating lotion can have an enlivening effect. Below are some of my favorite staples for on the go!
Re-usable water bottle – Fluids are your new best friend. Labor, breastfeeding, and sleepless nights will leave you in need of more fluids, and if you don’t want to ask your partner to be running to the cafeteria every 15 minutes to refill your 4 oz paper cup you’ll want to bring a bottle!
- I like the Cold Cups that you can find at any corner Starbucks.
Nursing Pillow – this is optional. I didn’t have mine with me but in hindsight it would have been nice. Consider that more and more hospitals have lactation consultants on hand to offer advice. It would have been awesome to have our ‘at home set up’ at the hospital for guidance. But if you feel like you’re carrying around way too much stuff, it’s not a necessity.
- I could not do without My Breastfriend – having the strap all the way around provided some much appreciated back support.
