I know you want to be prepared, but this is definitely one of those times you need a lot less than you think.
Below are items that I either packed and didn’t use, or I seriously considered packing and am thankful I didn’t.
1. Multiple outfits for you
I lived in the hospital gown and the nursing gown I brought with me (I highly recommend the Frida Mom Deliver and Nursing Gown for after labor or at least a comfortable robe).
Skin to skin was supremely important to me, especially because I was breastfeeding.
The thought of wanting to put on sweats and a t-shirt let alone a super cute outfit or pajamas never crossed my mind. Not once.
It actually would have been a pain in my opinion since the staff regularly checked my vagina to be sure I was healing and not bleeding excessively (this was one of those things no one ever told me, though it makes sense when you think about it).
2. Baby hygiene products
The hospital will provide you with everything you need including wipes, diapers, brush, comb, shampoo, bulb syringe, etc.
3. Perineal spray, tucks pads, or homemade padsicles
These were all provided by the hospital in some form or another.
4. Nipple Cream
sa Unless you have a specific one you prefer. Again, this was provided by the hospital (very small samples).
I would recommend asking for nipple cream and applying it early on in your breastfeeding journey.
Do NOT wait until it hurts!
5. Birth Plan
I do think a birth plan is a great idea but you had better believe I knew it by heart.
Also, the staff did not ask for it once.
They asked permission, verbal or written, before any medical procedure and also before non-medical items that were on my list, like not giving a pacifier. I had opportunities to ask for what I did or didn’t want throughout.
I still laugh at myself that I brought two sleeve protected copies in a folder.
6. Peribottle
You guessed it…the hospital provided one.
I do think it’s handy to have a backup at home though, especially if you have more than one bathroom because you will not want to be caught with your pants down, so to speak, without one!
7. Computer/ipad/magazine/cards/entertainment
I’m sure I glanced at my phone a time or two and I did have the tv on at times but never, did I EVER think “gosh I’m bored” and regret not bringing a book or cards.
8. Makeup
I packed it thinking I might take photos like some of those gorgeous Instagram moms but nope. I was too tired, sore and enthralled by my sweet new babe.
9. Straightener and blow dryer
Same as above!
10. Stool softener
Provided by the hospital and I was given a script to take home.
11. Maxi pads
The hospital will provide the most ginormous ones you’ve ever seen. I didn’t even realize that’s what they were for the first day I was there because they were THAT big!
I did buy the large purple overnight Always brand pads for home and packed a couple unnecessarily.
You’ll definitely want those at home on standby though.
12. Nursing pads
I personally did not need them whatsoever while in the hospital. I really didn’t use nearly as many as I thought I would the entire time I was breastfeeding to be honest.
13. Shampoo/conditioner/body wash/lotion
The hospital provided some very basic and unexciting hygiene products. Did I love them? No. Would I pack my own if I have another baby? Also no.
14. An asinine amount of snacks
I don’t know why I thought we needed enough snacks to feed the entire labor ward. A couple of snacks are a great idea. Two gallon sized bags full? So unnecessary.
One last reminder...
What goes in, must come out.
Every item you drag up to your room will need to come back out, and you’ll have the addition of your newborn in tow.
