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Packing for the Hospital
By Sarah Lindstrom
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Packing a bag for the hospital can be a daunting task. How on earth are you supposed to know everything you're going to want to have with you for those three days? I did not have a bag packed when my water broke, so take it from someone who knows - pack early. You never know when you're going to have to leave for the hospital. Even if you don't think it's necessary to start packing an actual bag, at least start a list of things you'll want to bring. If you're trying to pack right after your water breaks, you're not going to remember everything you want and your husband won't be able to guess what to bring. You might only be in the hospital for a few days, but there are a few things you are definitely going to want to have with you.
1. Chapstick. Multiple tubes of chapstick. I'm putting this as number one because there was nothing that turned out to be more important than chapstick while I was in the hospital. I had the foresight to pack a couple tubes but not the presence of mind to ask for it during labor. Boy was I sorry. My lips were chapped for weeks afterwards, no matter how liberally I later applied it. I would pack at least two because they have a nasty habit of getting lost.
2. Deodorant. You will work hard during labor. Enough said.
3. Shampoo, body wash and facial cleansers. In my rush to get to the hospital, I forgot to pack shampoo and wash. I later assumed the hospital would have some for me to use. When it came time for my first shower, my nurse handed me a bar of soap and a towel. I sent my husband home for my toiletries and he came back with every bottle I had in the shower, including my loofah. I laughed at his enthusiasm, but let me tell you, when I got into the shower and had all my products, it made me feel better than anything else had. I would recommend getting travel size bottles of things that you'll want. It'll take up less room and if they get left behind you're not out an entire bottle.
4. Nursing tank tops or bras and nursing pads. I prefer the tank tops, but it's just a matter of preference. These have turned out to be a lifesaver. You can discreetly unfold one side without having to lift an entire shirt off, exposing your still swollen tummy. Nursing pads are a must. You're going to leak and unless you want to change every couple of hours, you need these.
5. Bathrobe, socks and slippers. You will want to get out of your room every once in a while and walk around. Hospitals can be chilly and it's nice to have your own things to wrap up in.
6. Maternity outfit for you and layette for baby to wear home. Spoiler alert: you aren't going to fit into your old clothes right away. Pack comfy, loose clothing to wear home. Also pack an outfit for your baby for the hospital photo and to wear home.
7. Music, cards, books. You may have some time to kill during labor depending on how things are progressing. Bring things to keep your mind off the discomfort and relax you.
8. Snacks for your partner. I know it'll be difficult watching him eat while your stomach growls, but he'll be more useful to you if he's not hungry and grouchy.
9. Camera. Never in your life will you want to take more pictures.
10. Phone numbers of people to alert. My husband was sending play-by-play text messages during my labor. Please don't do that, but there are people you'll want to share the good news with. Bring the numbers with you and then delegate that task to someone else. You have more important things to focus on.
This is by no means a comprehensive list but it will at least get you started. Obviously, make adjustments according to your individual needs and requirements. If you're not sure whether or not to bring something, just pack it. You're going to be slightly uncomfortable during your stay at the hospital and anything you can have with you to add to your comfort will be well worth it.
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