When I took Bradley Method Birthing classe the birth of my first child, Linley - the instructor suggested we wait until the contractions started to pack our hospital bag. The thought was that it would force us to take our time laboring at home, and give us something to do before rushing off to the hospital. I spent more than 33 hours in labor with Linley - and had plenty of time to pack a hospital bag.
A month or so before my due date with my second, and in need of a bit of a refresher on what to take to the hospital - I started browsing the web. I found some good lists, and took notes - but all of them seemed to include items I knew I'd never use.
I was going to be so prepared with my second, but for some reason - I never packed my hospital bag. Part of me thought I could do it while I labored at home again, and part of me was so frustrated that I was still pregnant 7 days after my due date that I checked out. I didn't even want to think about it. Bad idea.
My labor with Price lasted only 7 hours and my contractions were strong and steady the entire time. I was in no position to pack a hospital bag - so I didn't. My mom grabbed a pile of stuff I had set on the table in my bedroom as we rushed out the door - and my sister rummaged through my house to bring me the rest of the things I needed.
This is a pretty condensed list. Other lists suggest taking music, movies, and magazines. Others suggest taking snacks (I never have much of an appetite after I deliver, and the hospital brings meals and snacks) and things to keep you busy (I usually can only think about getting some sleep and my new baby). If you're getting an epidural you may want those things to pass the time - but in my experience you only really need a few essentials ...
Camera
There will be so much to document while you're at the hospital. Designate someone to take pictures so they get taken. Tell that person what kinds of pictures you want, maybe even make a list of the shots you'd like them to take so they don't miss anything.
Robe
I personally like wearing the hospital gown while I'm at the hospital: you don't have to worry about it getting dirty (which lets face it, happens because of what happens after birth) and it's comfortable and allows for easy access - for nurse checks and for breastfeeding. A robe is nice to put over the gown if you have visitors or if you leave your room.Nightgown
If you want to wear something other than the hospital gown, I'd suggest a nightgown - and one with buttons so you can breastfeed. For the first few days, I don't like to wear pants - but that's just me.
Slip On Shoes
For the same reason I wear the hospital gown, I wear the hospital socks. Get them dirty, not your own - but it is nice to have a pair of slip on shoes if you leave the room, and even flip flops for the shower.
Blanket
My sister-in-law gave me a blanket to take to the hospital - and it came in so handy. It was much better than the cardboard blankets they have there.
Toiletries
Pack a good shampoo, conditioner, and soap. I wanted to freshen up afterward, and having good smelling shampoo, conditioner, and soap made me feel better. I always like having good lotion - and vaseline for my lips. My toiletry bag also included makeup, a hair tie, a brush, a blow dryer, my straightening iron, deodorant, my toothbrush, and toothpaste.
Laptop/Chargers
Darin and I watched some tv shows at night, and I used my computer for a short minute to update my blog while I was at the hospital. We were both on our phones a lot, so keep your chargers handy.
Boppy
I've never actually taken this to the hospital, but I'm including it on the list because it makes breastfeeding so much easier and comfortable.
Lanolin
They'll give you this at the hospital if you request it, then charge you an arm and a leg for it later. I'd suggest buying a tube before hand. Breastfeeding can make your nipples really sore for the first week (after that it gets better) and lanolin really saves the day.
Nursing Cover
This comes in handy when you have visitors.
Outfit(or 2)for Baby
I'd suggest something warm and something soft. This of course would include a cute hat or bows - and I always like to have a matching blanket to go with.
Outfit for Mom
I've always struggled in this area too. With both babies, I ended up wearing my nightgown home. What a fashion statement right? I just wasn't up for clothes yet. If I was more prepared, I'd spend more time finding an actual piece of comfortable clothing to wear home.
Nursing Bra
Your milk probably won't come in while you're at the hospital, but you'll want to have a nursing bra to wear home.
Infant Car Seat
For Baby 1 - we had the infant car seat installed and ready to go in the car. With Baby 2 - we totally forgot it at home, and my husband had to go home and get it later. Have it ready and in your car - or you won't be going anywhere.
Those are what I'd say are the essentials. Add or subtract items as needed. Everyone is different.
The hospital usually provides diapers and wipes for baby and disposable underwear and pads for mom - and don't forget about our husband. He will of course need his own bag of things. A change of clothes, toiletries, a pillow and blanket, a computer, etc.
Hope this helps make packing easier.
