For those who have thought ahead or had your babies... What would you recommend I be sure to ask or request at the hospital? I plan on making sure to see the lactation consultant as soon as possible to be sure I'm doing it right. My SIL made a great recommendation to write these things all down as I may forget them in all the excitement and I'm trying to get my thoughts together.
Thanks!
Re: Questions for hospital
I was glad we took the baby book this time. They were happy to stick his inky little footprints on anything we wanted! Also, this might go without saying, but don't forget to ask for your pain meds. At my hospital, if you didn't ask, they didn't really come give them to you, although they would come check and ask how you felt...stay on top of those!
Definitely ask for the lactation consultant...my hospital was supposed to send one by and never did. I figured I misunderstood and didn't want to ask about it, and then when my home care nurse came to check on me, she was shocked that I never saw one. I definitely could have used that consult, too.
I would just say ask anything at any time. Don't feel bad about remembering something later and calling your nurse in to come and talk to you - that is what they are there for. I asked about anything and everything that popped into my head and they were very happy to answer my questions.
Ask for pain meds before you think you will need them...I waited a bit too long and was VERY sorry I did.
Thank you everyone!!
I had heard about pain killers, but didn't realize it was common to receive them. I guess it would make sense, though, after what your body just went through!!!
Two things I'm glad I brought:
1. Depends disposable underwear - the hospital gave me disposable underwear and super thick pads, but they were uncomfortable and bulky and didn't absorb everything, especially when I was sleeping. I only brought two pairs of Depends with me (and had the rest of the package at home), but wish I had brought several more pairs
2. My breastfriend nursing pillow - I have a boppy pillow and the my brestfriend, but I'm finding that the my brestfriend is firmer and is better for breast feeding a small newborn. Getting her to latch in the hospital was really hard and having the right "equipment" - the pillow, made us both more comfortable.