(XP) STM's - What's in your hospital bag?!

MissEm15 · November 2014

With my latest stint in the hospital and now being on bed rest at 28w, my DH and I think it might be smart to pack my hospital bag early. STM's.. what were you glad you packed, what did you wish you had, what did you bring for the babe(s)? If it makes a difference... I will most likely be delivering c/s & it will be def. be freezing here in the midwest.

TIA!

wirtlehm · November 2014

MissEm15 said:

With my latest stint in the hospital and now being on bed rest at 28w, my DH and I think it might be smart to pack my hospital bag early. STM's.. what were you glad you packed, what did you wish you had, what did you bring for the babe(s)? If it makes a difference... I will most likely be delivering c/s & it will be def. be freezing here in the midwest.
TIA!

Love tit only because I think this will be helpful! I'm sorry about the bed rest

take it easy lovely lady!

SaraL1175 · November 2014

I personally have only needed a basic toiletry bag and a going home outfit. I've done c sec and vbac, and both ways the childbirth and recovery were pretty messy. I prefer to get all that mess on the hospital stuff.

What I've always wanted is a huge burger and fries because the post-delivery stomach suddenly has room for a full meal, but never packed that in my labor bag, and to date no kind person has brought me one.

Nvywife · November 2014

Don't forget pj pants for hubby.

triplej9 · November 2014

ChickenOnSunday said:

C-section = 4 days in the hospital. So you want to be comfortable.

Bring your own pillows with a pillowcase other than white. You don't want them to take your cases when doing laundry.

Your first shower after a c/s is scary yet heavenly all at the same time. Bring your own shower supplies. Hospital grade stuff sucks.

Speaking of that shower...hospital towels are tiny and not absorbent. Bring one from home.

You are having twins, could go early, they could be in the NICU and that means walking the halls. Bring a bathrobe. Mine was huge and red and very recognizable. I didn't even have to buzz the door to get let on the NICU floor because of my robe.

Snacks were great to have in our room. We had a family room with food on the floor but I also wanted some of my own favorites. Especially those items packed with fiber to help with the first poo.

All great ideas for a c-section delivery, but especially YES to the toiletries and towels. My rubber soled slippers were a lifesaver as well.

I just died a little thinking about the first poo. Funny how I blocked that experience from my memory...

michelle142 · November 2014

I way overpacked the first time.

This time I'm planning on this:

Shampoo, Conditioner, Body Wash

My own towel (not white, I'll bring my brightly colored beach towel)

Hair dryer, brush, hair ties

Yoga pants, nursing tanks and zip-up hoodies

Several pairs of granny panties

Warm socks

Slippers with hard bottoms

Camera bag

Change of clothes and PJ's for DH

For baby - 2 potential going home outfits, 1 NB and 1 0-3 size

The rest of the time she'll be in the hospital clothes

We have a mini-fridge in room, so we'll bring bottled water and a few snacks as well

mamabisme · November 2014

This will be my third c-section but I haven't really required anything special, in the past. For my last 2 I just needed 2 comfy outfits (I was only in for 48 hrs each time), snacks, hygiene items (deodorant, soap, lotion, toothpaste and whatever hair/makeup stuff you think you'll want), nipple cream and nursing pads (if you plan to bf). I prefer yoga pants for after delivery but I know some c/s moms who prefer loose, casual dresses. I also know lots of c/s moms love those compression belts that some hospitals will give you after a c/s. I got one after my first and hated it but if you think you may like one you can always ask the hospital if they will provide one and pick one up if not.

lizzybean · November 2014

Hair ties, hair brush, hair bands.

Yoga pants, hoodie, loose tshirt

Fabulous new maternity/BFing jammies that I will live in while in the hospital

Nursing/sleeping bra

Sports bra and cotton skirt that Im wearing for delivery

Granny panties

Lip gloss!

HailsMom · November 2014

I don't think I have seen anyone else mention nursing tanks - and even if you aren't going to BF, you might want nipple pads because you might leak even if you aren't BFing.

Also - Swimsuit for dad - if you have the option of getting in the shower or tub while you are in labor, you might want DH in there with you and rather than him having to strip down, if he has some trunks to put on, it would go over better.

For baby- I am bringing baby wipes. Our hospital just had these little towels that you had to wet with water from the sink- they were stiff and difficult to use. I'm planning on bringing my own this time.

AnotherSun · November 2014

Something to do, books, dvds or a laptop. With my first I spent the night hooked to monitors before I was induced. I couldn't sleep and no one wanted to stay up with me and keep me company and there is only so many infomercials one can watch before going absolutely insane.

animalcrckr · November 2014

I am super low maintenance. With my 1st two, I showed up to the hospital without a bag. Both for different reasons, but I delivered the babies and then DH went home for my toothbrush and some clothes for baby and I to go home.

With #3, I did pack a bag. Camera, boppy, toiletries and going home clothes for me and baby. I prefer to wear the hospital gowns/robes since I seem to get everything really messy.

kerrigrooves · November 2014

same as PP:

Shampoo, Conditioner, Body Wash, face wash, mascara

towel

my own pillow & fav blanket

outfit to wear home & night gown nursing tanks

granny panties

Warm socks

Slippers and robe were awesome to have

a magazine and snacks

DH

pillow

Camera

PJs/toothbrush/undies

maltwin1 · November 2014

This is my list for this time. A few of these things weren't on the list last time that I wish I'd had and a few things I brought last time proved to be totally unnecessary are off the list.

Technology:
-cell phone: the camera is not on the list because we hardly used it. The phone photos made it easier to share photos with out of town family
-cell phone charger
-iPad: I was in labor for 14 hours or so and watching a movie after I'd gotten that epi would have been nice

Personal:
-favorite comfy blanket: I was not loving just the thing hospital blankets and I wish if had my stuff
-my own pillow: same as above
-cute nursing pajama set with robe for after delivery: once you can finally change into your own clothes you'll appreciate feeling a little special in a cute pj set. I just brought slouchy stuff last time and I regretted it
-make-up: you'll feel like a mess from your chest down, getting my face cute made me feel more normal
-One cute outfit for me to go home in: lots of photos that I'd rather not be wearing sweatpants in

Baby:
-Several outfits including hats: we forgot the hats last time and were snickered at leaving the hospital with DS still wearing the delivery hat
-Going home outfit: something warm and cute that we can snap him into the carseat in
-Nursing pillow

DH:
-comfy clothes for overnight at the hospital

mali3 · November 2014

Wow 4 days in hospital for csection? That blows! Each of mine have only been 2 nights, this 3rd will be two as well.

I bring snacks, reading material, cell phone cords, lap top, hair care stuff, body wash, robe, tanks, comfy pants.

Baby I bring gowns and blanket and hats and 1 going home outfit

We only live 10 mins from the hospital so thankfully if we forget something it's no biggie!

dontgiveupnomatterwhat · November 2014

I overpacked and ended up with a surprise csection...so I didn't get up much.
This is what I suggest:
I second the "bring your own towel" suggestion.
Don't plan to shave anything but maybe you armpits, I almost passed out trying to shave south and seeing all the dried blood...just no.
Shampoo/Conditioner/Wash
Lotion, CHAPSTICK!
Snacks....all your favorite snacks. You will crave your own food during a 3am feeding. The nurses will bring you drinks...I wouldn't pack bottled water unless you want something specific.
A Boppy.
Your own pillows/blanket (it felt good to have something like that from home).
Housecoat/slippers...SOCKS!
Maybe your own pjs but I stayed in a hospital gown the whole time. I was super uncomfortable from the csection.
Going home...a comfy maxi dress, or super oversized sweater, maternity leggings, and maybe slip on ugg style boots. (Although, I may just end up wearing pjs and a housecoat because we are going straight home.)
Baby: going home outfit.
Also, you may want to check on the brand of diapers your hospital uses.,.if you plan to use a different brand, you may want to bring your own...but I would totally mooch off the hospital on everything until you have to use your own stuff.
Also, make sure husband brings cash for parking, my AWESOME hospital didn't include free parking.

CdnFarmGirl08 · November 2014

Socks and slippers Anything technology related including chargers! I bought a cheap one from the dollar store last time and packed it ahead so I didn't forget. Snacks Clothes for or DH Shampoo/conditioner Clothes for you- I changed into yoga pants and a nursing tank and hoodie as soon as I was allowed. For baby I brought a few sleepers, a few receiving blankets, hat and blanket for covering car seat when we go home.

mandamoochie · November 2014

CdnFarmGirl08 said:
Socks and slippers
Anything technology related including chargers! I bought a cheap one from the dollar store last time
and packed it ahead so I didn't forget.
Snacks
Clothes for or DH
Shampoo/conditioner

Clothes for you- I changed into yoga pants and a nursing tank and hoodie as soon as I was allowed.

For baby I brought a few sleepers, a few receiving blankets, hat and blanket for covering car seat when we go home.

I completely over packed the first time around.. I feel like @cdnfarmgirl08 has a good list

Mrs. Zee · November 2014

This is super helpful, thanks for this! Does anyone have recommendations for comfy nursing bras/tops/pj's? I saw some medela ones on amazon but they didn't have the best reviews. Interested in something between a sports bra/nursing bra. Thanks!!

CdnFarmGirl08 · November 2014

mandamoochie said:

Socks and slippers Anything technology related including chargers! I bought a cheap one from the dollar store last time and packed it ahead so I didn't forget. Snacks Clothes for or DH Shampoo/conditioner Clothes for you- I changed into yoga pants and a nursing tank and hoodie as soon as I was allowed. For baby I brought a few sleepers, a few receiving blankets, hat and blanket for covering car seat when we go home.
I completely over packed the first time around.. I feel like @cdnfarmgirl08 has a good list

Haha. Thanks! I so overpacked the first time too. So much to carry out after (not that I did but I think DH made like 3 trips! And I have so much family come visit that I can just ask them if I forget something really important.

mandamoochie · November 2014

@mrs.zee I have 4 of of the MM sleep nursing bras. They were by far the most comfortable thing I found.. But it might depend on your build. I'm normally a C cup, but I could see if you have a larger cup possibly falling out.

edit: here's the link :https://www.motherhood.com/mobile/Product.asp?Product_Id=97575Z30361&MasterCategory_Id=MC29

HailsMom · November 2014

Mrs. Zee said:

This is super helpful, thanks for this! Does anyone have recommendations for comfy nursing bras/tops/pj's? I saw some medela ones on amazon but they didn't have the best reviews. Interested in something between a sports bra/nursing bra. Thanks!!

@mrs.zee I used nursing tanks mostly. They gave a fair amount of support and I liked having the belly coverage. My favorites were from Target.

twinklymama · November 2014

I agree with all the PP, and I packed those little mittens for baby since I didn't want to trim those sharp little nails until I was comfortable at home, and they scratch something fierce!

RedGiant · November 2014

Technology:

-cell phone, tablet, camera and chargers for all

Personal:

-2-3 nursing tank tops

-1 pair yoga/lounge pants for going home

-zip front hoodie

-socks and slippers

-flip flops for walking around (my slippers aren't grippy enough)

-toilettries: shampoo, conditioner, body wash, razor (for armpits), shave gel, hair product, makeup and hair ties, deodorant, CHAPSTICK

-Nursing pillow

-book(s)

-snacks

(I didn't bring a robe or PJs, I just wore the hospital gowns with my nursing tank tops since I didn't want to get my own stuff messy/bloody. Plus I had night sweats. I do agree the hospital towels aren't great, so maybe I'll throw in a colorful towel this time)

For baby:

-going home outfit (NB and/or 0-3 month size)

-hat

-blanket for car ride

For DH:

-PJs

-1-2 changes of clothes if he plans to spend the night there

vargasgurl · November 2014

BFing was a challenge as FTM so a nursing pillow could have been helpful Some comfortable pjs Robe Slippers Nursing cover if you have visitors ( I didn't have one it was awkward using a scarf) Nursing Tanks were great Snacks for sure Coming home outfit for baby Blanket to cover baby when you leave hospital if it's cold by you Or Car Seat Cover Car Seat Extra bag for any goodies you bring from hospital Your own toiletries Camera Chargers Cell Your Birth Plan if you have one printed out Insurance Cards *** agree hospital towels are kind of small bring your own *** my hospital gave me these mesh panties ... Look awful but very good after a c section .... I ended up taking those and the pads home. Yes you will need to use pads!!

hais_mommy · November 2014

I was just making my list with intentions of packing my bag tomorrow... One of the things I have brought with my last delivery was a family pic. I had a picture of my daughter next to me while I was in the hospital delivering my son. This time I already have a picture I have chosen of my DD and DS that I will take to deliver these two littles!!

kefttsc · November 2014

I've been compiling a list for some time now based on advice I've gotten from tons of people:

Insurance card
Recent doctor papers
App or chart for baby schedule keeping
Flip flops or slippers
Robe and pajamas
High waist underwear
Thick overnight pads
Bag for dirty clothes
Socks
Towel
Pillows from home with non white cases
Hair clips and bands
Lip balm
Makeup!
Hairbrush/blow dryer
Lotion
Nipple cream
Cell phone charger
Snacks
Notebook and pens
Camera with charger and extra memory card
Toothbrush
Clothes to wear home
Go home outfits for babies (2 each)
Face wipes
Empty duffle bag for giveaways
Movies or music

DH:
PJs
energy drinks
magazines
iPad
Phone and iPad chargers

chicagojackie · November 2014

Chapstick!!

Mrs. Zee · November 2014

My hospital recommended bringing an exercise ball to bounce around on, has anyone else brought one or had this recommended?

psychobutthead · November 2014

I bookmarked this page. I think these are all awesome ideas even if you don't have a c-section.

Ladies what are you all planning on bringing for lo to the hospital?

lizzybean · November 2014

kcrosem said:

Hair ties, hair brush, hair bands.
Yoga pants, hoodie, loose tshirt
Fabulous new maternity/BFing jammies that I will live in while in the hospital
Nursing/sleeping bra
Sports bra and cotton skirt that Im wearing for delivery
Granny panties
Lip gloss!
@lizzybean‌, where did/are you getting your fancy pj's? I am looking for some. I haven't gotten through this entire thread yet, but I haven't seen: Headphones I am debating on my own soap because I hate the hospital stuff Oh and a friend that just has a c-section said to make sure ahead of time that at home you have places that you can reach to plug in your cell phone or whatever that are at a height you don't have to bend over to plug in.

I got mine from Motherhood Maternity last time, but I looked online and can't find anything like the ones that I got. They have an elastic waist bottom, and a cowl neck on the top, which is perfect for nursing while wearing a nursing bra.

t8keepr03 · November 2014

I stayed in a hospital gown for the first night since DD was born in the evening. I had 0 energy to shower so I waited until morning. That was glorious. I had my own soap, shampoo, etc. toothbrush and toothpaste. Also, huge overnight pads are a MUST! I wasn't a fan of the pads the hospital provided. I did enjoy the mesh panties they give you though. Very comfy. After, I showered I lived in a brand new pair of comfy pajamas that was nursing friendly. I also brought a robe and flip flops to walk the hallway in. I wore yoga pants and a maternity shirt home. I had several pair of granny panties and I'm pretty sure I just threw a few away. I had my Boppy pillow and that was a must to nurse. For DD I just let her wear hospital shirts until we went home. So I brought 2 going home outfits in newborn and 3 month size. I brought a few blankets and hats. Snacks were a must. I didn't mind the hospitals towel or pillows so I guess that depends on your hospital and you. I just didn't want to have to wash a bunch of stuff when we got home. I really tried not to pack much. Oh I think I took mascara but no other make up. I am not sure what my DH packed as that was his own bag and job. He stayed with me in the hospital so he had clothes and toiletries as well.

Sahara6971 · November 2014

I never wore my own pj's that I packed because there was lots of leaking going on. Slippers or flip flops are a must for going home (your feet might swell). Lip balm, iPad, and boppy are all a must too. Outfit for mom and baby to go home in. Eta: Makeup and tweezers.

michelle142 · November 2014

Mrs. Zee said:

This is super helpful, thanks for this! Does anyone have recommendations for comfy nursing bras/tops/pj's? I saw some medela ones on amazon but they didn't have the best reviews. Interested in something between a sports bra/nursing bra. Thanks!!

I have 5 Target nursing tanks. Love them.

Beth.1212 · November 2014

Here's my rough list for this time. Last time I overpacked. Some women find some things great that others never use (ex. a towel and pillow from home). I'm not expecting a C-section, so you may need slightly different things from me.

Wear:
maternity skirt
nursing bra
light shirt
sweatshirt / fleece (zip up front)
wedding ring
stud earrings
coat
sneakers

Toiletries:
Toothbrush, flosser
Brush
Basic makeup (though I probably won't use it)
Couple chapt sticks

Hand lotion
Vitamin pills
Toothpaste
Elastics, clips, headbands
Deodorant
Eyeglass cleaner
Shampoo
Conditioner
Face soap
Fiber pills (I take these regularly, you probably don't need this)

Clothing:
extra nursing bra
4 pairs white socks
4 pairs undies that can get ruined (I always bring extra socks and undies when I pack for any trip)
robe
Nursing nightgown
Open front/zip sweater / sweatshirt
slip on shoes (b/c the thought of walking around the room in my socks makes me squirm)
2 nursing tanks/tops
2 pairs yoga/sweat pants

Other:
Kindle
Ipod
Headphones
Wallet
Prescription sunglasses (I would need these if I got a migraine, you probably don't need)
Cell phone and charger
Camera and spare batteries
Lanisoh
Birthing ball (because I have a nice big one and I know where it's been)
2 Boxes chocolates (for nursing staff)
Trail mix

DH:
Athletic shorts for DH (to sleep in if needed)
Change of clothes for DH
Spare toothbrush for DH
Comb

Baby:
Going home outfit for baby (inc. t-shirt, warm top/pants or sleeper)
Blanket for baby
Hat, socks for baby
Carseat cover
Carseat

Beth.1212 · November 2014

Also, find out what your hospital provides. Mine has food and drinks on hand 24/7 (juice, tea, crackers, peanut butter, basic stuff) so I don't really need much of that. They'll provide diapers, wipes, tee shirts for while LO is there (though they stay at the hospital so I need a going home outfit), swaddling blankets for while LO is there, heavy duty pads for bleeding, disposable underwear for when the bleeding is bad, relief supplies for nursing (ex. gel pads), etc.

MissEm15 · November 2014

Thank you everyone!! This has helped so much!!!

wintersong139 · November 2014

Wow, my hospital bag list is now done. Thanks, everyone!

tropicbreeze · November 2014

This was a super helpful post. I ran out to walmart today and grabbed some supplies to pack because I'm sure after next week I won't want to be anywhere near that place.

ETA: I also have contacts, eye drops and glasses on my list.

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