I got the bag out of the closet today. Does that count as progress? I'm actually planning on getting the list I got from the birth center out tomorrow and doing some last minute shopping for some of the stuff so I should actually be done in the next few days hopefully.
I got the bag out of the closet today. Does that count as progress? I'm actually planning on getting the list I got from the birth center out tomorrow and doing some last minute shopping for some of the stuff so I should actually be done in the next few days hopefully.
Absolutely! In fact, you should probably put your feet up and celebrate with some cake for your accomplishment.
I pretty much fly by the seats of my pants for life so I'm basically unprepared. I have a few things in a bag but should really get some things together. I still don't even have our crib set up.
STM, all about the snacks and food because my hospital food wasn't cutting it last time plus sometimes I wanted something right then without DH having to leave to get it. I packed jerky, raw nuts, larabars, dried fruit, small packets of chips, and nursing cookies (basically just oatmeal cookies that are actually pretty healthy). I packed plenty so my visiting toddler and DH can have snacks too along with me that they don't have to wander the halls to get or drive away to grab a quick snack.
Anyway I guess I bought and packed a bit too early - because I started raiding the snacks out of it tonight...
As far as pacifiers last baby didn't take them. Hospital gave us one though the first day. Same hospital for this baby but they no longer give pacifiers.
Contents in the bag so far: Boppy (wished I had it last time) Snacks Easy slippers to easily walk the halls Toddler stay busy items when toddler comes to visit new sibling Take home outfit + one more simple outfit Custom newborn hat + custom blanket because it is cute (the blanket isn't needed and I might leave it here, but it is cute, the hospital provides hats and blankets for newborns) Nursing tank, maternity yoga pants, shower sandals, hygiene/bath items, colace, lanolin, disposable nursing pads Birth plan Signs for clear baby container that state our wishes baby be breastfed only
I went ahead a packed a pacifier just in case. My current dilemma is the boppy, what is everyone doing on that front? Worth bringing it?
My bag so far: travel size toiletries toothbrushes for me and H bag balm (for chapped lips) daily meds & prenatals for 4 days colace always infinity pads headband hair ties 1 nursing bra 1 nursing tank comfy oversized black pj pants black maternity yoga pants 2 pairs maternity underwear flip flops chambray button up 1 pair socks bamboobies nursing pads coconut oil
still need to pack/collect: Cell and charger insurance docs birth plan page from baby book for foot prints makeup robe (can't decide if it's worth buying one) boppy? extra nursing tanks/bras?
@LadySamLady I'm trying to decide if it's worth bringing the boppy, too!
So far I have:
Snacks and coconut drinks 2 nursing tanks 1 nursing bra (no underwire) 2 nightgowns Black pants 3 different outfits for baby (different sizes and layers) Clothes and swimsuit for DH Phone charger Small toiletries Depends Puppy pads and trash bags (for the car in case my water breaks).
I went ahead a packed a pacifier just in case. My current dilemma is the boppy, what is everyone doing on that front? Worth bringing it?
My bag so far: travel size toiletries toothbrushes for me and H bag balm (for chapped lips) daily meds & prenatals for 4 days colace always infinity pads headband hair ties 1 nursing bra 1 nursing tank comfy oversized black pj pants black maternity yoga pants 2 pairs maternity underwear flip flops chambray button up 1 pair socks bamboobies nursing pads coconut oil
still need to pack/collect: Cell and charger insurance docs birth plan page from baby book for foot prints makeup robe (can't decide if it's worth buying one) boppy? extra nursing tanks/bras?
I'm not taking a boppy. If I feel like I want it, dh can bring it with him the next day. He isn't allowed to stay at the hospital and needs to come home to feed the cat anyways, so I packed light and figure he can bring me anything I feel like I might need.
I went ahead a packed a pacifier just in case. My current dilemma is the boppy, what is everyone doing on that front? Worth bringing it?
My bag so far: travel size toiletries toothbrushes for me and H bag balm (for chapped lips) daily meds & prenatals for 4 days colace always infinity pads headband hair ties 1 nursing bra 1 nursing tank comfy oversized black pj pants black maternity yoga pants 2 pairs maternity underwear flip flops chambray button up 1 pair socks bamboobies nursing pads coconut oil
still need to pack/collect: Cell and charger insurance docs birth plan page from baby book for foot prints makeup robe (can't decide if it's worth buying one) boppy? extra nursing tanks/bras?
I brought my boppy and was glad I had it. I would skip the robe IMO, unless it's something that you usually wear at home and you feel comfortable in it. I don't know about other STM's, but I sweat so much after delivery, and then also had night sweats there for a while after. For me, an extra layer (like a robe, or even a long sleeved shirt) would have made me feel like I was on fire.
Just a few things to share as a STM based on what I've seen here and my own experiences (obviously this can vary based on the hospital/birthing center):
I'm bringing the boppy to sit on for the car ride home! Because, ow. So stash it in the car even if you don't think you'll need it in hospital.
The hospital provided onsies, hats, and Swaddle blankets for the time there, so don't stress about multiple days worth of clothing for LO (there will be poo, vomit, etc, so go ahead and dirty their stuff!).
DO bring a change of clothes for baby for the trip home in the event of the aforementioned messes occurring.
I would skip any robes, because you will likely be sweating like mad, so while your spouse will be freezing (have him pack a sweater/keep one in the car) you'll feel like it's hot as hades. Especially with a newborn attached to you.
Several people have mentioned pants/shorts pjs. I'd advise a nightgown/sleep tee instead (Victoria's Secret, Walmart, Target, whatever) because nurses will be coming in to check your nethers a TON, give you "massages" to help pass clots, bringing and changing ice packs etc. Having pants on means more movement, struggling to reposition, while already in pain with a nursing/sleeping baby in your arms. I do understand wanting something more than the hospital gown, so a sleep tee is a good compromise because it still covers your arse if you need to waddle to the bathroom while guests are visiting.
Even if you don't plan on nursing, bring some sort of sports bra/wireless bra because you do not want to clamp wires around your boobs at this point.
This may sound vain (and other people might not care), but I suggest throwing at least some concealer in your bag. Because there will be pictures, birth can be rough, and you aren't sleeping much (if at all). You'll feel just a bit more human (at least I did) if you don't look like you've lost a UFC match.
Also, ask a visiting friend/relative to swing by a grocery store or bakery en route to grab some cookies or something for the nurses. They appreciate the treats, you'll definitely want to thank them, and good will never hurts.
Just went to target today to get travel sized toiletries, some nursing tanks and bras, snacks, and a robe so I can start packing my bag! When I did my hospital tour the woman was surprised when the room she showed us had a hospital gown on it because she said almost no one now uses them, so I'm definitely packing my own robe so I don't need to worry about asking for one
Thanks for the motivation, you over-achieving non-slackers. I just got back from Target and picked up everything under the sun for my "go bag" as my husband calls it - everything from depends, to witch hazel wipes, to nursing sleep bras, breast pads, to travel shampoo.
Omg @Charla1224 when I read your list I thought you were packing for your mom and dad. I was like dang, you're gonna pack your dad's undies??
I'm so tired.
When it comes to my bag, I probably won't be packing until like 3 days before my due date lol. It will consist of something like this: robe/gown socks/slippers some clothes for both DH and I (seriously make sure your SO/DH brings comfy clothes/shoes) undies nursing bra travel sized toiletries nursing pads pads makeup brush and hair ties baby outfit or two pacifier blanket charger for phone all the snacks
I would say pack some dark colored clothes because during and after birth are really messy. Oh and bring something DH can entertain himself with: tablet, book, etc.
@Charla1224 I just threw my phone charger in my purse on the way out the door (along with glasses, since I wear contacts most of the time). DH has one at home and one at work, so he grabbed his and that was that.
This might be a silly question...but what snacks are you packing for DH?
Nothing. He wants snacks, he can pack his own snacks. I've got enough to take care of, and unlike me, he'll actually be able to leave and go get takeout if he wants.
This might be a silly question...but what snacks are you packing for DH?
Nothing. He wants snacks, he can pack his own snacks. I've got enough to take care of, and unlike me, he'll actually be able to leave and go get takeout if he wants.
Yup. I've told dh he has to pack his own stuff. He doesn't do it, oh well. I packed for myself and the baby. He is a grown man and can thrown some boxers and a clean shirt in a bag.
I just threw in a few protein bars for DH just in case. Last time, I packed a bunch of snacks that didn't get eaten because he just went and got food or my mom brought him food.
My hospital has a fancy cafe in it that's open 24 hours. Any snacks can come from there. That being said, I put change in my hospital bag (by change I mean dollars and quarters).
Been married since 2009. Unicornuate Uterus (yes I menstruate glitter) Several MCs DD born 2013 (our miracle "you can't have babies" baby!)
Loving all of the comments about DH needing to pack his own snacks. I received a text from my MIL the other day asking what DH's favorite snacks and refreshments were.... Since she didn't ask mine I can only imagine she is packing him a hospital snack bag.... In which we already told everyone they will not be at the hospital until after baby is born. This will be interesting lol.
This might be a silly question...but what snacks are you packing for DH?
I saw an idea I liked on Pinterest so I packed some of my husbands favorites with cheesy notes. His favorite candy bar is Bounty so I bought a few of those and put "you're Bounty be a great Dad!" He doesn't know I packed them though so he is still in charge of "his snacks,etc".
This might be a silly question...but what snacks are you packing for DH?
Nothing. He wants snacks, he can pack his own snacks. I've got enough to take care of, and unlike me, he'll actually be able to leave and go get takeout if he wants.
Yup. I've told dh he has to pack his own stuff. He doesn't do it, oh well. I packed for myself and the baby. He is a grown man and can thrown some boxers and a clean shirt in a bag.
Why are you ladies packing for DH? I feel like I am missing something? Is this because L & D is messy or are they actually sleeping over in the hospital?
Why are you ladies packing for DH? I feel like I am missing something? Is this because L & D is messy or are they actually sleeping over in the hospital?
MH is sleeping over. It's our first time so we don't know how long labor will actually be. The hospital we chose has a couch that turns into a bed also which is nice because we will have to stay for 2 days per hospital policy.
@LadySamLady Bring the robe, totally worth it. I liked being able to schlub around in a nursing bra and yoga pants and just be able to tie up the robe whenever visitors showed up. You will probably be sweating like crazy though, so bring something lightweight if you have it.
Random question: my birth center allows me to pack any snacks I want (mostly- they specify clear soups) and they have a microwave but no stove. They also mentioned that some places will deliver... the issue is, we're vegan and most of the food we eat is fresh fruits/veggies, rice, potatoes, pastas, and Mexican food. We're not really sure what snacks to pack or what foods we could store early that will still keep should I go to 41 weeks (I'm 37 right now) and we don't wanna come to the birth center with a bunch of groceries to pack into their fridge since we can only stay there 4-6 hours after birth. We know we'll probably bring premade miso soup, cut apples, probably cuties, as well as Gatorade and coconut water. I can't really think of anything else and I don't know how hungry I'll be during/after. Any tips/ideas?
Loving all of the comments about DH needing to pack his own snacks. I received a text from my MIL the other day asking what DH's favorite snacks and refreshments were.... Since she didn't ask mine I can only imagine she is packing him a hospital snack bag.... In which we already told everyone they will not be at the hospital until after baby is born. This will be interesting lol.
Oh dear Lord. Ask her why. Then report back as I am dying to know now too.
I am hoping she is just going to mail him a nice gift. Which it is really a jerk move to exclude you & your favorite snacks if that is the case.
Sounds like you might want to start replying to texts after some days, get her used to you not answering right away (in case you have baby and aren't able to get back immediately she doesn't run straight to hospital). You might want to register private, not tell anyone until you are ready for visitors, and in the case you already have a date and told hire a doula to kick entitled boundary stompers out to protect your birth experience and your baby.
I used the Boppy right after birth to breast feed in the hospital with DD. Also, I'm bringing a robe bc it's so important to get up and walk. Most of the time it's up and down the hospital hallway so instead of having to completely get dressed I've got a robe to wrap up in.
Been married since 2009. Unicornuate Uterus (yes I menstruate glitter) Several MCs DD born 2013 (our miracle "you can't have babies" baby!)
Random question: my birth center allows me to pack any snacks I want (mostly- they specify clear soups) and they have a microwave but no stove. They also mentioned that some places will deliver... the issue is, we're vegan and most of the food we eat is fresh fruits/veggies, rice, potatoes, pastas, and Mexican food. We're not really sure what snacks to pack or what foods we could store early that will still keep should I go to 41 weeks (I'm 37 right now) and we don't wanna come to the birth center with a bunch of groceries to pack into their fridge since we can only stay there 4-6 hours after birth. We know we'll probably bring premade miso soup, cut apples, probably cuties, as well as Gatorade and coconut water. I can't really think of anything else and I don't know how hungry I'll be during/after. Any tips/ideas?
That is so awesome. I wish I had the option to get to go home 4-6 hours after birth (c-section so that is not going to happen here). All of what you said sounds good. You could consider some nuts, dried fruit, jerky, larabar or two and maybe a small bag of your favorite chips. Nothing too big, just small amounts but at least you have a few options.
Random question: my birth center allows me to pack any snacks I want (mostly- they specify clear soups) and they have a microwave but no stove. They also mentioned that some places will deliver... the issue is, we're vegan and most of the food we eat is fresh fruits/veggies, rice, potatoes, pastas, and Mexican food. We're not really sure what snacks to pack or what foods we could store early that will still keep should I go to 41 weeks (I'm 37 right now) and we don't wanna come to the birth center with a bunch of groceries to pack into their fridge since we can only stay there 4-6 hours after birth. We know we'll probably bring premade miso soup, cut apples, probably cuties, as well as Gatorade and coconut water. I can't really think of anything else and I don't know how hungry I'll be during/after. Any tips/ideas?
That is so awesome. I wish I had the option to get to go home 4-6 hours after birth (c-section so that is not going to happen here). All of what you said sounds good. You could consider some nuts, dried fruit, jerky, larabar or two and maybe a small bag of your favorite chips. Nothing too big, just small amounts but at least you have a few options.
Thanks! I hope your c-section recovery time goes fast and easy
Random question: my birth center allows me to pack any snacks I want (mostly- they specify clear soups) and they have a microwave but no stove. They also mentioned that some places will deliver... the issue is, we're vegan and most of the food we eat is fresh fruits/veggies, rice, potatoes, pastas, and Mexican food. We're not really sure what snacks to pack or what foods we could store early that will still keep should I go to 41 weeks (I'm 37 right now) and we don't wanna come to the birth center with a bunch of groceries to pack into their fridge since we can only stay there 4-6 hours after birth. We know we'll probably bring premade miso soup, cut apples, probably cuties, as well as Gatorade and coconut water. I can't really think of anything else and I don't know how hungry I'll be during/after. Any tips/ideas?
Definitely bring yourself some carbs! From what I hear you may be STARVING after labor. When packing snacks I've been trying to think of things I want right after a marathon. Fruit is great but also rice cakes with nut butter, crackers and hummus, whatever floats your boat. A little carb/protein combo will prob be needed!
You ladies have been a fantastic influence on me! I already have most of Luna's stuff packed and will just have to make sure all the laundry for me is done since I know I just wore one of my favorite nursing tanks. Still need to pick my going home outfit, but I have a bunch of loose sundresses that will be perfect.
Oh, and I am having my son snuggle with one of the swaddles and a hand knit blanket from Luna's godmother. I have no idea if this is legit, but from fostering kittens I know you are supposed to have them sleep with a blanket that you then introduce to the resident cats and vice versa.
Uhm, a bit of advice - please pack your bags if you haven't yet! I am only 34 weeks and got admitted today - probably won't be delivering or having my csection with this stay, but I had to go back home and pack my bag and realised how much stuff I still need. Will make do with what I have with me and the rest will be bought by my mum or DH so is all fine. But packing definitely put a damper on how quickly I got to the hospital
Re: Hospital Bag
5.5.16 | 8.14.17 | 1.30.19
Anyway I guess I bought and packed a bit too early - because I started raiding the snacks out of it tonight...
Same hospital for this baby but they no longer give pacifiers.
Contents in the bag so far:
Boppy (wished I had it last time)
Snacks
Easy slippers to easily walk the halls
Toddler stay busy items when toddler comes to visit new sibling
Take home outfit + one more simple outfit
Custom newborn hat + custom blanket because it is cute (the blanket isn't needed and I might leave it here, but it is cute, the hospital provides hats and blankets for newborns)
Nursing tank, maternity yoga pants, shower sandals, hygiene/bath items, colace, lanolin, disposable nursing pads
Birth plan
Signs for clear baby container that state our wishes baby be breastfed only
Missing: camera, phone, charger, iPad
My bag so far:
travel size toiletries
toothbrushes for me and H
bag balm (for chapped lips)
daily meds & prenatals for 4 days
colace
always infinity pads
headband
hair ties
1 nursing bra
1 nursing tank
comfy oversized black pj pants
black maternity yoga pants
2 pairs maternity underwear
flip flops
chambray button up
1 pair socks
bamboobies nursing pads
coconut oil
For baby:
2 swaddle blankets
2 receiving blankets
2 outfits NB size
2 outfits 0-3 months size
2 hats
2 mittens
1 pair socks
2 headbands (girl needs options)
pacifier
still need to pack/collect:
Cell and charger
insurance docs
birth plan
page from baby book for foot prints
makeup
robe (can't decide if it's worth buying one)
boppy?
extra nursing tanks/bras?
So far I have:
Snacks and coconut drinks
2 nursing tanks
1 nursing bra (no underwire)
2 nightgowns
Black pants
3 different outfits for baby (different sizes and layers)
Clothes and swimsuit for DH
Phone charger
Small toiletries
Depends
Puppy pads and trash bags (for the car in case my water breaks).
Still need:
Camera
Maybe a light jacket?
Boppy?
I'm bringing the boppy to sit on for the car ride home! Because, ow. So stash it in the car even if you don't think you'll need it in hospital.
The hospital provided onsies, hats, and Swaddle blankets for the time there, so don't stress about multiple days worth of clothing for LO (there will be poo, vomit, etc, so go ahead and dirty their stuff!).
DO bring a change of clothes for baby for the trip home in the event of the aforementioned messes occurring.
I would skip any robes, because you will likely be sweating like mad, so while your spouse will be freezing (have him pack a sweater/keep one in the car) you'll feel like it's hot as hades. Especially with a newborn attached to you.
Several people have mentioned pants/shorts pjs. I'd advise a nightgown/sleep tee instead (Victoria's Secret, Walmart, Target, whatever) because nurses will be coming in to check your nethers a TON, give you "massages" to help pass clots, bringing and changing ice packs etc. Having pants on means more movement, struggling to reposition, while already in pain with a nursing/sleeping baby in your arms. I do understand wanting something more than the hospital gown, so a sleep tee is a good compromise because it still covers your arse if you need to waddle to the bathroom while guests are visiting.
Even if you don't plan on nursing, bring some sort of sports bra/wireless bra because you do not want to clamp wires around your boobs at this point.
This may sound vain (and other people might not care), but I suggest throwing at least some concealer in your bag. Because there will be pictures, birth can be rough, and you aren't sleeping much (if at all). You'll feel just a bit more human (at least I did) if you don't look like you've lost a UFC match.
Also, ask a visiting friend/relative to swing by a grocery store or bakery en route to grab some cookies or something for the nurses. They appreciate the treats, you'll definitely want to thank them, and good will never hurts.
My bag so far:
-slippers
-going home outfit
-toiletries for myself and DH
-pads
For baby:
-1 sleeper
-1 warm blanket
-diapers
I am less is more kind of person but i think i need to pack more stuff lol
Mom- L&D: light weight robe, shorts, nursing tank, headband, slippers
Dad- L&D: sweatpants, shirt, zippered jacket
Mom- postpartum: nightgown, nursing tank, yoga pants, zippered jacket, flip flops
Dad- postpartum: underwear, basketball shorts, 2 shirts, another pair of sweat pants, shower shoes
Mom- going home: dress, underwear, nursing bra
Baby: two blankets, a NB outfit, a 0-3 outfit
General: towel and toiletries
Need to figure out the phone charger situation
DD: 05/14/16
Now to actually put it all in a bag...
I'm so tired.
When it comes to my bag, I probably won't be packing until like 3 days before my due date lol. It will consist of something like this:
robe/gown
socks/slippers
some clothes for both DH and I (seriously make sure your SO/DH brings comfy clothes/shoes)
undies
nursing bra
travel sized toiletries
nursing pads
pads
makeup
brush and hair ties
baby outfit or two
pacifier
blanket
charger for phone
all the snacks
I would say pack some dark colored clothes because during and after birth are really messy. Oh and bring something DH can entertain himself with: tablet, book, etc.
Been married since 2009.
Unicornuate Uterus (yes I menstruate glitter)
Several MCs
DD born 2013 (our miracle "you can't have babies" baby!)
my birth center allows me to pack any snacks I want (mostly- they specify clear soups) and they have a microwave but no stove. They also mentioned that some places will deliver...
the issue is, we're vegan and most of the food we eat is fresh fruits/veggies, rice, potatoes, pastas, and Mexican food. We're not really sure what snacks to pack or what foods we could store early that will still keep should I go to 41 weeks (I'm 37 right now) and we don't wanna come to the birth center with a bunch of groceries to pack into their fridge since we can only stay there 4-6 hours after birth.
We know we'll probably bring premade miso soup, cut apples, probably cuties, as well as Gatorade and coconut water. I can't really think of anything else and I don't know how hungry I'll be during/after.
Any tips/ideas?
I am hoping she is just going to mail him a nice gift. Which it is really a jerk move to exclude you & your favorite snacks if that is the case.
Sounds like you might want to start replying to texts after some days, get her used to you not answering right away (in case you have baby and aren't able to get back immediately she doesn't run straight to hospital).
You might want to register private, not tell anyone until you are ready for visitors, and in the case you already have a date and told hire a doula to kick entitled boundary stompers out to protect your birth experience and your baby.
Been married since 2009.
Unicornuate Uterus (yes I menstruate glitter)
Several MCs
DD born 2013 (our miracle "you can't have babies" baby!)
Oh, and I am having my son snuggle with one of the swaddles and a hand knit blanket from Luna's godmother. I have no idea if this is legit, but from fostering kittens I know you are supposed to have them sleep with a blanket that you then introduce to the resident cats and vice versa.
So basically I am treating my children like cats.