To pack, or not to pack? That is the question!.........
Hey there Mamas!
Today we’re here to chat with you all about the NECESSARY items to bring along to the hospital or birthing center! As mom’s ourselves, we have learned what’s truly essential vs what you don’t end up unpacking at all. Of course everyone’s list may vary, but these are some of the things that we feel all Mama’s should have packed and ready to go for when baby chooses to make their arrival!
1. Your Own Pillow
This is a definite MUST have. Labor isn't like going to the spa. You're going to be pretty pooped afterwards! Having your own pillow isn't just about comfort physically, it's about having something that makes you feel more at home. See our next item for another "homey" suggestion to help you remain at ease.
It's always nice to have something reassuring nearby when in labor/postpartum. Choose something special to you; whether it be a robe, a picture, ect. Bring it along for the journey! Many mom's find it helpful to have an item to "focus" on during pushing. Though this isn't everyone's cup of tea, it's something to consider! One of our favorite items is linked by clicking the title or picture.
You're going to want this! Birthing facilities do not provide these on hand. Nobody wants to be worried about stinky breath when loved ones are coming in to meet your new arrival...yikes! Be sure to pack an extra set too (let's be honest, sometimes our partners can be forgetful about these small things!) For convenience, we have linked some options for you. Access the link by clicking the title or picture.
4. Prescriptions
If you or your partner take any daily prescription medications, pack those up. You don't want to feel stressed about forgetting the little things. Also, if you have been taking a prenatal (we hope!) , continue to take that as well!
Consider comfortable clothing for after baby is born. It is a good idea to bring stretchy, breathable attire. We kindly suggest darker bottoms (bleeding happens ladies, and sometimes we aren't accustomed to just how much our bodies may leak after laboring). Bring along a favorite robe too! These are awesome for wearing over nursing tanks/nightgowns if you don't feel like completely getting dressed and ready. When considering sizing, it is usually safe to pack pieces that fit you when you were around 5-6 months pregnant. Though baby is out in the world, you will very likely still have a bump. One of our favorite items is linked by clicking the title or picture.
6. Snacks
Some great munchies are a must! Plan to bring things that will help keep your energy levels up. We suggest protein balls (homemade ones are AWESOME! Recipe to come in posts ahead - stay tuned!). We also recommend a sweet treat. Try freezing seedless grapes. They are like imitation ice chips for chewing on, but they give your body a boost of nourishment instead of just water.
Though many hospitals/birthing centers will provide you with a large water bottle upon your admission, it is always smart to bring your own just in case. Also, bringing along your own will help you stay hydrated en route to the birthing facility of your choosing. Remember to stick with BPA free! If the center provides you with your own - your partner will have something ready to help keep them hydrated along the way. Supporting someone in labor is a big job too! For convenience, we have linked some options for you. Access the link by clicking the title or picture.
8. Toiletries
It's always a good idea to bring any toiletries you may need. We highly suggest bringing your own: Shampoo/Conditioner/Body wash Hair accessories (brush, ties, headbands - these are awesome during laboring) Deodarant Razors for shaving (if you prefer) It is nice to freshen up after the laboring process is complete and a vast majority of birthing facilities do not carry these items in the labor/delivery department. You may be able to find some of them in a "gift shop", but we just recommend packing your own to be safe!
9. Phone/Phone Charger
Of COURSE you are going to be needing your cellphone! Grandmas & Grandpas, Aunts & Uncles, best friends, you name it, they are all going to be wanting updates on how your labor is progressing. Even if you should choose to keep the fact that you are laboring private between you and your partner, you'll need to have a quick and easy way to send out a picture of your new pride & joy to family and friends once he/she has arrived! Snap a billion pictures!!! You won't regret it.
Reminder: make sure your phone has PLENTY of memory space. You don't want a notification that your "device is full". And don't forget your charger too!
10. Camera/Camera Charger
This is an additional item than many parents like to bring along. Now-a-days, most smartphones have a fairly capable camera. However, sometimes a notification pop up, call, ect. can come in during the most inoportune moment! You don't want to miss anything special because Facebook is reminding you that it's your friend's birthday! Haha. As with your phone, be sure you have plenty of memory space and a full battery too! Bring along the charger just in case. Labor can get long! One of our favorite items is linked by clicking the title or picture.
Get ready to jam! No, but seriously. Music has the power to not only motivate you during labor, but to comfort you as well. Find a song that means something special to you. Perhaps it is something that you have been singing to your little one while they grow in your belly. Or maybe it is a special song for you and your partner! Whether you choose to listen to a specific tune, or just soothing sounds from nature, packing along a speaker is something you won't regret.
Stay tuned for our playlist blog to get some great ideas! One of our favorite items is linked by clicking the title or picture.
Oils have so many uses for labor and postpartum care. Topical, aromatherapy, comforting bath soaks, you name it! When using for aromatherapy, try gently placing a small amount under your nose or in a diffuser (be sure to use safe grade for babies that is diluted in fractionated coconut oil). A little goes a long ways! One of our favorite brands for oils is Pure. The purity of these products is something we have learned to count on again, and again. To learn more, click the image or title here!
Have fun with this one! Imagining what your little one is going to wear home can be such a fun way of preparing for their arrival.
Think about something comfortable for the season and strapping into a car seat. At How2Mom, we're HUGE fans of zip up jammies. Another awesome perk of these is quick and easy diaper changing! Trust us, you'll prefer zippers to buttons! Some of our favorites are linked by clicking the title or picture.
These a are few things that may not come to mind!
During labor, you can start to experience dryness. Having chapped lips or dry eyes isn't something any mom needs to deal with!
Bring along some artificial tears (a fave brand linked by clicking the photo to the left) and your favorite chapstick and you'll be set. For convenience, we have linked some options for you. Access the link by clicking the title or picture.
15. Paperwork! (birth plan, insurance cards, ID, ect.)
This one is pretty straight forward; Double check your purse/wallet/bag to make sure you have all the paperwork that you may need. Insurance cards and ID are important. Also, if your written birth plan. If you need help putting this together, contact us today so we can help!
If you are planning on Placenta Encapsulation (which we highly suggest!), you'll need to make sure to have a small cooler packed and ready to go.
Nothing too large is necessary so don't feel the need to bring anything huge! A simple cooler such as the one pictured here will suffice. Click the photo to find out more about How2Mom's Placenta Encapsulation services. And don't be afraid to reach out if you have any questions in regards to how it all works! The benefits are endless 🙂
17. Nursing Attire
If you are planning to breastfeed, nursing attire is a must. Very often, your milk will come in fairly soon after giving birth. Having clothing with easy access to nurse makes it a smoother transition for both mom and baby. And did we mention that most nursing attire (whether it be bras, nightgowns, tanks) tend to be extremely comfortable material! When purchasing these items ahead of time, be sure to size UP. As much as you think your breasts have grown during pregnancy, they are about to get that much larger when your milk comes in. Better to be prepared with something that has more space than something too tight! We have linked our favorites below.
It's baby snuggling time!
There is nothing more awesome as a new parent than holding your little on and giving them love. At How2Mom, we cannot live without our favorite Swaddle Blankets. Click the photo to snag your own!
Soft material is sensitive enough for your newborns skin. And they are also easily washable (which is necessary for those newborn incidents that can occur - spit up, blow outs, ect!). Some of our favorites are linked by clicking the title or picture.
19. Car Seat!!!
This may seem like an obvious one, but in the rush to get to the hospital/birthing center, you don't want to forget it!!
Be sure to read the instructions for your specific Car Seat carefully and install it into your vehicle PRIOR to your due date. We recommend about 1 month early to be safe and assured that it is properly set for a newborn.
Stay tuned! How2Mom's team will be hosting a Car Seat Clinic over the summer to discuss with mom's how to properly install and strap baby in safetly! You won't wanna miss it!
20. Diffuser
Set the relaxation and the mood with your essential oils and diffuser.
There you have it Mamas!
The How2Mom Team “Must Haves” for your birthing journey! We want to wish all of you a safe, smooth labor and all the best on this new adventure!
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