If you’re anything like me, you’ve scoured blogs, articles, books, and sought advice from friends about what to expect in the hospital after bringing your little miracle into the world. Yet, I still found myself caught off guard by a few realities. So, I’m here to share my insights with you, ensuring you’re better prepared than I was. You’re welcome!
- Visit the Restroom Before You Need To
Trust me—don’t wait until you feel that urgent need. Getting out of bed is a feat in itself, and then you’ve got to shuffle to the bathroom, only to remember you need to fill up your handy squirt bottle first. Cue the running water! If you delay too long, you’ll end up doing the potty dance. Not exactly the best way to celebrate just having given birth. - Cravings Don’t Just Disappear
I was in denial, thinking my insatiable ice cream cravings would vanish after delivery. Spoiler alert: they didn’t. Bring along a stash of your must-have snacks from pregnancy. Unless you fancy going cold turkey while your body is on an adjustment rollercoaster, it’s best to come prepared. - Bring Your Own Pain Relievers
While those sweet nurses offering ibuprofen seem like lifesavers, you might want to rethink that. Each 500mg pill can come with a price tag of $10! You could score an entire bottle at the store for that price! Just let them know you’ve brought your own—if you need something stronger, they can handle it. - Request a List of Your Nurses
You’ll likely encounter a multitude of nurses during your stay, and remembering all their names can be tricky amidst the chaos. These incredible folks truly deserve a thank-you gift, as they carry the burden of the nitty-gritty. Consider asking for a list so you can express your gratitude later. - Earplugs and Sleep Masks Are Lifesavers
Hospital rooms can be bright and noisy, making it hard to catch any Zs. Between monitors, cell phones, and bustling hallways, sleep is a precious commodity. Bring earplugs to drown out the din and use a sleep mask to block out extraneous light. Your partner is there to wake you if the baby needs you, so you can snooze without worry. - Stock Up on Stretchy Yoga Pants
Invest in some comfy, stretchy yoga pants—trust me, you want them. You might think tight clothing is the last thing you want after childbirth, but with those lovely post-delivery diapers, you’ll want something form-fitting to keep everything in place. Bonus points for high-waisted options to support your post-baby belly! - Pack Your Own Bath Towel
The hospital will provide towels, but they’re about the size of hand towels and feel more like sandpaper. Plus, they’re cleaned with strong chemicals, which can irritate your sensitive skin. Bring a soft, fluffy towel that you don’t mind leaving behind. - Embrace the Loss of Modesty
Get ready to shed your modesty as soon as you check in. During labor, privacy becomes a luxury you can’t afford. Even after birth, modesty can be tricky while trying to nurse. Don’t hesitate to ask the lactation consultant for help—after all, it’s just a boob and a baby!
While there are plenty of important things to prepare for, like caring for your new little one, don’t overlook these practical tips. They can genuinely help you navigate those first few days. Good luck!
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