As a physician, I often encounter expectant parents overwhelmed by the prospect of childbirth. Recently, I had a patient who humorously mentioned that her baby was the size of a cantaloupe, prompting her to start prepping her hospital bag well in advance of her due date. Here’s a light-hearted yet practical breakdown of what to include when packing for the big day.
Essential Items
First, prioritize essential items like your phone and charger, toothbrush, toothpaste, lotion, deodorant, and hairbrush. These everyday necessities are vital for your comfort during your stay, so be sure to remove them from your bag once you realize you’ll need them daily.
Clothing
Next, consider clothing. An oversized hoodie, cozy slipper socks, and a pair of extra-large jogging pants can provide comfort post-delivery. You might even find that those jogging pants were specifically purchased to accommodate your growing belly.
Snacks
Snack preparation is also key, as hospital food can sometimes leave much to be desired. Consider packing granola bars, crackers, chocolate, and a bottle of water for those moments when hunger strikes. Just remember, if you leave food in your bag too long, it might not be appetizing when you need it.
Entertainment
As for entertainment, you might want to bring along reading materials for any downtime. However, it’s worth noting that many new parents find themselves sleeping or managing pain rather than reading. A light magazine like Us Weekly could be a better choice than heavy books.
Relaxation Items
For relaxation during delivery, items like aromatherapy candles, soothing playlists on your device, and massage oil may come in handy. However, if you’re having a C-section, remember to tailor your choices accordingly.
Important Documents
Don’t forget your important documents, including insurance cards, ID, and some cash. These will be necessary for your final doctor’s appointment, where you may receive another update about your baby’s size—perhaps this time compared to a watermelon!
Baby Clothes
When it comes to baby clothes, select an outfit for your newborn to come home in. If you find a small stain on your preferred outfit, it might be best to wash it before packing it away.
Camera
Lastly, ensure you have a camera ready for those first precious photos. Although you may have hesitations about your appearance in pictures, capturing your newborn’s first moments is priceless.
In Summary
When the time comes for labor, your bag should include:
- Slipper socks
- Light reading materials
Being prepared helps alleviate some of the stress surrounding childbirth.
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