Packing for the Hospital
You've seen it a million times. The typical TV show - a very pregnant woman says, "honey, it's time!" and the husband starts racing around looking for bags to throw in the car. When packing for the hospital, you don't want to leave out something you need, but you certainly don't want to pack your entire wardrobe! One bag should be sufficient, as long as you have packed smartly.
But what to bring? First of all, after your beautiful baby is born, you or your birthing partner will be ready to tell the world! Have a list of phone numbers, and even more importantly, a pre-paid calling card. Most hospitals discourage cell phone use and the individual rooms cannot dial long distance. Make sure you have your health insurance card, the pediatrician's phone number and that your partner has an ID.
If you plan to deliver in something you bring from home, remember you won't get it back. So bring something comfortable for after your baby is born. Your nurse will have to check your perineum area often during your stay, so make your outfit something loose and comfortable. The floors are often slippery, so bring non-skid slippers too. A bathrobe will keep you warm if the room is cool, but is not necessary. Bring nursing bras and plenty of large, loose panties to change into. Nursing pads are a must for when your milk comes in.
And speaking of clothes, take a loose fitting 5 month maternity outfit to go home in. Slip on shoes will be helpful when dressing to go home. It is doubtful you will forget to bring something for the baby to wear home - that is the best part of packing! Make sure it is appropriate to the temperature outside and will not overheat your newborn. It won't hurt to tuck a diaper or two in the bag, but your hospital will have plenty in your baby's isolette to take with you. Your baby will be wrapped in a hospital blanket that you can take home. Don't forget a hat and booties!
For your toiletries, bring shampoo, conditioner, nice smelling soap, hair bands, chapstick, hair dryer, a comb, hair gel, makeup, toothpaste, toothbrush, contacts, contact solution, glasses, lotion and prescription medication. And an extra pillow you don't mind throwing away is a must if you are delivering in the hospital!
Bring your baby book and ask the staff to put your baby's foot print in it when they are getting the one for the hospital. Remember your birth plan, an object to focus on during labor and massage lotion for a back massage.
Your partner needs plenty of change for vending machines, as well as a few snacks and drinks. A notepad and paper can be extremely helpful to jot down phone numbers and notes to take home. Cash should be packed for meals in the cafeteria. If your partner is staying with you after the delivery, a change of clothes and toiletries would be nice too.
Remember, you will have your baby no matter what you do or don't have at the hospital. So don't stress about packing - what you end up needing can be brought to you by a relative or friend.
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First Signs of Pregnancy
- the first sign is usually a missed menstrual period
- nausea is common in early pregnancy and eating saltine crackers may help
- one may experience extreme fatigue and need an extra nap daily
- frequent urination might become an issue
- tender breasts or soreness is not an unusual symptom
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