7 Things Your Birth Bag Is Missing
Okay mom, since you’ve probably already read anywhere between 8-60 ‘hospital bag’ blogs, we thought we would take it upon ourselves to list the things you didn’t think you’d need to pack but will be glad you did.
Let’s get to it shall we?
1. Your bathing suit
Baths and showers are pretty much a heaven-send when it comes to managing pain during labor. If you are lucky enough to be giving birth in a room with a shower or tub, be sure to pack a bathing suit. A nurse will likely assist you in the shower to provide you with stability. Depending on the kind of person you are, you might be more comfortable in a bathing suit.
2. A really good playlist and speakers
Load your phone and/or ipod with playlists for all of the many equally-viable moods you will be experiencing at this time. Download your favorites in case the hospital WiFi is anywhere short from high-speed. Trust me, the last thing you want is your calming labor song to be skipping like you’re at a techno club circa ‘89. Create your playlist now.
3. Nursing bra
7 Things Your Birth Bag Is Missing - MainAlthough it may take time for your milk to come in, it’s recommended to try to breastfeed your baby in the first hour after birth. Cutely coined ‘magic hour’, this is the optimal time to give your baby the opportunity to latch and suck as it will help to initiate your milk supply. Please, please, please remember that it is very common for babies not to latch right away. It can take quite some time, so please be patient. That said, you’ll definitely want to pack a comfortable nursing bra. The easy drop down ‘b’ clips in Bravado Designs bra’s make it super easy to go skin-to-skin. A good nursing bra will also give you the comfort and support you need at this time. See our recos at the bottom of this post.
4. Decor
There’s nothing more sterile or blah than a hospital room. So unless you’ve booked a luxury birthing method, you might want to pack a few things to make your space a little bit home-ier. Fresh flowers, decorative lights, battery-operated candles, pillows and throws will make a world of difference.
5. Disposable or film camera
It’s pretty safe to say giving birth isn’t your most glamorous moment, but it is magical. A disposable camera is the best way to capture this beautiful journey without obsessing about how you look in each shot. And trust me, you’ll be happy you did it when you develop your film and find the most beautifully candid photos of this special moment.
6. Baby bath wash
One of the most monumental hospital moments has to be baby’s first bath. If you’re anything like me and are particular about the kind of products you use on your or your kids bodies, you might feel more comfortable bringing your own.
7. BUBBLY !!!
Yes — you read that correctly. Of all moments in life worth celebrating, this might be #1. So go on, pop some champagne!!!
Bottom line, birth isn’t easy. Let’s make it as fun and bearable as possible. You’re making magic after all!