For new expecting mommies, do you know what to pack in your hospital bag when you are going into labour? Here are the things I would recommend.
You have spent the past several months dreaming of the day you finally get to meet your baby. You have stocked up on baby gear and baby essentials, but don’t forget one of the most important third trimester to-dos:
Deciding what to pack in your hospital bag – for baby, you and your hubby/partner.
You are in the final stretch, with only a few weeks to go before your due date. Now is the time to pack a bag for all the essentials you will need during labour and after your baby is born.
It’s good idea to have your bags packed by the time you are about 35 weeks pregnant, so that you are not rushing around in early labour trying to get everything done then.
Of course if you want to get a jumpstart on things, by all means start earlier – when to pack a hospital bag is up to you. But it is a good idea not to leave it for later than 38 weeks of your pregnancy.
On average, mommies who deliver vaginally stay in the hospital for one to two days. If you deliver via c-section, you would be looking at closer to three or four days.
I would suggested that always ask your hospital what they provide for mothers, and take those things off your hospital bag checklist. Otherwise use the following hospital bag checklist:
1) For Mom
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1 – 2 night gowns with front buttons (easy for breastfeeding), some hospitals do provide hospital gown and you might have to wear it all the time.
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a sweater
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a set of clothes for discharge from hospital (pick those clothes that you wear on 5 – 6 months pregnancy, dress or clothes with front button to be more gentle on c-sec wound and easier for breastfeeding)
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1 – 2 pairs of warm socks
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2 – 3 maternity bras (no underwire, more comfortable)
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2 – 3 breast pads (breast milk leakage shouldn’t happen at such early stage but it’s ok to be prepared
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2 – 3 maternity underware
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maternity pads (to be changed regularly due to lochia); bring some in case the hospital type (hospital may provides some for new moms), you might not like it
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a pair of slipper (to wear it in the toilet)
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hairband or headband (tight up your hair to look tidy)
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1 bath towel (in case you need to take shower before labour)
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1 – 2 face towel(s)
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toiletries and personal items such as comb, toothbrush, toothpaste, facial wash, lotion, moisturizer, lip balm, shampoo and conditioner
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handphone and charger (fully charge your handphone before you go for labour)
2) For Baby
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1 set of baby’s clothes with mitten and booties for discharge from hospital
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soft hat (optional, if your receiving blanket got hood you may omit it)
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1 receiving blanket or wrapping blanket (not too thick)
You have meticulously gone through the hospital bag checklist for mom and baby, but don’t forget about packing a bag for your hubby/partner!
Since you both will likely be spending a night or two (or more) in the maternity ward, gather up some overnight essentials plus a few things to keep your hubby/partner occupied.
Here’s what to put in your hubby/partner’s hospital bag:
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handphone and charger
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a change of clothes
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toiletries such as comb, toothbrush, deodorant, and facial wash
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some snacks
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entertainment, whether it’s something to read, listen to or watch
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digital camera or video camera, and charger
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