For nine months all we do is prepare for the baby's arrival, and we do everything to make sure there are no setbacks. From eating healthy to painting their bedroom, but a couple of weeks before the big day we start to wonder what needs to go in the hospital bag.
Here are some tips to make sure nothing is missing from your suitcase, as well as some extra advice about the arrival of your little one. Remember to keep in mind that some items may be provided by your hospital and others may not be necessary depending on the type of birth (natural childbirth or cesarean section).
- Documents
Gather the necessary documents a couple of weeks in advance. Your ID card, Social Security card or insurance card in case of private health care. Copy of your history of analytical tests, among others.
- For mom.
The first thing we think is to prepare the baby's clothes, but in reality your baby will need much less than you to feel comfortable.
Nightgown. Generally, when you enter the hospital to give birth, you are given a gown with an opening so that the doctors can examine you and to give birth. You can continue to wear this gown after you give birth, but if you want to move around at your leisure it is a good idea to pack a nightgown that will allow you to breastfeed if you decide to do so.
Comfortable underwear. The postpartum period is not glamorous, so leave the lacy panties at home and pack high-waisted, flexible, cotton panties. You can also opt for disposable panties that come in handy during the first few days when sometimes cotton pads are not enough and we stain our clothes. A nursing or sports bra will be the best option because milk production will increase the size of your breasts and you need a comfortable bra.
Cotton pads. These are usually provided by the hospital, but it is always good to pack a few and have them ready at home for the first few weeks postpartum. It is important that they are cotton for better absorption and to avoid moisture in the perineum area in case you have an episiotomy.
Comfortable slippers. A must for the cold hospital floors, remember to pack a pair of slippers, socks, and bath sandals. The hospital will provide you with some type of foot protection, but there's nothing more comfortable than your own.
Toiletries. Include a toothbrush, toothpaste, shower gel, shampoo, conditioner, comb, moisturizer, deodorant, hair dryer, makeup, perfume, and any other items you need for personal care.
Clothes to leave the hospital. The clothes we go into the hospital with are usually not appropriate for leaving, especially after a cesarean section or episiotomy. Bring a change of comfortable, loose-fitting clothes suitable for breastfeeding if you decide to breastfeed.
- For the baby.
1. Three complete changes, including cotton products, pajamas or a set of pants and sweater, socks, bib, hat.
2. Newborn diapers.
3. Soap, body lotion, diaper cream, disposable towels.
4. Bottle in case of formula feeding.
5. Muslin or blankets for swaddling and swaddling.
6. Wool blanket in winter or cotton in summer.
All of the above should be prepared two to three weeks in advance. Remember to wash all the baby's clothes before packing or storing them. In addition to this it is necessary to consider the transfer home and install the car seat and learn how to use it before the arrival of the baby.
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