pack like a pro
there are usually two kinda packers...The type A who’s got enough things to last for a week, a perfectly packed pump and even thought to tuck away a sleeping bag for your partner. Then there’s the type B, you’ve thrown in some comfy jammies, maybe a sleeper for the baby and your toothbrush.
So, what do you actually need to pack for your stay at the hospital? I’m going to cover the things you probably wouldn’t think to pack! I’ve seen all sorts of things show up in clients’ bags, and let me tell you, there are so many lists out there…don’t stress! There’s no wrong way to go about this. Whether it’s all tucked away in a cute pink suitcase or thrown into a duffle bag last minute, you do you!
3 THINGS YOU'LL ACTUALLY need...A comfort item from home. This could be your fav blanket, pillow, a cozy robe, comfy slippers or all of the above!
Hospitals can feel rather sterile, unfamiliar, and this can cause your nervous system to feel uneasy. But suddenly you throw your cozy blanket over the bed, and it feels more welcoming, a place you’d bring a baby into.
An extra-long phone charger cord.
Hear me out, but the hospital room only has so many plugs! Making the reach from the wall to your bed or to your partner’s sleeping station awkward. You’ll thank me later.
Eye sleep mask & noise-cancelling earbuds. Hospitals don’t go to sleep, even if you do!
Whoever is on baby duty can pause wearing the earbuds (I recommend your partner be in charge of listening for babies’ hunger cues, have them bring you the baby when they need to eat etc!).
Nurses will come and go to do routine checks, but also other babies are being born just down the hall! Cancelling out noise and light can lead to better rest…if that’s at all possible when not in your own bed.
Pro Tip: try wearing your eye-mask and or earbuds while in labour. Cutting out all other distractions, forcing others to speak to your partner on your behalf, can keep you focused and in the zone.
*I lied, here’s a bonus #4, SNACKS. Hospital food is not exactly a 5-star restaurant. Your world is now also running on a 24h clock, and nursing can make one rather ravenous. Having some fav snacks packed can be helpful, also, you do have a mini fridge in your room. Plus, a communal full-size fridge down the hall. Fresh fruit, veggies, that kinda thing can go in there!
other packing tips & tricksI recommend you create two lists to help break down the task.
List One: The Non-Negotiables
Think the basics! You can’t live without it. Basic care needs like your toothbrush, comfy/stretchy going-home clothes, and a going-home outfit for the baby.
This includes a list for your partner, I also encourage you to consider bringing an entertainment device. Especially if you are going in for an induction or c-section, procedures can take time, and there is a weird amount of just waiting around for things to happen that occurs.
List Two: The Maybes (but my nesting urge is telling me too)
These items can be packed for ease of mind; nesting urges are real, but my pro tip is to then leave them in the car.
Think things like your breast pump, nursing pillow, and extra sleeping things for your partner.
If you aren’t bringing me along to your birth or a different doula, here are some things I pack in my doula bag that I recommend you bring!
Portable Bluetooth speaker for some zen vibes and good tunes
Birth combs, check out Amazon or Etsy…a small, portable and effective pain relief tool
Essential oils, if that’s your vibe. Sprinkle in the shower or around the bath…feels like the spa.
Birth affirmation cards, encouraging words set the tone…this is hard, but this is good.
When should you have things ready to go? There really isn’t much need to have things packed prior to 37 weeks, even then you may re-pack things closer to, like your fav jammies vs the random ones you found at the bottom of the drawer. A gentle reminder for that nesting urge, if you forget something, I’m sure someone can bring it to you or your partner can go out and grab it! Do not stress.
Good luck and don’t forget I’m cheering you on from afar!
