Well, hello! It has recently come to my attention that this little post of mine has been pinned over 30,000 times. With a picture of my face hours postpartum, none-the-less! HA! I figured that since so many people are benefiting from it, it only made sense I pop in and say hello. Since writing this post, I’ve had a second baby boy and am pregnant with my third little guy, due in June 2014. If you’re curious whether or not I would change anything in this post having been through it again, my answer would be no. I stand by it all, and am thrilled at the outpouring of comments it has received. You should definitely take the time to read through them all.
Thank you for visiting These Little Moments. Be sure to hop over to the homepage to read about my adventures in motherhood (I’m pretty brutally honest…), find some yummy recipes and share in my little community. Good luck with your pregnancy, and happy packing!
~
Asked on Formspring: Hi Molly! I’ve been reading your blog for a few years now (pre-wedding!) I’m 30 weeks with my first baby now and remember you having done a post on what to pack in your hospital bag but I can’t seem to find it! Can you repost it?
Congrats on the almost-arrival of your little one! The original post was a list of things I had already packed and I asked for advice from those who had gone through it before me. So I’ll do you one better than reposting it, I’ll give you an updated one now that I’ve done it too. There are great compilations out there already, but here’s my two cents.
Paperwork:
– Birth plan, if you’ve written one. I didn’t, but I discussed it with the nurse when I arrived.
– If you haven’t filled out admission papers prior to arriving at your choice of hospital (Ours sent us the information to fill out and send in during the pregnancy), you or someone with you will most likely have to fill that out when you arrive. Have proper identification and health insurance information on hand.
– A pen. They always come in handy.
For you:
– Toiletries. Bring the whole shabang — shampoo, conditioner, soap, tooth brush, tooth paste, razor, face wash, make up, hair product, brush, hair dryer (if your hospital doesn’t already have one in the bathroom.) The first shower after a vaginal birth (I can’t speak to a c-section…anyone?) is awkward and uncomfortable. You are sore and exhausted and will most likely be instructed to shower sitting down. Don’t worry, you’ll want to! For me, the first shower was just a get clean situation, but my second shower felt wonderful and I wanted to look as happy as I was feeling. It felt great to “dress up” for guests and the thousands of photos that were being taken. (Also might want to bring toiletries for your partner. We lived close enough that Michael went home to shower, but you might not have that option.)
(Post-second shower. Well worth it.)
– Clothing for you. When you arrive you will change into a standard hospital gown. I’ve heard of some women bringing their own fancy birthing gown, but I personally think it’s a waste of time and money. Here’s the thing about birth; there’s a lot of fluids. A LOT of fluids. So my recommendation for clothing is:
– Dark colors. (See: fluids). I wore a thigh-length black sleep shirt that unbuttoned in the front right after my first shower. It was comfortable, allowed for easy access to the bits that needed lots of ice and attention that day (it’s a true fact), and was easy to open for breastfeeding.
– Stretchy, comfortable pants. I wore (black) yoga pants and a (black) nursing tank on day two. Remember, you will still look at least 6-months pregnant, so you want things that stretch and give.
– A lightweight robe, zip-up sweatshirt or cardigan. Hospital temperatures can vary and you will be losing a lot of fluids. Again, with the fluids!
– Slippers (ones that you don’t care too much about) and flip flops, for walking around/taking showers. Socks.
– Nursing tanks. You most likely won’t want to bother with a bra during those early days, so a nursing tank provides coverage and support without being binding.
For baby:
– Going home outfit. A general rule of thumb is that baby will need one more layer than you do. Owen was born during a very hot June and came home in a onesie, long-sleeve jammies and a hat. I also used a lightweight blanket over him in the air conditioned car. Make sure you bring at least one outfit in the NEWBORN size. I know, they look so small you can’t imagine anything fitting in it, but trust me. Unless you have a really, really big baby, yours will most likely fit in the newborn size. For like, a minute. Bring a 0-3 as a backup.
– Car seat.
– Honestly, that’s really all you NEED for baby. The hospital will provide diapers, wipes, lotions, creams, receiving blankets, hats and t-shirts. I brought all that stuff from home, and didn’t use it at all. If you feel like dressing up your little one before on the days before you leave, by all means bring extra clothes. Owen wore the hospital-issued hats and tee’s and stayed wrapped up in blankets for most of our stay.
Electronics:
– Cameras, camcorder (if you’re so inclined), lap top (you will have down time, believe it or not) and cell phones, as well as any needed chargers, batteries and memory cards.
Extras:
– Boppy or My Brest Friend pillow. Great for early nursing and visitors who want support while holding baby.
– A pillow and pillowcase for you. Hospital pillows are flat as pancakes. Bring something that makes you comfortable.
– iPod, photos or anything you think you want to use during birth. I brought my iPod, but it never made it out of the bag.
– SNACKS. I cannot stress this one enough. Yeah, yeah, for everyone else, but bring snacks for YOU. I was famished after birth and it felt like just moments before I was asking to eat something. My first food post-baby was a Kashi granola bar and holy cow, was it delicious. Hospital food, well…it’s about on par with airplane food. Bring take out menus or at least the number to a good pizza place if your hospital doesn’t already provide them.
Also, since we’re taking hospital setting here — you most likely will not be able to eat once things get rolling. My hospital had popsicles on hand that were fabulous, but if yours doesn’t, see if you can bring your own.
Note: You will notice I didn’t mention anything about bringing underwear. That’s because you will be introduced the infamous mesh undies and lo, they are divine. Mine were boy short-style and they stretch to massive lengths, which is good, because you will be wearing sanitary napkins the size of down comforters. Again, fluids.
That being said, when you leave the hospital, take everything you can get your hands on. Seriously. Receiving blankets, diapers, baby toiletries, EXTRA MESH UNDIES, the perry bottle (I hate to tell you, but you won’t be using toilet paper for a while), numbing spray, extra pads, etc. The hospitals actually encourage it and will mostly likely give you more of whatever if you just ask. I asked for more mesh undies. Seriously.
Now, I’m sure I forgot something because jeesh, that’s a lot of stuff. So feel free to comment and tell me and all moms-to-be what you couldn’t have lived without during your birth stay.
Happy packing!
These Little Moments 
114 comments
Comments feed for this article
January 13, 2011 at 2:49 pm
Erin
So, here’s a follow-up question. I’m 34 weeks with my first and just sort of assumed that after they’d stitched you up and all, they’d leave your lady bits alone. Apparently not, according to half of the internet.
So the question: Exactly how much do they poke around down there after a vaginal birth? I mean, are they going to be coming in and checking me often enough for it to be annoying to have to take off my pants every time? Or is it just a check or two the first day or so to make sure nothing’s terribly wrong, and then they will leave my poor, war-torn vagina alone? I’ve got a pair of pants in my hospital bag, but if I’m going to have to take them off every hour, I’m not sure it’s even worth it to wear them.
January 13, 2011 at 2:51 pm
Molly
They checked on me during day one often, but then I was pretty much left alone unless I complained of discomfort. Usually, I just asked for more ice 🙂
January 13, 2011 at 4:36 pm
Candice
If you have a c-section, I think you bleed more (since it’s not expelled as much during the birth) so I was checked often b/c they needed to change my pads and clean me up (you really can’t have any shame left at that point). I didn’t wear pants at all the entire time I was in the hospital until the day I checked out (day four).
September 26, 2013 at 12:36 pm
Kristen
You bleed less after a c-section… I only bled for 3 days after my c-section. when they take baby out they suction out most of the fluid. Not going to lie I was very thankful for a c-section for that reason… The incision was checked once/2x a day but other than that it was left alone. Because of the laws where I live I was in the hospital for 4 days after my daughter was born even though neither of us had any complications.
October 19, 2013 at 8:07 am
MamaBear Trudy
No, you will generally bleed the same amount after a c-section or vaginal delivery. It differs for everyone. And it can last for WEEKS (this does not mean that it will, just that it is normal to last longer than a period). The bleeding is lochia…fluid and placenta remnants.
Your c-section incision will be checked daily (multiple times during the day) during your hospital stay. You will have absolutely no interest in wearing pants, but yes, those gauzy mesh panties will be your BFF.
Hospital pillows can be flat, but they stack well…ask for more. Use them to prop the baby for feeding, to make yourself comfortable, even to help guests hold the baby. Only bring one from home if both case AND pillow can be washed and dried on hot, hot temp with bleach. Hospitals are NOT clean places! Leave the Boppy at home for the same reason.
Yes…bring a robe and slippers. Again, something that can be sanitized.
Hair dryer! Even if you do not dry your hair, you can use the cooler setting to dry your incision after showering. (Drying your incision well is essential…can help prevent infection).
I’m pretty well endowed on top. When my breast engorged the morning after my c-section, I NEEDED the support of an underwire bra. Bring one, and a less binding sports-type bra.
*****Stool softener***** if you are scheduling a c-section, start taking it two or three days prior. I kid you not. Bring fiber bars, too. One of the most uncomfortable to painful aspects of a C is the first BM after surgery. The narcotics used for pain management/anesthesia causes serious constipation. Add to that the pain of surgery…not a fun time.
November 18, 2013 at 4:21 pm
Lyndsi
No, “Kristen” is right. The average bleed time is anywhere from 2-12 weeks. 2 or 3 weeks is more average for c-sections and much longer for vaginal births. They do suction most of the blood out w/CS’s so instead of having to wait and get rid of all that extra blood naturally, they do a lot of the work for you from the very start.
December 6, 2013 at 9:50 pm
mamaszrama
in a C-section you loose double the amount of blood as in a vaginal birth– both from the uterus & from the layers that must be severed. Vaginal bleeding length is not affected much– but after a c-section you have a lot more blood to rebuild.
October 28, 2013 at 3:25 pm
CJF
To the reply that said she only bled 3 days after a c-section! That is awesome- for her, but Please know ladies this is not the norm. I had a cesarean and bled for almost a month, so did my sister in law.
November 26, 2013 at 2:08 pm
Kristina
Wow, only 3 days? I’ve had 3 c-sections and each time bled for the full 6 weeks. The flow (after the first several days) was much less than a vaginal birth would be but still there, gradually tapering off. I guess everyone is different.
Also, bring an extension cord or power strip, my hospital didn’t have many extra outlets in the room. And as we all know the iPhone cord is pretty short, with the extension cord I was able to have my phone right next to me and not lying on the floor behind my bed.
January 14, 2011 at 5:08 pm
Stacia
they only checked me once and i was laying on my side sort of curled up in the fetal position and they checked from behind. i think mostly to see that all looked good (stitches if you have them) and that if i had hemorrhoids (from pushing so hard). my nurses didn’t touch that i can remember besides moving your legs and butt cheeks apart. it’s super quick and you will barely remember it.
god sorry for the tmi but who are we kidding, at that point it’s not tmi anymore. i wore my gown for like 24 hours or so after birth (they put a fresh one on me). once i put pants on they didn’t check anymore.
January 14, 2011 at 9:43 pm
Erin
Thanks ladies 🙂 I will go ahead and plan on pants — I’ll be more comfortable in them than in a gown anyway, as long as they’re not coming in and making me take them off every hour! That would just be annoying.
October 1, 2013 at 5:24 pm
Andrea Cunningham
What they are checking is called lochia, the bloody discharge after birth. They will probably check you often right after you give birth because that is when you are most likely to hemorrhage from the birth. They want to catch this early so they can administer the correct medications and you don’t loose too much blood. After the first 12-24 hours post birth they should only check you once per shift.
September 15, 2013 at 11:55 am
Ashley
My son was 9lbs 3oz when he was born, I had him vaginally with no meds. I had horrible bleeding & tearing & had nursing checking down there about every hour to two hours. They’ll poke your belly & watch for fluid, feel for your uterus & check any stitches you may have. They’ll also clean you up, change your padding & linens. Even though I did not have an epidural, I still couldn’t move or walk much do to all the “damage” from delivery. Every birth is different but don’t plan on wearing your own panties, & besides after delivery the last thing you will care about is someone looking down there. It’s gonna hurt, just let them do what they need & you focus on the amazing baby that you just made.
January 17, 2014 at 12:11 am
Camber
I feel like I should clarify the “they’ll poke your belly” comment. It’s not a poke. It’s a push and kneed worse than you would ever do to a batch of bread. 🙂 In my opinion, that’s the worst part! They have to do it to stimulate the uterus to contract so you don’t hemorrhage. Also, I’ve only had vaginal deliveries, but the bleeding is also from the location of the placenta, so it is like an open bleeding wound that needs to heal. It’s most likely going to bleed for the six weeks because it needs to heel, not because they cleaned you all out when you had the c-section.
September 25, 2013 at 2:11 pm
Kim challis
They left me alone after one check to make sure I didn’t have any infections but I had an internal star fish tear. It s mostly suppository s they will give and believe me you want them!!! It’s an anti inflammatory specific for tgat area and I could not stand up without one every 4 hours for 8 weeks! Ask for a Rx for 60 before you leave. Also as soon as you give birth like before tge dr walks out have them approve stool softeners into your med list to be given with the suppositorys. Tge first bm can be like delivery all over again so I’m told if you don’t start with the softeners. Don’t start taking them before though or your nurse will have a God awful mess while u push lol!
November 16, 2013 at 3:14 pm
Kaitlyn
I’m a L&D nurse. If you have a normal vaginal delivery, they’ll be checking your “fundus” (rubbing on your belly to feel your uterus) to ensure you’re not bleeding excessively. If you have stitches, they’ll also be checking those at least 3 times a day to ensure things are healing properly. If you have a c-section, expect the same thing. They’ll also be checking your incision site on your belly. Expect to bleed A LOT the first day after delivery, vaginal or c-section. After that, it should slow to the flow of a heavy period for about a week, slowing even more after that. Wear what you’re comfortable in, and if that includes sweat pants then go for it! This list is wonderful, especially the part about packing lightly for baby. The hospital has everything you need for baby during your stay. Happy birthing! 🙂
August 22, 2014 at 3:23 pm
amelia
my first birth went amazing no stitches hardly ay swelling and normal bleeding. They only asked if I was okay and never checked me “down there” once the hour after delivery was done. My second Birth was still good no stitches hardly any swelling but because it was so fast 1 hour 20 min start to finish. Once she was out I started to hemorrhage very badly. after that I had a nurse with my constantly checking me for 3 hours. didn’t even bother covering my bottom because as soon as I tried she would pull it up again. after they got control of it they were in every hour for the first 24 hours. I never even bothered getting dressed.
January 19, 2016 at 12:26 am
Kait
Hello!! I am a nursing student, and I just finished my OB rotation. Our nurses do head to toe exams at the beginning of their shift and maybe one more time unless there are complications. But believe me… You WANT them to check. Checking helps gauge your blood loss as well as assess for any signs of subinvolution and hemorrhage.
January 13, 2011 at 2:56 pm
Melinda
Great post. When I had my son, I packed based on some list in a book and 90% of the stuff I packed was never taken out of the bag. The only other thing I would add from your list would be a second bag filled with overnight goods, medications, and a pillow for Daddy. Our hospital had a pull out bed for Dad, and we didn’t even think to pack stuff for my husband so he had to go home and get what he needed later.
January 13, 2011 at 2:59 pm
Ginger
Post c-section for me, the shower was amazing, and yet difficult. At my hospital, they wouldn’t let me shower for a day until my bandages were ready to come off. Then I used the shower to help get them off. It was…not comfortable. My mom and husband had to help, so that first one was more work than enjoyment. HOWEVER, it felt amazing when it was finally done. And while I had to be careful of soaps and things, I concur on bringing your own toiletries.
January 13, 2011 at 3:12 pm
Becky
Ahhh…that first shower. It’s like the best shower you ever had in your LIFE.
I had a c-section (unplanned) and so I wasn’t as mobile as Molly. I didn’t fix my hair until well after I was home (lifting your arms that high pulls at your abdomen). Although, looking at my photos after James arrived I wish someone would have done it for me.
One note I would add; slippers with soles, so you don’t feel like you are wandering the maternity ward barefoot. Also, if you want to wear your own underwear bring HUGE granny panties. They will have room for the pads, and/or, if you end up with a c-section they won’t sit right on your scar. Anything that sits on your scar = THE DEVIL. It sticks and pulls and it sucks. Don’t do it. Probably you should just go with the mesh undies, but I know there are women out there who want to wear all their own stuff.
August 27, 2013 at 1:08 am
Haliegh
totally agree…nothing on your incision its not worth the pain!
January 13, 2011 at 3:45 pm
Courtney
I brought nipple cream after having baby #1 so I could feel prepared for nursing #2, but luckily I was not as sore (read: bleeding) so I was in a better way. Contacts/glasses for those who wear them. Candies to suck on (similar to your popscicles) during labor. I brought a robe and no matter what I wore or ruined while wearing it, a cute robe covered me up and also kept me looking decent while many visitors entered/exited during nursings…comfy socks in addition to slippers/flip flops is also nice, even though my hospital provided some which I gladly took for home as a memento along with my disposable undies, diapers, perry bottle, among other things!
January 13, 2011 at 3:51 pm
Julie Q
I’m 33 weeks along and this post is PERFECT TIMING! So far I just had the paperwork, jammies for me, and a couple newborn outfits packed (and some B-list makeup) since i’ll just grab my regular makeup bag running out the door! thanks for sharing this 🙂
January 13, 2011 at 4:35 pm
Sassafrass
Great list! I would also add music if that’s your thing. We didn’t put the TV on but listened to music from our ipod/speaker set up. Also, a book or something to write down when you last fed the baby and diaper changes. I couldn’t remember whenever a nurse would ask me but that just might be me 😉
January 13, 2011 at 4:38 pm
Candice
I’d say bring slip on shoes for the ride home. There was no way I was bending over to tie sneakers after my c-section so I had slip-on sneakers (like Vans style).
January 13, 2011 at 4:46 pm
Barbara
One thing to take home from the hospital is definitely the nose sucker thing… (sorry…the professional name escapes me at this moment)… The one we got at the hospital was blue and it is something that I still use all the time and my son is turning 11 months this month. It is great since they get loads of colds and the ones that you buy in the store are never as good as the hospital one!
January 13, 2011 at 4:48 pm
lisa
I had been on complete bed rest for 3 days and they let me shower pretty much immediately after delivery and it was GLORIOUS. Even though I had none of the things mentioned above because my husband didn’t do great with collecting stuff on his own.
So I guess that’s one suggestion, if you find yourself in the hospital unexpectedly and have to send hubby home, make sure you write a VERY DETAILED LIST. Or else you might be washing your hair with baby wash while the nurse digs up a comb of mystery origin for you.
The robe was pretty critical to me in the hospital, I stayed in a hospital gown for the first day cause if I was going to mess something up, I’d rather it be their laundry 🙂 So the robe was crucial for covering my mesh panty clad booty. I also used the super giant pads for a good while because they were softer and more comfortable to me, so I’d suggest maybe bringing more of those home than you think you’ll need.
January 13, 2011 at 4:58 pm
go4hockeychick
yeah, most hospitals are NOT ok with the stealing of receiving blankets.
January 13, 2011 at 5:03 pm
Molly
Interesting! Mine handed me a stack to go! Ok…ask first 🙂
August 24, 2013 at 8:02 pm
Kristie Robertson Bradley
Mine gave me a stack also.
September 6, 2013 at 2:06 pm
Red
Uh, it’s not stealing when your getting charged for it via your medical insurance. I don’t know that I would ask for more since the little crib that you are using comes with like 3 or 4 and people usually give you way more blankies than you will ever use. Hospitals are private businesses and they charge for every thing you use during your stay, so explain to all of us how it is we are stealing from the hospital as though they are a charity organization?
November 8, 2014 at 7:51 pm
Andie
I’m a L&D/Nursery/Postpartum nurse and the blankets are not charged for at any of the 3 hospitals where I have worked. They are laundered and reused, as all linens are. Taking one isn’t so much frowned upon, but taking more is totally wrong unless the nurses(plural- as in more than one nurse) tells you that it’s alright to take them. Non-reusable items are meant to be taken home…especially things that have been opened. So, don’t take home the phone, clock, pillows, gowns, sheets, blankets, and washable under pads (aka linen savers) unless you are specifically told that it/they is/are yours to take.
January 13, 2011 at 5:15 pm
Rachel R
great comprehensive list. I had a planned c-section, so I too did not wear any actual clothes until going-home day. I read most of the comments, so forgive me if this is a repeat – but we could not live without our Itzbeen. You can get it at target (and bru too i assume) for like $17. The itzbeen is a neat little electronic device, about the size of a large cell phone, and you can track the feedings, diaper changes, sleep, etc. The nurses were constantly wanting to know when our daughter had last eaten, peed, pooped, etc. This was much easier for us than a notebook. We had also brought our own baby bottle. I had planned to breastfeed, but I wanted a BF-friendly bottle (special nipples, closer to breast-like) in case we had to supplement. and lo and behold – we DID have to supplement when our daughter’s blood sugar too low, so I was happy we had our own bottle. Ok, that’s all I can think of for now
January 13, 2011 at 8:08 pm
Sara
If having a c-section, clothes really aren’t going to cross your mind until the day you go home. I didn’t even get out of bed until the day after, and that was AWFUL. Seriously – when your insides are removed from your body during surgery, your abs are going to revolt when you try to use them to do anything.
That being said, standing and basically moving made me feel horrible. Brought hair dryer, flat iron, make-up, etc. and didn’t touch any of it.
Our hospital gave us basically anything we wanted when leaving – just ASK! We must have had 10 receiving blankets, packets and packets of the mesh undies, diapers, formula, pump bottles, everything.
Most of all, be realistic about what you’ll use. And don’t take any clothes you like too much, because regardless of how you deliver, it’ll likely get ruined.
January 13, 2011 at 8:17 pm
almosthousebroken
I dont know about giving birth (yet!!!) but I sure know after my surgery I took home THREE pairs of those mesh boy shorts, awesomely awful.
January 13, 2011 at 10:06 pm
Sarah
OH good timing, Molly! We were JUST talking about packing our bag this weekend. Thanks for the food for thought – speaking of… yes, SNACKS are a must! 🙂
January 14, 2011 at 12:07 pm
mb
Eek! At nearly 29 weeks preg, this makes me anxious! But, like, in a good way. Anyway, totally printing this off for reference… and then most likely shoving it in a drawer for another month and a half or so until I really need to start thinking about this. Baby steps! 😉
January 14, 2011 at 12:30 pm
Wiz
I think this list is right on! We took everything from the hospital as well. Our nurse was awesome. She even brought us a whole pack of extra newborn diapers to take home as well as everything else we had already grabbed.
And I second the newborn clothes. I only brought size three months because I thought that there was no way my big baby would fit in newborn. He was swallowed by the 0-3 month outfit I brought to take him home in!
I packed my hospital bag early but left a list on top with the things that needed to be packed later that we were currently using (like the camera and toiletries.) I had to go straight from work to the hospital and my husband was sent home to get the bag. He saw the list and saw toiletries and he JUST PACKED HIS….go figure 🙂
January 14, 2011 at 3:47 pm
Jennifer
About the receiving blankets….take some! They are great for swaddling because they are just a bit bigger than the regular receiving blankets you buy at the store. It was against hospital policy to take any blankets or shirts, but we took a blanket and shirt. We wish we would have taken more blankets.
If you plan on pumping, ask to use the hospital pump. You will get to keep the extra tubing and parts.
January 17, 2011 at 8:58 am
Kate
I spent three weeks in the hospital prior to an emergency c section. My snoogle pillow and a humidifier were LIFE SAVING. For NICU moms, a notebook (1 per child) to write detailed notes about procedures and meds etc is a must. I was so out of it, I don’t remember a lot of what my twins went thru during their first few days. The notebooks were a great place to keep track of what is happening, which doctors and nurses are attending etc.
January 18, 2011 at 1:29 pm
LKP
Oh Lord…I almost hate myself for asking. What the what is a perry bottle??
August 22, 2013 at 10:47 am
LSW
It’s a thin plastic squirt bottle you use to spray yourself after going to the bathroom. You’re unable to wipe, just pat dry instead.
January 21, 2011 at 11:06 am
Caitlyn
Hi Molly! I’m actually the one who asked this question, and I’m 31 weeks now. I tend to be a list-maker, so I’ve been taking detailed notes from your post and from the comments! I know that it’s still a bit early for me, but I’d like to pack my bag as soon as I possibly can just in case. I’m also planning to work up until I give birth, so I’m debating whether to keep the bag in my car or whether to leave it in my fiance’s car (since he will obviously be meeting me there).
Thank you so much for reposting this and updating it! Only a few more weeks to go!
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June 18, 2013 at 12:35 pm
Amanda
Love the part about wearing pads the size of down comforters. I’m due with my third child in two weeks and that just made me laugh out loud. It’s so true! And those mesh undies are a lifesaver. Thanks for the post 🙂
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Baby#2-81413
I would add baby book for getting foot prints!
July 23, 2013 at 12:09 pm
christina
Definitely ask for extra numbing spray. Mine ran out like the day after leaving the hospital. Also, I was provided these ice pack pads that were wonderful! And if they provide them, Tuck pads are a necessity. They help with the sting that accompanies any stitches or general pain. Ask for extras or buy them and some witch hazel in advance to bring with to the hospital.
January 17, 2014 at 12:09 am
thiggle
The ice pack pads were AMAZING!!!! And the Tucks were very nice too! I had a 4 degree tear, do the bottle was nice too 🙂 My first was almost 11 pounds and delivered V. I thought I was pretty well packed. The cloths barely fit him though, nobody expected him to be that big. The nipple cream for breastfeeding mommas is a good idea too, it’s small enough to have as a just in case. I also had my own water bottle, the cup provided by the hospital wasn’t big enough for me.
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August 20, 2013 at 10:00 pm
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I used baby shampoo for my showers in the hospital after my vaginal birth and 2 c-sections. Also, get as many nasal plungers as you can they are the best. You’ll use them until your baby is about 3.
August 22, 2013 at 7:18 pm
sheila
Earplugs! Hospitals are not quiet places and i am a very light sleeper. I wouldn’t have gotten any sleep at all if i hadn’t brought earplugs. I slept right through the nurses checking on the baby at all hours of the night, the laundry carts rolling by (my room was right next door to the laundry room) and a blood draw. Yes, i slept through a blood draw. That’s how tired i was. I told my nurses i was wearing them and they woke me up if necessary. My husband stayed in the room with me and he woke me up if the baby cried, when he (the baby) wasn’t in the bed with me.
I brought my own clothes, but didn’t end up using them until i went home. It was easier to just stay in the hospital gown and i didn’t want to ruin my own clothes. I didn’t care what i looked like by then anyway.
I did bring makeup with me too, but like the clothes, i didn’t use it until going home day. Way too much work after having popped out a baby!
August 27, 2013 at 12:59 am
Haliegh
I havent went threw and read all the comments but for c sections, I was begging to take home a hospital gown because all I had were nursing shirts, no dresses or nightgowns for nursing. you absolutely cannot wear anything over your incision more than the hospital panties, I brought a couple nursing tanks and yoga pants… bad idea. if you plan to nurse, invest in nursing dresses to wear at least a week or 2 after c section. Even if you dont plan to nurse, still need dresses.
December 12, 2013 at 5:39 am
Sar
Dresses are amazing when you have c sections, I couldnt wear anything but a dress after my c section and I always tell my friends who are having babies to take a dress in to hospital with them just in case they do end up having a c section as its the only thing you can wear that wont hurt your incision
August 30, 2013 at 10:52 pm
V
Since most women don’t feel like eating during labour, but still use a lot of energy. To ensure I had enoughfluids, electrolytes and calories (I.e. energy) I drank coconut juice. Worked great. Oh, and don’t forget to patch a lip chap!
August 31, 2013 at 5:57 am
Jessie
I had the worst case of post birth hemorrhoids the doctors at my hospital had seen! Not cool, very painful (worse than labor for me), so I didn’t get to shower right away & after I finally got help from the nurse with a shower I couldn’t sit up to brush my hair, so I put it up in one turban looking towels (my mom found it at Walmart) & that was nice! Even if you don’t have my problem a hair towel is nice, small & doesn’t take up much room in your bag!
September 1, 2013 at 8:43 pm
Lauren
I would check with the hospital about diapers and clothes. Here in SK they only gave us so many diapers and then we either had to use their chinsy pin diapers or buy our own and the clothes they gave us were these aweful wrap shirts!
September 25, 2014 at 1:11 pm
T.O.
Do you mean SK as in Saskatchewan, Canada? If so, what city were you in?
September 4, 2013 at 10:21 am
bead0812
Thank you so much im so nervous about what to bring, How early should i pack my bag?
September 11, 2013 at 7:46 pm
Melissa
I would say a good 2-3 weeks before your due date! I have 3 children and I went into labour at 37 weeks for my last. You will feel much better when the time comes knowing you are prepared. Also bring lip balm in the delivery room they can get very chapped while doing your breathing. Hope that’s helpful! 🙂
November 12, 2013 at 12:17 am
Aleah Nichole Elliott
I went into labor 2 weeks before my due date with my first.. I literally just got done packing my bag the night before my water broke!!! I will most definitely be packing it as soon as my ninth month hits next time… very great article 🙂 better than others I have read… I will be more prepared for my second..
September 7, 2013 at 8:24 am
Lisa
This is a great list. I would add bring your own roll or two of 3-ply toilet paper. The peri bottles are really good, but you still have to pat dry and, believe me, soft tp feels SO much better than the cardboard paper the hospitals supply. Also, bottled water. Hospital water is gross! Plus, with all those hormones swirling around, your senses are heightened and taste will be one. Think drinking chlorinated pool water -yech!! Happy birthing, y’all 🙂
September 8, 2013 at 10:21 pm
Nicole f
Another thing to bring for baby is mittens so they can’t scratch their faces! I also brought DVDs since the hospital cable isn’t the best and after I got my epidural there was a lot of downtime before baby came
September 9, 2013 at 10:33 am
Alison
After my first, (unplanned c-section) my sister brought me “c-section underwear” from the maternity store. They are basically very high-rise compression stocking-like undies. For me, I liked that the incision was covered and slightly compressed. I have since bought packs for two friends who had c-sections.
After my second, an overnight vaginal birth, I wished so much I had ear plugs. My husband even asked the nurse if they had any. After being awake all night I was in a double room with a young mom who invited all her high school friends to come meet her baby. All I wanted to do was sleep but they were very loud!
September 9, 2013 at 5:16 pm
Allison'sMommy2013
I’m about 31 weeks… and was wondering about when should you begin packing your hospital bag…?????
September 11, 2013 at 8:13 am
littlerunnergrl
I have been working on our hospital bag this week…I have to have 2 bags packed…my Emergency bag that stays in my car (I am 34 weeks and could be induced as early as Friday!) and the “It’s time!” bag. One addition: LIP BALM! Also, a sleep mask, and yes to the ear plugs!
As a side note…the mesh undies, cannot say enough good things about them! I had surgery for Endometriosis 3 years ago (same incision as a c-section) and I asked for like 10 pairs of the mesh undies…they were a blessing.
September 11, 2013 at 9:41 pm
Katie
Great list! Thanks for sharing:) it’s been 4 years so I needed to have a quick run through again! With my last I ended up having to bring my breast pump because she was in the NICU and wasn’t able to eat by mouth so they had me pump, so its always good to bring just in case. I also brought my own throw blanket which was nice and cozy 🙂
September 13, 2013 at 1:05 am
Ann
Hair ties, lip balm, gum and socks were must-haves for me. I also kept two of the waterproof pads that were laid under me. I found them to be very helpful with changing the baby. They absorbed the baby’s urine during mid-changing accidents, rather than allowing it to pool at the baby’s back. 9 times out of 10, they saved me from having to do entire wardrobe changes… especially at night.
September 13, 2013 at 2:53 pm
Christy
Wow, I’m so glad I ran into this blog and all the comments really helped, I am 38 and having my 3rd….my first was 16 years ago and the second was 9 years ago…to say the least a lot has changed, but one thing that doesn’t is you still have a baby the same way. Thanks for all the advise…I forgot about all the little things..like chapstick, hair ties, gum, socks, the mesh undies…and those pads as big as downy comforters…anyway, thanks for the help…
September 20, 2013 at 9:51 pm
Robin
I had an unplanned c-section. I had my mom run out and buy me ladies Depends instead of having to deal with pads (she’s totally right about all the fluids) what a lifesaver! So much easier to deal with and they absorb more than even the largest pad. For tracking wet and soiled diapers and feeding sessions I used the What to Expect Baby App on my iPad. This was key because the nurses and doctors are forever asking you how many, how often, how long… And I was so tired (and a bit spacey from the pain meds) that I simply could not keep track otherwise.
October 10, 2013 at 12:21 am
Lindsey
I brought fiber bars (Fiber Plus) to help get things going after birth. I felt like someone was asking me every 5 minutes if I had passed gas yet! Once I could say yes, they left me alone about it LOL 🙂
October 15, 2013 at 11:06 am
babymama
That’s a good list but I also brought movies and a book to read I had a lot of down time and my son slept a lot especially right after birth. I suggest trying to do it all natural because with all the adrenalin running through you I felt I could run a marathon after his birth and this girl don’t run unless being chased! Lol
November 12, 2013 at 1:54 pm
Claire S
I felt the same way after my natural birth! As soon as my hour with my little one was up, I jumped out of bed and practically ran for the shower to get all the nasties off of me. We were discharged 30 hours after delivery (Only because I gave birth at 4 AM and needed to wait on my Rhogam shot, otherwise I’d have been good to go after 24)
With my first, I had pitocin and an epidural. I felt like I’d been hit by a damn bus, run over by tractor trailer, and then had a cargo plane land on me. I wasn’t even up to getting out of bed (Literally couldn’t support myself) for 12 hours after birth. Showering was a nightmare… Bled like crazy for 3 MONTHS afterward.
Seriously people, you CAN have a natural labor and it’s not just a martyr thing, it actually is a LOT more comfortable afterward.
February 25, 2014 at 9:25 am
Jen
This is exactly why I am going natural!! Thanks for sharing 🙂
October 30, 2013 at 9:12 pm
Heather G.
Loved this list!!! I also read through all the comments. I am currently pregnant with my fifth but have previously had 1 vaginal and 3 cesareans. Each woman’s body is different. With each delivery I was showered and dressed within 24 hours, and home within 48 hours. If you have a planned c-section ask your Dr. about a wrap for your stomach/incision. I did not have a wrap until my last section and it was amazing!! It’s similar to the pregnancy Velcro support bands but much wider. Thanks for putting this list together. Pinning now so I can refer to it before my next delivery.
November 3, 2013 at 2:38 pm
Christie
I had a c-section with a 10lb 7oz baby. I wore depends instead of the mesh panties. With depends it’s impossible to have a leak and they don’t/can’t roll into your incision. The nurses at my hospital said it was fine once I was up and walking.
November 3, 2013 at 2:41 pm
Christie
I’d also recommend an it’s been timer. The hospital I delivered at only gave pain meds when you asked for them. The timer helped is keep up with the babies diapers and feeding a and my meds without having to write anything down.
November 10, 2013 at 12:23 pm
Malinda
I have to disagree with the mesh undies. I hated them!!!! They were too tight since I am plus size. I am pretty sure they are what caused my allergic reaction that made the skin peel from between my legs, down my thighs. Two weeks of steroids for me.
January 18, 2016 at 12:01 am
Erin
Agreed…definitely NOT one size fits all! I was a size 16-18 when I gave birth to my daughter & the nurse aide had to split the legs so they’d fit & even then I felt like a stuffed sausage! Thankfully I had brought some Depends & they saved me. Once the bleeding slowed some, I wore them & they were so much more comfortable than the thunder pads, which seemed to just push on my tender parts when I sat down.
November 18, 2013 at 10:44 pm
heather
I work at a hospital and with all what she posted amd said what you need is true. But I do the birth certificates at the hospital and I can’t tell you how many mothers don’t have a place or a folder to keep paper work in. So my advice would be to also have a little ziplock for the babies braclet for when u get discharged from the hospital. And also somewhere to keep all the important paperwork. Pens are needed all the time. So have that as well. 🙂
November 25, 2013 at 4:13 pm
Susan
I would say bring an extra sleeper for the baby in addition to the going home outfit. My first was admitted to the NICU, and they put her in a charity sleeper because all I brought was her going home clothes, and they needed a sleeper. I made my husband drive home and get one of our sleepers. Baby clothes take up almost no space, and it’s a good just in case item.
December 2, 2013 at 11:43 pm
Ellie
These few items were like gold when I was in the hospital with my first in December 2011. I had a difficult vaginal delivery and had a full episiotomy because of the suction cup. So I am definitely packing this time around the following: Chap stick (which is a must during labor!!! The hospital is so dry.) And for the just in case chance that I tear or need another episiotomy, Witch hazel, non stick pads and Hurricane gel. The witch hazel helped with the healing and did not sting, and the hurricane gel helped numb my lady parts as they were healing. I wore non stick pads saturated with witch hazel and hurricane gel for about three weeks straight, It definitely made the healing time much easier!!!
December 8, 2013 at 11:08 am
Jen
I read through almost all the posts, and they were great, so I am sorry if I repeat anything. I am 31 weeks on baby #2. One thing I found super helpful with the gross fluid situation was depends. I know, it sounds horrible, but I felt safer from leakage and since I had a vagina birth I didn’t have to worry about any belly incisions. I could just throw them away when I was done with them. They were less bulky feeling than the enormous pads and made me feel a little more protected all around. Just a thought.
December 23, 2013 at 10:48 am
Tazmine Kloeppel
Just a quick question about towels for after the shower… Will they provide for me & the hubby as we’ll or just for me, or neither?
January 15, 2014 at 4:33 pm
Holli
My hospital provided the towels for me, but not every hospital is the same. I would call them and ask before you get there.
December 23, 2013 at 3:33 pm
Cameron Carrier
One of the things my hospital gave me last time that I bought myself this time was Medi-pads with Witch Hazel. They’re usually used to help with hemroid discomfort and soothing but they helped so much after having 2nd daughter. Both my kids were huge, 10lbs 2oz and 11lbs 8ozs, delivered both vaginal and tore terribly. 40 stitches later the perry bottle, numbing spray, and my little meditation pads were my BFF. Also think about bringing an additional bigger blankly to cover the car seat with when you leave the hospital in case its rainy or windy. I live in Washington state so that’s pretty much a given. We ended up getting smart and buying one that Velcro to the car seat handle. I am currently 4 days over due with my 3rd so my bag is packed and ready to go. Its normal to feel like you’re forgetting something. Make sure to get sweats for your significant other. I didn’t think about him at all the first time around. I am also bringing a book with me this time as I got very bored watching tv last time and had only brought one magazine. Neither of my stays in the hospital have resulted in very much sleep in my experience. I only nursed though and every time your baby wakes up you’ll want to take advantage of getting that skin to skin connection with them. Not only that but the nurse comes in like every 2 hours to take your vitals. Yes to the snacks!! Since I didn’t sleep much I got hungry in the middle of the night when the kitchen was closed. Luckily my hospital has a little cafe in it and they provide these little sack lunchs almost with a sandwich, chips, applesauce, and a cookie but rather than the nurse having to go hunt one down it wouldve just been easier to have some on hand. Also ladies, having babies as big as mine is not usual I do t want to scare anyone. My husband is a big guy and I’m fairly tall for a woman so my babies just have lots of room to grow like a goldfish. Newborn clothes fit our first who was 10lbs for about 2 weeks. But with the second who was 11.5lbs nothing fit her, the nurses had to go on a wild goose hunt for a bigger hat, and size 1 diapers, we had to put socks on her hands because none of the little mittens fit her. I was glad I brought a 0-3 outfit for the just incase. Keep in mind to that they will lose weight right after they’re born while they are getting the hang of nursing. Good luck ladies!!
December 29, 2013 at 2:03 pm
Jamie
Bring depends underwear! It is ALOT more comfortable and easier to use than the mesh undies and teetering in the mountain of a pad.
January 10, 2014 at 7:57 pm
Jamie
I didn’t read all the comments but im having my first baby and ive heard that if you wear depends its a little nicer than the mesh undies and pads. You can probably still wear the pads in the depends but I plan on bringing some of those! 🙂 Just a thought.
January 10, 2014 at 7:57 pm
Jamie
Now that I look above my comment I see that the previous poster, also named Jamie had written that! duh me.
January 17, 2014 at 12:07 am
Justine Kougl
I am loving your blog! Great advice! Great list! FYI – I used men’s boxer briefs for the first 2 weeks after baby. Kept those big girl pads in place and were very comfortable after baby! Check out my blog as well at http://www.themontanaranchadventure.com !
January 24, 2014 at 9:35 pm
Charlene
I brought Depends with me for baby #2. Greatest idea I had. Like mentioned before..there are a LOT of fluids. The massive pads they give you like to shift from time to time and, honestly, you won’t always notice when they do. The mesh undies don’t help it either. Note: you will feel awkward walking around in adult diapers but you won’t have to worry about an “accident” happening when you start moving around.
February 1, 2014 at 12:17 pm
Marissa
Great list! I would add pajamas for baby. The hospital supplies a hat and tshirt for baby, but our daughter was so much more comfortable (and slept better!) in the fleecy footsie pjs we brought from home. Once she was dressed in “real pajamas,” we swaddled her in the hospital blankets, and also covered her up with a minky blanket from home. I delivered in January so it was really cold outside, and the hospital wasn’t always warm. We started dressing her on day two of our hospital visit because she was checked and prodded by the hospital staff quite a bit on her first day, just like me. Once she was in her real pjs, the nurses were really awesome about it and put bows in her hair for us! 🙂
I had a c-section, but wore leggings for the remainder of my stay after they took my catheter out. In fact, I’m still wearing leggings daily and our daughter is three weeks old 🙂 Once I was mobile, they only checked me once per shift.
I also second the stool softeners and laxatives!!! Miralax saved my life!!!!
Good luck!!
February 14, 2014 at 7:51 am
Steph
Bring toilet paper for before delivery. It is true you won’t be using it after, but I sure did miss quality toilet paper during labor! I brought flushable wipes the second time around.
February 16, 2014 at 7:39 pm
creationsbyangelblog
Just a quick comment. Don’t know if anyone else said it but with my last one she was a sweater…i don’t mean the knitted kind and i didnt bring enough clothes. so I suggest bringing at least 2-3 more onesies/sleepers than you think you’ll need bc they don’t like the babes in sweaty clothes. That’s all. Good luck with you next one.
February 17, 2014 at 11:32 am
Kel
Baby will need an outfit for pictures taken at the hospital.
February 26, 2014 at 8:40 pm
Chloe
Hi, does anyone have any tips for moms to be who won’t have their spouse or family to help with things? My husband will be deployed when our first daughter is born and all family lives out of state. I think it might be difficult to carry all these things in/out of the hospital. Any advice would be appreciated. 🙂
February 27, 2014 at 7:50 am
creationsbyangelblog
I have a carryon with wheels for my post partum stuff on which..slung over the handle I will be putting a bag for baby( you dont need alot so I just have a small bag) and a bag for during labour stuff.
I have been induced three times and usually drive myself to hospital so I’ve become pretty adept at making it into hospital by self with stuff.
As far as after birth I’m sure the nurses will watch baby( or maybe you have a friend to help) and then just take stuff back out to car first and then go back out with baby.
Hopefully that helps. Just my two cents worth.
March 24, 2014 at 12:08 am
Tory
Another thing is if you don’t have a boppy pillow you can take the hospitals. We already had one but it was nice to have two once we got home.
March 26, 2014 at 3:41 am
Cindy
I haven’t found the other comments yet but I NEED to add this to your list. My husband & I had twins July 2012 & are expecting a surprise July 2014. With the twins I had a C-section (as I did with my 8yr old in 2005) but crazy stuff happened after that I didn’t expect. I retained 15lbs of fluid & my thighs legs & feet were swollen like never before. I couldn’t even wear the hospital socks in the biggest men’s size they had (& they cut slits & everything). I also had a reaction to the pads. My suggestions are to bring the Always Overnight Maxi Pads that have the purple wrap, they hold a lot of fluid. Also some slippers that are too big just in case your feet swell. Our hospitals baby wipes were awful, I brought my own & was glad I did. I also had someone buy a bunch of preemie gowns & bring them cuz the twins came 4 weeks early. Also some Carters preemie sleepers cuz they run true to size. No one plans to have an emergency C-section just food for thought, I didn’t with my 1st.
April 28, 2014 at 2:37 am
stephanie
The only thing I would add and have used for my previous pregnancies (I am on baby number three first trim) something to sooth sore breasts some sort of nipple cream to ease the transition into nursing.
May 18, 2014 at 5:51 am
Charli
I had a c-section & was able to shower the day after delivery. I definitely recommend removing the dressing over your incision in the shower (the nurse said it was ok, I had staples in place). The tape turns to glue on your skin so the water helps loosen it up a whole lot.
June 21, 2014 at 7:09 pm
Bree
I had a c section and my first shower after having it my husband had to help because I was so tired and out of it from the drugs. I also have birth 5wks early but still. A hoodie or zip jacket for mom is a must and messy undies they give you are a god send
July 13, 2014 at 8:32 pm
Leonor
Hi I’ve been reading a lot of bag packing advice out there and everyone says to pack yoga pants but my whole pregnancy I’ve been loyal to maxi dresses since I can’t barely put on underwear on my own so my question is if it is absolutely necessary to bring pant can I just stick to the dress??
July 27, 2014 at 1:39 am
Brailey
I love this list, it’s great! I am 32 wks with my 3rd. The only thing I will be adding is an extra bag of clothes for baby, hubby, and me. We will leave it in the car and just have as an emergency bag. With my last delivery we ended up having to spend 5 days in the hospital and it was over an hour away from home so we ran out of clothes fast! My mother in law took everything home and washed for us and brought back but it was hard having to do that daily so I ended up having to wear the gown most of the time and I’m pretty small so it was annoying to have something so baggy on and it was can stanly falling off my shoulders and stuff. I think I may try the depends bc last time I bled a ton every time I would stand up. It would just start gushing out and after having a child you can’t exactly run to the bathroom for a towel! And I would suggest your breast pump if you plan on nursing. I was a milk machine from day one and had to pump and store milk at the hospital bc I was super engorged. And I would check to see what all your hospital provides first bc ours is a very small one and doesn’t have near the amenities I have read about in some of these comments, but I wish they did!!!
October 5, 2014 at 7:10 pm
Tabitha
I have 2 kids, almost 9 yrs old and 5 yrs old, and am currently 35 weeks pregnant with #3. I love this list!! I forgot little things the first time around and, sadly enough, forgot to pack going home clothes for me the second time. My husband had to drive home and get me an outfit, lol. The only thing I can think that I would add to your list that I didn’t see in the comments was your baby book. We took ours both times and the nurse that took the baby’s footprint for hospital records was more than happy to put one in our baby book as well, and while she was at it, she didn’t mind doing a baby handprint. One less thing to have to try to do on your own once you get home. The nurses do baby prints multiple times daily, so if you ask they usually do not mind taking care of that for you. Plus, their quality was much better than the ones I did once I got home. Also, someone mentioned clothes for pictures, for me, that is a MUST! I love taking pictures of my little newborn from day one and cute clothes from home look better in pictures than hospital t-shirts.
November 9, 2014 at 3:40 pm
Ashley
Bring your own sanitary pads! And high waisted granny panties if you have had a c-section! And for the love of everything that is good your own cushy and soft toilet paper! The hospitals toilet paper is pretty much like sand paper on you lady parts.
December 8, 2014 at 9:25 pm
Darby
My two must-haves: Bring your own towels (The hospital ones are so thin and small!) and an extension cord! There is never an outlet close to the bed for charging your phone/camera!
January 31, 2015 at 3:07 pm
Mollie
Your list is amazing. What you said about asking for things at the hospital Always ask for a reusable hot cold pack. They are a life saver!
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February 5, 2016 at 2:13 pm
Stephanie
Only thing that I would add is a fresh shirt for day because delivery and new baby’s are messy and it can make for awkward pics. Consider a button down so dad can have skin to skin too.
May 22, 2016 at 9:44 am
Laren
Numbing spray? For what?
July 10, 2016 at 2:39 pm
Kara
This is such a GREAT list! I am on #3 and can completely agree that all that extra nonsense on most other lists will just end up being clutter. The only thing I’d add is a plug in heating pad for the post partum contractions as the uterus shrinks. The heat helps so much. My hospital gave me some of the throw away chemical heating pads, but having one available to turn on whenever you need it would be much better.