What to pack in your hospital bag when giving birth & Postpartum Essentials
Giving birth is absolutely terrifying and amazing all at the same time. I had a C- Section with my first daughter and a VBAC with my second. Both of these births were completely different and required different things. I have included basic things to pack as well as what I recommend whether you are having a C-Section or a typical birth.One thing is certain, you don’t want to be unprepared and not pack enough. Even though it can be a hassle, I recommend over packing as your birth plan may not go the way you want it to and you may be required to stay at the hospital for a longer period of time. Here is what you to pack in your hospital bag and postpartum essentials.
What you'll need in your hospital bag
Two pairs of comfortable pajamas & a robe-
This may be an obvious one but try to pack at least two pairs of soft pajamas, preferably without an elastic waistband. Sleeping in a hospital bed is uncomfortable enough so try to pack pajamas you can sleep easily in. If you plan on breastfeeding, I recommend something breastfeeding friendly or a button down pajama shirt. You’ll also want to bring a robe to throw on when you have visitors come in as well as the many people that will be walking in and out of your hospital room. I really like these two options listed below for first time moms wanting to breastfeed. The pajama material is soft, comfortable, and easily allows access for baby to breastfeed. The robe is very soft and feels good against baby’s skin.
Loose Fitting clothing-
Depending on your birth plan, many moms know what they want to do as far as giving birth. If you have a c-section, you’ll need about four pairs of clothes. If you plan on giving birth vaginally, two pairs of clothes will usually suffice. I recommend going with a dress if it’s warm enough outside or loose fitting pants such as maternity pants that won’t be super tight against your body. Some women prefer leggings and others are able to walk out of the hospital in jeans, so it all comes down to preference and what you feel comfortable in. These postpartum leggings from Target were super comfortable for me and didn’t irritate me at all!
Phone Chargers/Electronics-
I preferred a longer phone charger that I could easily use while laying in the hospital bed as the outlets were far away. I also recommend bringing an Ipad or tablet of some sort if you prefer as you may get bored while your in labor or while your baby is asleep.
Toiletries-
Toothbrush, toothpaste, hair ties, hair brush, shampoo, conditioner, razor, body soap, body lotion, chapstick, face lotion, makeup (if you prefer), deodorant, blow dryer/hair tools, face wash, makeup removing wipes, floss, etc. Whatever you prefer to bring, you may not use it at all but it’s nice to have in case you decide to want it while you’re there. I just brought travel sized items as they are easier to carry.
Nursing Bra & Pump-
Nursing bras are definately not very stylish, but they are very convenient when breastfeeding. I also recommend bringing your pump. The hospital will usually have their own pump, but if you already have one, it’s best to bring it if possible so the nurses can show you how to use it. The lactation consultants will help you with trying to breastfeed and can show you how many times it’s needed per day to pump in order to build your milk supply. The hospital may provide you will lanolin cream, but I brought my own Earth Mama cream as it’s organic and I felt safer with it as baby might come into contact with it. Other things you will need (when home) are nursing pads, therapy packs, and milk storage bags. You don’t need to bring those three items to the hospital though. Here are my favorites listed below.
Postpartum Care
C-Section Essentials-
When I had a C-Section, I took about thirty pairs of the disposable underwear from the hospital. Make sure you ask for extras before you leave! Luckily if you don’t, lots of places sell them now like Target and Amazon. The Frida Mom C section kit comes with many things like a belly binder, disposable underwear, and scar patches. It really is the best bang for your buck!
Vaginal Birth Essentials-
Having a VBAC was a totally different experience that I was not expecting. Although I must say, the recovery was much easier! I needed more products to recover from my vaginal birth than I did my C section. Believe it or not, I bought EVERYTHING listed below and I used it all. I had a third degree tear so I was in a lot of pain and these are the only things that helped me! The Frida Mom ice packs, witch hazel foam, and sitz bath was definately the most important for me. I also really liked the Honey Pot postpartum pads. Here is what I recommend you get.
