Packing Your Hospital Bag

Trying to pack your hospital bag can be just as challenging as writing out your birth plan. It's impossible to know absolutely everything that you will need during your hospital stay. Depending on the circumstances surrounding your delivery, you might end up staying in the hospital longer than expected.

When I started packing my hospital bag I had a difficult time deciphering what was absolutely necessary to carry with me and what was pointless. I must have packed and unpacked my bag only to re-pack it at least a dozen times. Each time I packed it I was still doubtful whether or not I had chosen the right things.

Here is what I learned from not only my own experiences but also compiling experiences from friends:

-Pack What Makes You Comfortable: If you have a particular pillow that you absolutely adore, take it with you. If there is a scent of lotion, or a cd that you love, take it. Having things that will make you feel at ease during labor will help make it a pleasurable experience.

-Pack Cash: You probably won't need it, but your partner and family members will. Be sure to pack some extra cash, just to have it on hand for emergencies.

--Pack Socks: During labor, and after the delivery, your feet tend to get nice and frosty. Pack socks to help keep them warm.

-Pack Miniatures: Pack miniatures of your favorite lotion, soap, shampoo, conditioner, hair spray, or whatever beauty supply you will need.

Pack Hair Ties Or Headbands: During labor you will despise anything getting anywhere near the vicinity of your face. Being able to slip on a headband or pull your hair back will be a blessing.

Pack A Gown: You won't need it during labor (no need to ruin a perfectly good night gown), but you will most likely want it after delivery.

Pack Peppermints: You won't be allowed any food while in labor, so try peppermints instead. They help to keep your mouth moist, and provide enough flavor to tide you over until you get a real meal.

Pack Lip Balm: Your lips tend to get dry, either from panting, or licking them, so be sure to pack your favorite lip balm.

Pack A Going Home Outfit: Be sure, when picking your going home outfit, that you don't pack your pre-pregnancy jeans. As much as you might like to, you still won't fit in those for a few weeks or more. Be sure to pack your favorite maternity jeans or stretch pants instead.

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