Packing the hospital bag is one of the most significant milestones for an expecting mother. As her due date approaches, and the anxiety of delivery increases, the pressure to pack everything important inside her bag also increases. Do you know what items to pack for your postpartum recovery? Don’t worry, we have a checklist for you!
If you think you can just grab your essentials for a hospital bag on your way out as your contractions start, think again. You may not be in a position – both physically and mentally, to run a checklist in your mind and tick off items.
Your hospital bag with all postpartum essentials should be ready at least three weeks before your due date. This will ensure you are prepared even in case of sudden labour pain or if the baby decides to come early.
Most women only think of items for the baby. They may pack just the bare minimum for themselves and forget about items they may need for their recovery. Even when you go through checklists online or ask someone, they will give you a list of items the baby will need. What about the mother?
Here are a few important comfort items for new mothers. Don’t miss packing them in the hospital bag:
1. Adult diapers – In case of a caesarean section or complications in the delivery, you may not be able to visit the toilet as and when you want. Many women don’t have full control over their bladders soon after a vaginal delivery either. Wearing a diaper can reduce the need to strain your abdominal muscles to get off the bed every time and also avoid accidents.
2. Disposable Underwear—When you get back home, you are bound to have a lot of laundry to deal with. Disposable underwear can reduce that load a little and is very soft over sutures, too.
3. Sanitary Pads—For the next few days, you will continue to bleed like you are on your period. Tampons and menstrual cups are not safe or comfortable during this time. Soft sanitary pads can really help.
4. Soft Towels – Use these to wipe off your breasts, nipples, or other parts of the body. Repeated wiping with rough materials can cause chaffing or skin irritation.
5. Comfortable Clothes—Carry two extra sets of clothes. They are sure to get soiled by baby spit-ups, medicines, body fluids, etc. Loose-fitting, breastfeeding-friendly clothes made of soft, breathable fabrics are the best for a new mom.
6. Nursing Items—Pack a few feeding bras of a size or two extra. Your breasts are bound to engorge with milk, so bigger-size bras will ensure you are comfortable and can breathe freely. Include a nipple cream, cotton swabs for wiping your nipples, and some massage cream in case the engorgement hurts.
7. Soothing Items—This can be a book, some good music (you need earphones for that), or just your phone and charger. You may not have much time, but you will want to de-stress. Pack things that help you relax and stay calm.
8. Toiletries – Most maternity hospitals give you all basic toiletries. When you are in the hospital at your most vulnerable self with all the physical discomfort and fluctuating hormones, using toiletries you like can make a big difference. Your favourite lip balm, soap, or toothpaste can ease your stress.
9. Accessories—A few hair ties, clips, hair serum, and a comb are necessary to hold all your hair in place. Looking well-groomed can boost your mood more than you can imagine. If the way you look in all those first pictures is important to you, you may also want to pack the accessories you want to wear when leaving the hospital with your baby.
If packing your postpartum bag weeks ahead of your delivery date sounds unnecessary for you, here is what you can do:
● Make a list of all the items you need at the hospital – before, during, and after delivery.
● If certain items are hard to find (e.g., specific brands of items, imported items), buy them in advance and stock them.
● Set aside things you may need as and when you see them. You can keep a separate box or pile in your cupboard and add items to it as and when you think of them.
● Let your partner or a near one know where your documents and reports are
● Rearrange your cupboard. Keep items you will need soon after delivery within easy reach, and put things you may not need on the higher racks for a while.
Packing your hospital bag a few weeks in advance can help you be prepared for the delivery. While the mode of delivery or what happens inside the delivery ward may not be in your control, your hospital bag definitely is. Having all the necessary items within reach can greatly reduce your stress levels.
Pack light clothes in breathable fabric to avoid excess sweating or chaffing. A light robe can help you cover up in case a doctor suddenly visits.
Opt to use only those things that are necessary and comfortable. Wearing loose clothes, exercising regularly, and drinking plenty of fluids can help speed up recovery.
Enquire in advance and get all your papers in order, including the forms you have to fill out after reaching the hospital or after the delivery. Check all your documents and collect your reports, including the discharge summary and birth certificates, before you leave the hospital. Also, note down the other paperwork you need to do after leaving the hospital and the deadlines for the same.
