Hospital Bag Prep for Breastfeeding Mothers
Getting ready for the arrival of your baby is an exciting time. One important task is packing your hospital bag. This guide will help you prepare everything you need for a comfortable stay at the hospital, especially if you plan to breastfeed.1
Essentials for Mom
- Comfortable Clothes: Pack loose, comfortable clothes for your stay. A soft robe, nightgown, your own postpartum underwear, and a few pairs of cozy socks or slippers will help you feel at home. Don’t forget a comfortable outfit to wear when you leave the hospital.
- Breastfeeding Bras: Breastfeeding moms need good support. Pack a few breastfeeding bras to help you feel comfortable.
- Glasses and/or contacts: You may be asked to remove these during labor, and it will help to have them afterwards.
- Toiletries: Bring your toothbrush, toothpaste, hairbrush, hair bands and any other personal items you use daily. Lip balm and lotion can also be very helpful, as hospital air can be dry.
- Important Documents: Make sure to bring your ID, insurance cards, and any hospital paperwork. If you have a birth plan, bring a few copies to share with the hospital staff as well as contact information for your baby’s healthcare provider.
- Phone and Charger: You’ll want to stay in touch with family and friends, and take lots of pictures of your new baby. An extra-long phone charger can be useful if the outlets are far from your bed.
- Music: A playlist of your favorite songs might be nice to have – bring headphones or earbuds as well!
Essentials for Baby
- Clothes: Pack a few outfits for your baby, including a going-home outfit. Make sure they are soft and easy to put on.
- Blankets: Bring a couple of baby blankets to keep your newborn warm and cozy.
- Diapers and Wipes: The hospital will provide some, but it’s always good to have a few extra on hand.
- Car Seat: You’ll need a car seat to bring your baby home. Make sure it’s properly installed in your car before you go to the hospital.
Optional Items
- Snacks and Drinks: Labor can be long, and hospital food might not always be what you want. Pack some of your favorite snacks and drinks to keep your energy up.
- Notepad and Journal: Can be helpful to jot down your thoughts and questions.
- Entertainment: Bring a book, magazine, or tablet to help pass the time during labor.
- Personal Comfort Items: Items like a favorite pillow, blanket, water bottle, or even a small fan can make your stay more comfortable.
Final Tips
- Pack Early: Aim to have your bag packed by the time you are 36 weeks pregnant. This way, you’ll be ready to go whenever your baby decides to arrive.
- Check with Your Hospital: Some hospitals provide certain items, so check with yours to see what they offer. This can help you avoid overpacking.
By preparing your hospital bag ahead of time, you can focus on the joy of welcoming your new baby into the world. Happy packing!
What If I Have Questions?
If you are interested in learning more, this Aeroflow class expands on some of the topics discussed above:
- Birth and Breastfeeding Part 1 & 2
To register for this class, log into your portal or click here.
Want More Info?
For a directory of Aeroflow’s other Care Guides offering information on pregnancy, baby care, and more, browse our comprehensive list of titles:
Our classes and accompanying materials are intended for general education purposes and should not replace medical evaluation or consultation. Please seek advice from your own healthcare providers for individualized recommendations.
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