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I had two planned c-sections here is my list: - extra long phone charging cord - 2.5 tog or warmed sleep sacks for baby because I can't swaddle for the life of me - slippers, with at least a grippy bottom, that are one size larger than you normally wear - shower supplies - basic toiletries like hairbrush, toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, anything to help you feel refreshed - snacks - high waisted and loose fitting sweats for the drive home - sleeper to bring baby home and if you want to do any special photos - breast pump and cleaning supplies if your hospital won't supply you with one or you have one you prefer - small air mattress, pillow, and blanket for hubby because those chairs they can sleep in are not comfy!
Agree with items above and definitely have a big water bottle ready
My own towel was a major must-have for myself. The hospital towels were and felt so small and thin.
And anusol just in case - the pushing gave me hemorrhoids- the hospital only had ice pad, so the tablets and ointment would have been nice to have had right away
Earplugs. Sounds silly but after you had a baby you're exhausted and if you're stuck in a semi- private room the other person and their baby might keep you up all night. I slept 15min 1 day pp at the hospital and 25min the second day. Bring earplugs.
@Charlotte and @Ashlee Thank you ladies!!! I appreciate it!
I would suggest a lighter sleep sack - the nurse told me I was overheating my baby - hands should be slightly cool to the touch
Breastfeeding cushion/pillow as well
@Julia @Wynona @Bry Thank you ladies!! I never even thought of the towel situation.
I brought earbuds for when baby was sleeping or with hubby/family and I needed a break. I regret not bringing an eye/sleep mask for myself. When family visited they wanted me to sleep because they knew I hadn't had much sleep, or when hubby was up but baby was quiet and I tried to nap, it was hard with the daylight
I had a vaginal birth, but dilated very quickly, so I didn't have a lot of time in labour. So my suggestions are more for after birth (we ended up staying at the hospital for 4 days). I am also in Ontario, Canada, so things could be different where you are, in terms of what is provided for you. My must haves: - eye mask for sleeping - slippers with grip - headphones and charger - phone and charger - tons of snacks - portable fan that can attach to the bed - extra pads, adult diapers, aloe Vera gel, fridamom witch hazel foam, and Tucks pads - shampoo, conditioner, body wash - hair brush and hair ties - bathrobe - comfy pjs that open down the front - my own pillow and extra blanket - breast pump - nipple balm Your partner will want his or her own versions of the above as well, especially snacks, as they only feed the birthing parent (at least where I am!)
I had an emergency c section. This time around, im hoping for a natural, but my must-have this time is a nurf gun to wake my husband and up. He woke up with a bunch of pillows and blankets on him that I threw. He's a very heavy sleeper. Even me calling his phone to help. We were in a semi private room, and I didn't want to yell at him. Also big water bottle, lotion, lip chap. I got so dry in the hospital. Extra long charger/battery pack. Your own pillow and / or blanket. Breastfeeding pillow (also great for you to use).
@Courtney nerf gun hahaha I love that so much. You sound like someone I could be friends with!
@Amanda thank you!
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@Kai thanks !!
I had an unexpected c-section (I found out the night before, when induction was found not to be the safe option). All I used from my over-stuffed bag was: - sleeping bag for my hubby (will pack a pillow next time) - tons of snacks for me and hubby - water bottle - toothbrush and toothpaste - cozy socks - a high rise pair of jammies to leave the hospital - a sleeper for baby - a soft blanket to wrap baby in - phone charger - book, to keep my mind busy while waiting for surgery - tablet, to watch a movie pre or post-surgery For context : I stayed in a hospital gowns during my 48hr stay and didn't shower until I got home. My hospital provided pads and a peri bottle.
Bring snacks for yourself and your partner, but don’t miss out or make excuses not to have your post-birth fun meal: sushi, subway, or whatever it is you’ve been missing. I regret saying it’s fine we’ll get it later to sushi and missing out on a fun memory.