WHAT’S IN MY HOSPITAL BAG THIS TIME? | PAGE 5 OF 6
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HOSPITAL BAG MUST-HAVE#5:
Comfy shoes or slippers. Hospital floors are dirty! I was so grossed out when I changed my socks the first time. YUCK! And they are usually cold too.
Times you’ll be out of bed while in the hospital:
- You’ll be up to the bathroom every couple hours to change your sanitary pad
- You might end up walking the halls, either during labor or after birth if you have a c-section
- I hope you don’t end up in the NICU; but, if you do, you’ll want to be steady on your feet
A slip-on style with a decent sole is my personal preference. They give shaky legs a little more stability. And if you can find some that will double well enough as shoes to get you to the car after you’re released, all the better!
I would recommend a less expensive pair while you’re in the hospital and more likely to have things drip on your shoes… I know… ew, gross! It gets better though.
HOSPITAL BAG MUST-HAVE#6:
Disposable breast pads. I do use washable breast pads most of the time; but, at the hospital, disposable is so much easier. It’s less to keep track of and less laundry when you get home.
There are lots of options in disposable breast pads and not all are made equally. Every mama has different needs and different preferences. So check out a few brands like Lansinoh, Philips AVENT, or Medela.
If you have friends that are expecting, see if they will split a small box of several different kinds and you can all figure out what kinds are your favorite. A good breast pad is a big deal for breastfeeding moms.
HOSPITAL BAG MUST-HAVE #7:
Nursing cover. Whether your’re shy or not when it comes to breastfeeding, a nursing cover can be nice to have.
I didn’t take a nursing cover the first time. I didn’t see a need for one. Until my clergy, who was visiting his wife while she was a work in the hospital, came up to visit and give his quick congratulations. I was attempting to breastfeed when he stopped in and that was a little bit awkward.
Breastfeeding can be hard, especially at first and I didn’t feel like everyone was watching me stumble through breastfeeding. Even you will not recognize your breasts once your milk comes in. No one wants to stare, but it’s just hard not to. I didn’t take a cover with my first baby, but did with the second and it was just a lot less awkward when family and friends came to visit.
My post on breastfeeding-friendly clothing might be helpful too. I’ve spent almost two years of my life breastfeeding and having the right kind of clothing can make a BIG difference. I promise.
If you are planning on breastfeeding, you’ll want to check out the next item. And guess what? Lanolin isn’t just for sore nipples. Click next to find out what else I use lanolin for.