10 Things a Future Mom Should Pack Before Going to the Hospital

When it's time for mom to go to the hospital, usually packing is one of the last things on her mind. When she's hit 38 weeks pregnant it can be a task just to move around without problem. Sex is probably out of the picture as well (guys, I have an article to help you deal with this), and simple tasks seem like a chore. In spite of all of these things, consider that you'll be in a hospital for potentially three or four days depending on how your delivery goes. Here are some things you should pack for your stay in the hospital:

Mom's Suitcase Item #1 - Underwear

Mom will need some fresh underwear after she delivers the baby; in particular, nursing bras. They will make it easier for mom to breastfeed baby while in the hospital if she desires to wear clothes (and not the hospital gowns). Otherwise, pack enough underwear for a three to four day stay.

Mom's Suitcase Item #2 - Robe

A comfortable plush robe will be mom's best friend, whether it's after a shower or just to walk down the hallways of the hospital. The hospital gowns often leave things out in the open and are what I would consider a semi-breach of privacy. Robes cover everything and they are warm. If you are preferential to being warm, definitely pack a robe.

Mom's Suitcase Item #3 - Snacks

After 12+ hours of ice chips and/or water, you'll want some snacks. Bring snacks that are easy to carry around - snack packs, trail mix, granola bars, bubble gum... things like that. Remember, small items that will fit in a portion of your suitcase without crushing or melting.

Mom's Suitcase Item #4 - Slippers

Plush slippers to match the plush robe will help mom walk around with ease. If you aren't able to do slippers, consider thick warm socks or footies.

Mom's Suitcase Item #5 - Comfortable Clothes

Cotton jogging suits should do the trick here. Leave out the business and formal attire; think casual and comfortable. Also think separate pieces like blouse and jeans, tank top and shorts. Avoid one-piece outfits unless they're very easy to get into. If you have a c-section anything involving stretching certain parts of your body may be a challenge to do at first so you'll need something easy to slip into.

Mom's Suitcase Item #6 - Phone Chargers

You'll get lots of calls from family and friends wanting information about the newborn child. Be sure to pack the phone charger so that you're able to keep your cell phone full of battery-life.

Mom's Suitcase Item #7 - Books & CDs

Unless you're a television watcher you'll need something to pass the time you're in the hospital after the baby is born. Sure, there will be the adjustment of changing diapers, feeding (breast or bottle), and adjusting your sleeping schedule, but during the first part of baby's life s/he is sleep more than they are awake. After you've taken your nap, eaten food, then what? Catch up on a book. Listen to some music. Bring about 2-3 books and CDs you won't mind reading or being interrupted by as relaxation methods.

Mom's Suitcase Item #8 - Blanket & Pillow

Sometimes the hospital linens aren't the most comfortable. For extra support and warmth, bring your own. Usually hospitals don't mind and they probably will provide extra of anything you ask of them, but if it helps you sleep better, bring your own.

Mom's Suitcase Item #9 - OTC Pain Medication

Depending on your method of delivery you may need some pain medication. If you are experiencing pain, ask your doctor or the nurse attending to you what you can take for pain. It is best to get the side affects of the medication being offered to you so you're not taking something blindly. Usually Tylenol, Advil, and Ibuprofen are offered over-the-counter and should handle most pain you might deal with.

Mom's Suitcase Item #10 - Breast Pumping Kit

You may run into the situation where you are producing milk faster than your baby is eating it, or you're not around your baby for a significant period of time for whatever reason. Begin to pump baby's milk if you're breastfeeding your baby. After a while your breasts will become engorged and may begin to hurt. Relieve the pain of engorgement by pumping milk out of your breasts. This doesn't have to be an isolated event. You can watch television (if there's one in your room), read a book, or a number of things while pumping. Your hands may be full if you're pumping both breasts simultaneously though.