It’s important to be prepared when giving birth. That means packing ahead of time so you don’t have to scramble for last-minute items.
You will be provided with a hospital gown and other freebies such as disposable mesh underwear or socks with grips by most hospitals. However, you can also bring your own.
Maternity hospital gown
We all love dressing up for special occasions. A birth is one such occasion that warrants a dress worthy of the occasion. That’s why many pregnant women pack a maternity hospital gown for their labor and delivery stay.
Unlike a regular hospital gown, this option is designed with easy access snaps and openings for doctors to monitor your baby and perform medical tests without exposing too much skin at once. It can also be used as a nursing dress after delivery to facilitate breastfeeding.
The front and back of this soft, breathable cotton/polyester blend gown have Velcro closures that extend the full length of both sides for ease of use. Its oversized tee-shirt style and inclusive size make it a great choice if you are pregnant plus-size.
While your hospital will probably provide you with a maternity hospital gown, some women prefer to bring their own because it helps them feel more comfortable and confident in their clothing choice. You can also take better photos of your baby and yourself before you leave the hospital by bringing your own gown. This makes it easier to send photos and updates to friends and family once you’re home.
Hydration
Pregnant women need more water than they would if they weren’t. This is because you need more fluids to supply the needs of both you and your baby.
Dehydration is a serious concern and can be life threatening to both you and your baby. Dehydration during pregnancy can increase the likelihood of low birth weight, miscarriage, or premature labour.
If you feel dehydrated, such as diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhoea then seek immediate medical attention. Drinking lots of water will help you hydrate, and you should also pay attention to the color of any urine.
Preterm labor is any labor that occurs before 37 weeks. It can also be prevented by staying hydrated. A woman who is properly hydrated is more likely to go into labor naturally, which reduces the risk of having an epidural and other types of pain medication.
You can drink water, tea, milk, or juice to stay hydrated. You should aim to drink eight 8-ounce glasses of water per day.
Hair ties
Hair ties are one of those items that we often overlook or forget to pack, but they’re essential for a number of reasons. Your hair can get tangled around the neck and face during labor, which can cause discomfort and pain.
The best hairties will allow you pull your strands back and not cause any damage or breakage. There are different types of ties, so it’s important to understand what works for your specific hair type and style goals.
You want a tie that won’t get ripped or snagged. It should also be strong enough to withstand daily wear and tear. A thick band is essential for hair that isn’t prone to slipping and that will keep your hair in place if you have coarse or thick hair.
Luckily, there are many options for a wide variety of hair types and styles, so you should be able to find a hair tie that suits your needs. Some of the most common types include no-crease hair ties, elastics covered with various fabrics, and scrunchies. The latter can add a personal touch to your look and help keep your hair in place without causing damage.
Car seat
Car seats are an essential part of keeping babies safe. You need to ensure your baby is properly strapped in, whether you are driving from the hospital or taking your baby with you to the pediatrician.
There are two main types of child seats: infant-only (which you’ll need to replace once your baby weighs 22 to 35 pounds, depending on the type of seat) and convertible seats that accommodate both infants and older children. Many parents find it useful to purchase a “travel system” that includes both an infant-only and stroller.
It’s important to read the manual before you buy a new car chair. This will explain how to properly install the seat and ensure that it meets safety standards.
A seat with cushion side impact protection is another thing to look out for. This will protect your baby’s head from hard objects in the event of a crash, which can help prevent injuries like brain damage.
Also, make sure your child’s harness is snug and secure enough for their weight. Bulky winter clothing may make it difficult for your baby to fit the harness properly.
Birth plan
A birth plan is a document which outlines your preferences for labor and delivery. It’s not a requirement, but it can help you feel more prepared and empower you to make decisions during your pregnancy and delivery.
A well-crafted plan can help you communicate your wishes and goals to all those involved in your birth. This includes your doctor and midwife, as well as the people who will be present during labor and delivery.
While there are many pre-made plans available online, it is recommended to write your own birth plan. It can be as simple as you want or as complex as you need.
You can list your preferences, whether you prefer a natural birth or pain medication. This will help you stay informed and make the experience more pleasant for both you and your baby.
When creating a birth plan, be flexible. Your health care provider may disagree with some of the details. However, it is important that you discuss all options before labor begins. It’s a good idea for you to tour the hospital or birthing facility where you will give birth. Talk with your care team about your options and what you may be able to do during labor.