I've realized there is a lot you can learn about yourself when you start packing your bags for D Day (delivery day). Marek and I are 37 weeks pregnant, which puts us right in that window of "things could get real" any day now. As I'm packing my bags, I realize I'm having this ridiculous fantasy about all of the things that are so meaningless to think about when a new life is coming into this world. I'm thinking, "What color do I want to have my nails painted? What should I do with my hair? Should I wear make-up and when would I even put it on?? Really, Coreen?!?
The reality is, if all goes well, I will be giving birth in a birthing center, medication free . . . A far cry from glamorous. But we all have our little fantasies! ;)
Before I can even begin to think about the fun stuff, it's all about the essentials. I looked through a ton of sample "hospital bag checklists" and also got some great suggestions from our birthing classes. With that, I've made a list of things I plan to bring with me to the birthing center.
FOR LABOR
- birth plan and maternity notes
- IDs, insurance cards and information
- dressing gown or robe
- non-skid socks or slippers
- comfortable clothes, old nightgown, or big t-shirt to labor in
- cotton bra or swimsuit top for the tub - sports bras are very difficult to remove when wet (for water birth)
- massage & essential oils, DIY massage tools (tennis balls, paint roller, etc.)
- pain/tension relief tools (I'm bringing a comb to squeeze while I'm in pain)
- heating pad (to relax tight muscles)
- lip balm
- snacks, candies, drinks & straws
- book, magazine, iPad
- hairband and/or headband
- pillow (dark pillow case)
- playlist
- camera, video camera, go pro, selfie stick, etc. (CHARGED batteries)
- 4 pre-washed receiving blankets. Place on top of items in gallon size ziplock bag. These are to dry the baby off with at birth.
FOR BIRTH PARTNER
- swimwear (for water birth)
- PERSONAL CARE ITEMS (toiletries)
- change of clothes
- comfortable shoes
- snacks and drinks
- cell phones and chargers
- list of who to call
- pen and notepad
AFTER BABY IS BORN
- PERSONAL CARE ITEMS: shampoo/conditioner, soap, face wash, flip flops, eyeglasses/contacts, deodorant, toothbrush/toothpaste, makeup & remover clothes, brush/comb
- comfortable outfit to go home in
- depend underwear for women
- breastfeeding notes or handouts
- nursing bra and breast pads
- nursing shirt
- nursing pillow
- night dress or pajamas
- plastic bags for dirty clothes
- natural throat lozenges
FOR BABY
- car seat
- going home outfits for baby in two sizes (all in one stretchy outfits are best)
- hat, mittens, socks, and blanket
- diapers (2 sizes), wipes and baby bottom balm
