A
female
age
36-40,
*ayla20
writes:I've seen loads of lists on what to pack in a hospital bag but it seems like loads of stuff. What are the main things I need to pack for during and after labour? Reply to this Question
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female
reader, Angzw  +, writes (16 March 2010):
I think it differs from country to country because some hospitals provide stuff. But definite essentials are 10 to 20 panties!! If you can buy those disposable ones then all the better. If not then bring your oldest granny full ones. Forget the pretty bikinis because you will probably throw away the panties after. Thick maternity pads. Video camera and digital camera ofcourse. Cellphone a must to bark orders at mum and boyf for odds and ends. A pretty warm cosy outfit for baby when checking out, a couple of diapers just in case, and also a car seat. In America they refused to discharge me without a car seat. I never get to use magazines and iPods that I've packed in the past but maybe you won't be as tired. Your favorite juices and fruits are also nice to have but maybe your partner can bring them later. Many other bits and pieces like skid proof socks and so forth but I found in America they give you literally everything so it might be the same in your country.
A
female
reader, Moo's Mum  +, writes (16 March 2010):
 I personally didn't pack anything for the actual labour for all three of my kids. I found being in the bath better than any of the other things people say to pack like rolling pins and tennis balls etc so didn't need anything for that part other than what the hospital already supplied.
For the post natal bit this is what I recommend:
Sanitary pads specially designed for post birth bleeding are a must. Don't just get ordinary pads because they aren't wide enough and they don't have the right surface in case of stitches. Get two packs cause it's better to have too much than not enough.
Lots of pair of undies, (They need to be big granny ones unfortunately :-) ) You could end up needing a couple of pairs a day if you have leakage. Again better to have too many than not enough.
Tracksuit pants as they are the most comfortable things to
wear and I was never able to slide straight back into my jeans for at least a month after birth. I would pack a couple of pairs of these. Or any other comfy loose pants you have.
If you are planning on breastfeeding, tops that button right down the front so you don't have to lift your whole top up. Breastfeeding is a tricky old business to learn so the less material you have to deal with the better. (Don't get discouraged by the difficulty of breastfeeding at first. It takes a couple of weeks for it all to be natural like in the books. I had a hell of a time learning with my first then I fed her for a whole year so believe me it does get easier)
One warm top in case you get chilly and to go home in but it's usually pretty warm while you're in there.
Pyjamas and slippers and socks
Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, deodrant, perfume, makeup, cleanser, moisturiser etc.
Shoes to go home in.
Baby clothes for baby to go home in (don't forget nappies :-) ) Singlet, suit or top and pants, cardigan and hat, socks and booties. Plus a blanket to tuck her/him into the carseat for the trip home.
And remember if you forget anything there will be dozens of adoring people who will move heaven and earth to get you what you need.
Best of luck to you and your partner. Exciting times are ahead for you both.
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A
male
reader, CharmedNoodles +, writes (16 March 2010):
 You need to get lose clothes,like dressed,nighties,slippers,toothbrush,toothpaste lol,loose (apropriate) underwear.Probably a soft extra cotton extra soft blanket,NO Jewlery.Probably your cell phone.and CAMERA yaaaaaaaay!!!!!! lol
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