What you really need in your hospital bag (government hospital)

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My expectation of my hospital experience, and what it was, were two very VERY different things!

I discovered that the process is much more clinical and cold than what blogs or magazines would have you believe. My bag was filled with hopelessly too much, and hopelessly too little - all because I had no idea what was going to happen. Also, I packed the most amazing stash for baby, and forgot about being comfy myself!

So, I decided to put together a REAL list of what I would pack with the knowledge I have now! Hindsight is 2020 after all. Hopefully you can use this list as a guideline for packing your bag!

1. Clothes for baby
Make sure you pack enough for a few night's stay just in case. This is the easiest to pack. 
  • babygrows
  •  socks
  • nappies
  • wipes and 
  • bum cream. 
You can pack bath items, but you'll most likely be discharged the next day if all went well and baby made that important first poop!

2. Blankets for baby
For me, one receiving blanket and one fluffy winter blanket was enough

3. Your clothes
Pack loose, comfortable clothes, that will work for you even if you end up having a c-section. Pack enough for a few nights just in case. Here are some must-haves:
  • button-up pajamas
  • dark, loose fitting pants (must be okay to potentially get blood stains on them- it's messy)
  • A gown - choose one that can get stained, definitely nothing too fancy as it'll get ruined 
  • flip flops/ slide-in sandals - when you get instructed to bath (maybe even several times) for pain relief, slipping on these for walking around is essential
  • disposable panties/hospital panties - these are so important. After labour you bleed quite a bit and these help keep your maternity pad in place!

4.  Your toiletries
You're probably not going to care too much about hair and make-up once your bundle it out, but if you do want to spruce up, take a few basics if you want to send a photo to family and friends. I wouldn't recommend a hairdryer, as you share a room with multiple new mommies and babies.
  • maternity pads
  • mini body wash
  • mini shampoo/conditioner (if you can manage washing your hair)
  • Disinfectant spray - give the bath a once off spray and rinse, remember everyone is using it and there isn't always a clean in-between
  • deodorant
  • nipple cream
  • 2 dark towels. one for bath, and one for on hospital sheets

5. Other essentials
  • Phone charger and 2 prong adapter
  • A book/magazine if you're being induced
  • snacks
  • pillows from home for extra comfort
  • earphones
  • airtime/data 

Do not be afraid to ask if you need something. Obviously don't call on the nurses unnecessarily, but it's important to know you have rights as a patient. If you require help getting in and out of the bath for example, or if you're struggling to get baby on the breast - ASK. 

I hope this list helps out a mommy giving birth in a government hospital, as I know it would have helped me a ton!


*images from pexel

 

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