Advice Needed

Updated on June 06, 2008
S.S. asks from Suwanee, GA
53 answers

What items did you feel you wanted or where must haves in your bag to the hospital? I am packing my bag and I am at a loss of what i really need.

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A.B.

answers from Atlanta on

hey S.,
i found it was nicer to have my own soft, foofy toilet paper to use, my own soft towel/washcloth, and my own really nice maxi pads - the ones at the hospital, even the best hospitals around, are kinda square and industrial, ya know? i've had 2 c-sections with a necessary stay of 5 days each time(due to my body's weird reactions to things), so i wanted and needed to be comfy. ear plugs also helped me sleep, too.
hope this helps - congratulations !
aim

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A.E.

answers from Sumter on

Go ahead and buy the overnight pads with wings from the store. The hospital pads are huge and uncomfortable. Also, i wish i had taken a robe with me for my first child. When people come by to visit, its nice to feel covered!

Good luck and congratulations!

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J.I.

answers from Atlanta on

There are only a few things that I found necessary
robe and slippers
button front pj tops or gowns (for easy breast feeding without getting naked)
boppy pillow for breast feeding
lanolin for breast feeding
comfortable stretchy outfit for going home
a newborn sized outfit for your baby (I brought a 0-3month outfit that swallowed her whole)
camera of course
cell phone full of all numbers that you may need
Congratulations!!!!!!
Good luck. You can do it! This will be a very special moment for you, cherish even the hard parts.

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G.J.

answers from Atlanta on

consider bringing 2 bags depending on the room situation in the hospital. that is will you be in a delivery room then recovery/post part. Some hosp. leave you in one.
Also vag vs. c-section is a consideration.
Ok here is the list....hope this helps:

-Chap stick
-Nipple cream
-Nursing Bras (2-3)
-Panties (large to accommodate a post-partum maxi pad)
-Socks/slippers
-Coming home outfits for babies
-Colace stool softener
-Snacks ( in case food is not good)
-Comfortable outfit for Mom to come home in: stretchy pants and top (nursing)
-Robe to wear during hospital stay
-Make-up bag with essentials (non-wear off on baby)
-Toothbrush & paste, Body & foot lotion, Deodorant
-Magazines/reading material
-Cell phone w/ charger and numbers of folks you want to call ASAP

Make sure car seats are properly installed in back seat and leave room for mommy to sit there - as you will want to sit in the back with baby for fist car ride :-)

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R.H.

answers from Atlanta on

Congratulations!! Have your camera ready with plenty of room to take pictures! You're going to want basic stuff like a robe, clean nightgown (as long as you don't have any IV's in) slippers, flip flops for the shower, shampoo and conditioner, hair dryer and makeup bag with deoderant, toothbrush and toothpaste. You'll also need a change of clothes for when you leave the hospital and clothes and blanket for your precious new bundle! I had to spend a few days there before I had my first so I wanted a book/ magazine around (after the baby is born you just want to sleep)! Don't forget your cell phone with important numbers stored! Make sure you remember to have the base of the car seat already installed-- My husband was trying to figure out how to do it while I was holding the baby in the parking garage!!! Congratulations again! R.

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V.T.

answers from Atlanta on

It is true - I packed way more than I needed. My favorite thing I brought was my favorite blanket to put over top of the hospital ones (so it didn't get stained etc.) Also I was induced with pitocin and had an epidural so I sat for hours just waiting. I brought a couple of DVD's and they really passed the time. But if you go in in labor you will not be watchin' movies! Also, definitely use the gowns and panties they provide - you don't want to stain your favorite nightie. Cameras, snacks for hubby and toothbrush, outfit for you and baby to go home in - that's it :) God bless!

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S.B.

answers from Atlanta on

Congrats on your new addition. You can find online a complete list of things that you might need. Here are a few things that I took. Lots of panties, socks, toiletries (shampoo ect.), chapstick!, hard candy to suck on during labor, pony tail holder, pjs with a drawstring - not elastic waist, something for YOU to wear home (still maternity), pillow, Daddy needs clothes too. Baby needs some gowns ( I prefer the ones that fold over to be mittens b/c baby's nails could be long), baby emory boards, socks, pacifier (just in case), going home outfit, blankets. If you have another child you might want a gift for them, cameras - photo and movie with extra batteries for both, soft music, dvds, a list of people to call. I wish you the very best and I hope that everything works out for you. Do you have a birth plan?
S.

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A.W.

answers from Atlanta on

When I've gone for my son and when I was pregnant I needed my own clothes, toothpaste, toothbrush, deodrant, sampler size moisturizer, shampoo and a travel container for a bar of soap. Oh and don't forget your hairbrush....:)

Also, a good magazine or book doesn't hurt.

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A.C.

answers from Columbia on

I brought quite a few pillows from home and didn't regret it at all!! Now, all the "other stuff" I could have done without. I brought nursing bras which you will want- and too many clothes. I ended up staying in the hospital gowns the entire time. Bring a blanket or two for your husband to use when he sleeps. The baby doesn't really need much. I brought diapers and wipes and of course the hospital provides those so leave them behind. Good luck!

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J.W.

answers from Macon on

Definately don't forget the baby book for your little one's foot prints (and yours may also have a place for guests at the hospital to sign). Also, I brought my own shampoo because the hospitals wasn't very nice smelling and after having the baby, the only thing I wanted was a good shower! Bring a camera (ofcourse) and some nipple cream and disposable bra pads. I would bring a good robe and get some nursing night gowns and bring a couple in case of accidents. The hospital will probably provide you with plenty of maxi-pads, diapers, vasoline for the umbilical cord, formula (if you choose or if your little one isn't getting enough at feedings. I know mine didn't at first, even though they have the routing and suckling reflex's, they still have to learn how to eat!)

The worst thing I remember about my hospital stay was that I never got to rest! If it wasn't for the nurses coming in every hour day and night to check my blood pressure, I had meetings with the lactation consultant, my doctor checked on me both days, a visitor from the pediatrician's office the day they did his circumcision, someone from some organization with about 10lbs of leaflets and flyers about child-rearing etc. (that I must confess I ended up throwing away that night when I got home) and then all my family and friends who came by and then all of those who called. It was all I could do to that shower in the morning before they bombarded me with visitors!

Take as much time as you can between all that stuff though with the baby. I was so nervous when they left mine alone with me (even though he slept just about the whole time). But I truely belive that in those two days you're at the hospital, you get a head-start on everyone else in getting to know your child and learning how to care for him (even dad). It's hard to take in all the information they're trying to teach you in such a short time but by the time you get your's home you really are prepared.

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H.W.

answers from Atlanta on

I took a very small bag because between all the visitors and all the feeding, you really have so little time to do anything extra! I did take a LARGE cup for water so I would be sure and keep up my water in-take. I also took some Mother's Milk Tea & Fenugreek (as advised my the lactation consultant) to help with nursing. I only brought the outfit for the baby that she would be wearing for picture & to come home. :) I also handed out my call list to close friends that I wanted to make calls for us; that way my husband could call our family but we wouldn't have to be stressed about fitting in calls to EVERYONE we wanted to know!

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S.G.

answers from Savannah on

You've gotten some great ideas so far so I'll just add my 2cents!!

If you plan on nursing, bring the boppy pillow if you have one. It will help keep the baby off your tummy and pushing down on your pelivc area when you are sitting up to feed. Also, ask for some Lansinoh for your nipples to take him with you. The stuff is expensive so get it while the insurance will pay for it!!

Good luck and congrats!!

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S.D.

answers from Atlanta on

One item I found extremely helpful in labor was a tube sock that I filled with rice and tied off the end. You heat the sock for a couple of minutes in the microwave and use it on your back when the labor pains get intense. It's so helpful. Some hospitals won't let you use the microwave and insist on the calvacade (spelling) for sterility. If they do, you need a lot of time to warm it up that way, say 30 minutes.

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M.J.

answers from Charleston on

Hi S.,
I did most of my first labor in water so I wanted a swim top for that. Other than that, I did not think of bringing my baby a brush and she had long hair so I wished I did. You may also want to bring a gown for the baby. I had an outfit for mine but it was way too big, even though it was newborn sized. Dont forget the carseat and baby blanket. As for yourself, bring your comfy clothes to wear home. You may also want to bring your own music to listen too, cd player, video/camera w/ a battery backup. Best of luck to you guys:)

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M.D.

answers from Atlanta on

Don't take anything that you care about! You will have blood coming from places that you didn't even know that you had. Stay in the hospital gowns and disposable panties while you're there and let them worry about the stains and the laundry. Maybe just take a robe & slippers for when you're up and about and when you have visitors. Otherwise, just bring baggy, comfy clothes for going home. I took a nightlight and that might be the best thing that I packed. That way when you're awakened during the night to feed the baby or whatever, there's no need for bright lights and you can just go right back to sleep. Pack very lightly. I read somewhere to take birth announcements, scrap book, book to read, etc to work on during your "down" time. My baby was breech so I had c-section and was in the hospital for 5 days. Even in 5 days time I didn't have any "down time", so I took all of that stuff for nothing. I did read a little, but the rest was a waste. Seriously, don't take more than a small bag. Definitely your favorite toiletries and a little make-up to make yourself feel nice while recovering. Good luck!

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H.D.

answers from Charleston on

Here's a list my friend put together...she's due in May with her second child.

Hospital Bag:
- chapstick
- pony tail holders, headband
- toiletries: toothbrush & paste, shampoo/conditioner, soap, lotion, deoderant, eye drops, brush, hair dryer, face soap, make-up, vitamins
- journal (for recording gifts)
- hospital paper work
- magazines/books
- roll of soft toilet paper
- pajamas/lounge wear (button-up)
- robe
- going home outfit
- underwear
- nursing bra, cami
- nursing pads, Lanisoh
- socks, slippers
- pillow
- sanitary pads(cheaper to bring your own)
- ibuprofen
- Boppy pillow
- gift for older sibling from newborn
- contact sheet (laminated, if possible) with medical info, home info, phone tree
- treats for the nurses/doctor: candy, donuts, chocolates, banana bread, Target Dollar Spot (just ideas)
- pre-written thank-you notes for nurses: "Thanks for all you do! Love, the ____" or "Thanks for being a part of the most amazing time of our lives. You are appreciated! Love, the ____"

Husband’s Bag:
- clothes
- pillow
- blankets
- snacks, gum, suckers
- money for cafeteria, vending machine, or nearby restaurant
- reading material
- alarm clock
- laptop
- extra batteries for cameras
- camera and video camera
- cell phones and chargers
- (optional: DVD player & DVDS, music)

Baby’s Bag:
- 2-3 going-home outfits – preemie and 0-3 months
- socks
- hat
- pacifiers
- receiving blankets
- nail clippers
- baby book for guests to sign, for foot/handprints
- diapers/wipes (just in case)
- carseat in car

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B.M.

answers from Atlanta on

I took along my own bath towels for myself and my husbans, hospital towels are usually harsh next to your skin and are very small, I wanted to have a touch from home.

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D.J.

answers from Atlanta on

I am a "voluptuous" big girl, plus I was very swollen before and after childbirth. If that's your situation, make sure you buy some inexpensive underwear that is even larger than your normal pregnant size and that you don't mind getting stained.
The little disposable underwear they give you is extremely uncomfortable for a big girl when you add the swelling on top of that.

A tip I received from a Mom friend was to sing through the labor pains. I did that and it helped me tremendously...kept me calm and kept my breathing steady, so the baby stayed calm and had a steady heart rate, too. I am a singer, so I knew which songs to sing to help calm me, but if you don't, then make sure you get or borrow a small mp3 player and put your favorite calming music on there.

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L.F.

answers from Atlanta on

My advice is to pack something that is very comfortable. A loose dress, comfortable undies, etc. Also something to make your hair look nice as you leave with your precious baby!
Really nothing else mattered to me. I thought that I would be able to fit back into my regular clothes, but .....(smile)!

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K.L.

answers from Atlanta on

believe it or not...mascara. super easy and made me feel like my oldself just enough. Tucks pads, mints, fuzzy socks/slippers. All your chargers for camera, phone etc. hair gadgets for pulling every strand of hair out of your face while delivering....good shower stuff...the hospital stuff makes you feel like you are, well, in a hospital! A simple travel sized bar of dove makes all the difference. Big ol granny panties to hold the giant pads. Good luck!

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S.H.

answers from Atlanta on

Everyone is different, but I thought I would mention the 2 comfort items I just have to have: my own comfy pillow, and a CD player with my favorite music.

Happy birthing, and God bless.

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A.T.

answers from Appleton on

Make sure you bring your own panties!! Those I forgot to bring and had to wear the hospital ones that felt like I was wearing a large gauze diaper!

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R.C.

answers from Spartanburg on

Top of the list...CAMERA!! If you are using a 35mm, make sure you have tons of film! Make sure the battery is fresh and ready to handle lots of pictures. Yes, we took some pictures in the hospital, but not many, and that is a huge regret of mine.

Remember your cell phone charger. I had an ER C-Section and from the time they woke me up and took me to my room to the time my son was finally brought to me, nearly 4 hours passed (he had really low blood sugar and they had to get it up before he could come to the room). In that time frame, we made tons of calls to family and friends.

Remember, you are going to be leaving with a lot more than you came with (the baby, baby stuff, flowers, balloons, other momentos) so try to tavel light.

And pictures, pictures, pictures! That's what I always stress to people when they go in...even for a friend who just had baby #2!

Congrats and I wish you & your family the very best.

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R.D.

answers from Spartanburg on

Not as much as you'd think! I read all the books with lists of "must have" items, and I packed far less than everyone recommended-- and I still didn't look at half of it. The few things that were nice to have: my own nightgown and robe (though nothing fancy-- it will get messy!) a pair or two of socks, a book to read (though it didn't get much use) and basic toiletries, especially your toothbrush and a comb or brush. And, of course, a maternity (or really loose) outfit for yourself to go home in, and one for the baby as well. That's really about all I actually used. I know some people say to pack snacks, but my hospital was offering me food every time I turned around, and as far as music and other entertainment, you're too exhausted to really pay attention (or you always have visitors). And they'll provide anything you forget. Of course, I also had the advantage of living only about 2 miles from our hospital, so I knew that anything I forgot, someone could pick up--so that's something to keep in mind. Good luck!!

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J.K.

answers from Charleston on

I don't think anyone has added this..
If you are planning to breastfeed, I would highly suggest a nightgown that has easy access on top, preferably cheap and comfortable too. I found the hospital gowns to be a big pain trying to unsnap and then re-snap them at the top every time my baby wanted to eat while holding her. Plus, the opening at the back of the hospital gowns is unpleasant, especially with the thousand trips to the bathroom to change pads, etc.

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B.D.

answers from Florence on

Your own pillow and socks are definate must haves! maybe even a light quilt or blanket

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L.F.

answers from Atlanta on

You have lots of great ideas but to add one thing - brings lots of panites that you can throw away. Sounds gross but you will bleed through the pads and and you will not want to bring the soiled panties home. Once all the old ones are gone it will give you an excuse to buy new ones!

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V.H.

answers from Atlanta on

rolls of quarters so you can buy things out of the vending machine. if you dont want your baby dressed in hospital gear for two days bring lots of onesies, hats, socks, etc. bring your own shampoo etc. unless you want to feel like you are staying in a hotel. those are some things but obviously there are many more...oh yeah a camera, video camera, etc. if you want. good luck. you might also want to let your husband (partner) pack some things. honestly my husband felt totally shafted. he said that i may have did the work but he was doing a lot of work holding my big leg (granted I was overweight to begin and then pregnant). He said the hospital didnt pay any attention to him. they never offered him blankets, pillows, toiletries, drinks, food, etc. my hospital finally gave my husband lunch the day of the delivery but by then he was so used to getting his own food, etc. he had already made other arrangements.

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M.M.

answers from Charleston on

I packed everything on those "what to pack" lists and more (I think I probably looked like Paris Hilton checking in for a month long stay:). I didn't need 95% of the stuff I brought! Don't stress over it--your husband will have plenty of time to go retrieve your things if you need something. The things that i used were: my own pillow (a godsend-the hospital beds were so uncomfortable!), socks, shampoo, and baby's and my going home outfit. THAT'S IT! I brought makeup toiletries, and clothes for myself, but I had NO desire to put on makeup and I preferred the hospital gowns, panties, pads etc. I didn't want to mess up my own clothes and the hospital pads and panties are gigantic for a reason--use them. Sorry:)! I know it feels like you are going to a desert island that you can't leave for 2 days, but there will be lots of downtime for dad and other relatives if you need anything and you won't need anything in the 1st 24 hours anyway, so don't spend too much time thinking about this.

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M.

answers from Atlanta on

Chapstick is a must!

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A.M.

answers from Jacksonville on

Socks, chocolate, the babies first outfit and a baby blanket :o)

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T.S.

answers from Atlanta on

Pack light - you need less than you think! Everyone's right - the lists you get are overkill! I was really glad to have our portable DVD player and movies to watch, along with some music to listen to. Of course you'll want your camera but I'm sure that goes without say. I was glad I brought a couple of changes for my kids when they were born - one for pictures and one for coming home.
I also brought nursing bras but preferred my nursing tank tops, which I still sleep in.
Good luck and congratulations!

T.

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L.K.

answers from Atlanta on

I delivered five times and found that I hardly wanted or needed anything. I now just laugh at the long lists of suggestions of what to pack that the hospital provides. I just took my purse (which has my brush, chapstick, etc.), some basic toiletries, and some maternity clothes to wear home, plus an outfit and blanket for the baby. That seems like a lot as it is. The only things you absolutely have to have are your ID, insurance card, and car seat for the baby. The hospital can even provide you a toothbrush, shampoo, soap, etc. if it comes down to it. Some people suggest bringing a robe so you can walk around in your gown and not have an opening at the back showing. I also brought a pony tail holder to keep my hair out of my face. Oh, I would bring a camera, cell phone, and list of friends/relatives to call if you feel so inclined. Some people take laptops and actually email photos from the hospital. One last thing: remember to have maxi pads and nursing pads on hand for when you get home so you won't have to send someone to the store for them. Good luck.

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A.F.

answers from Atlanta on

I way overpacked for my first. The second time, I took chapstick, two hairbands, the camera and charger, phone and phone charger, toiletry items (they supply them, but I prefer my own), an outfit to wear home, and a couple outfits for baby. I FORGOT my medical records, though....

Things the hospital supplies include are thick socks, pillows, gowns (including one to wear backwards to cover you as a robe), toiletries, pads/panties, all baby supplies, and even snacks for during/after labor (just ask!).

It really is a pain to overpack b/c then you have to reload it all back into the car and then unpack it all when you really don't want to have to worry about that when you get home (and you won't have time).

Basically, you could go to the hospital with nothing and be fine. They have everything you'll need.

Congrats!!

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H.B.

answers from Spartanburg on

First of all, CONGRATULATIONS! There's a lot of apprehension that goes along with delivering your first child, but it's so completely amazing! You're getting ready to witness a true miracle!

Like many of the women who have already responded, I took way too much to the hospital. You'll obviously want to take a few things for the baby - a couple gowns/outfits (especially if you want the baby to wear something special for hospital photos and/or going home). As far as YOU go, you'll want some basic toiletries (brush, comb, chapstick, razor, toothbrush, toothpaste, minor make-up...if you really want it). Other than that, you may want a couple pairs of loose fitting pj's, a robe and slippers and an outfit to wear home. Even though I packed a lot more than this, I was glad I had packed a couple different pairs of pjs, etc. I ended up having to have a c-section so I had to be in the hospital an extra day. The general rule is 2 days in the hospital for a vaginal delivery and 3 days for a c-section. Whatever you pack, make sure you have enough to carry you a third day, just in case.

Make sure you bring a video camera, regular camera and any other momentos you'd like there with you. I had made a scrapbook with a couple of pages that said "Who came to see me?". I had everyone who came by the hospital write a little message and sign it. It turned out really great and it's still fun for me to go back and read the messages people wrote.

Enjoy this wonderful time in your life. You only have your first baby once and there's nothing like it! Good luck!!!!!

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M.H.

answers from Macon on

I would only pack things that you need for going home and or the things you will need for labor, like a picture to focus on, chapstick as someone said and for me a piece of paper to be able to write to your new little one. I also had some message oil in a scent that you like, or if they will let you a candle to help break up the "hospital" smell.

Just use the KISS system and you should be okay :) Good luck.

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B.F.

answers from Atlanta on

I took chapstick, gum and breath mints ( those mainly for other people) trust me your sense of smell is usually very good and the last thing you want is some one with bad breath in your face talking...I would (if they're breath smelled bad)say "help yourself to a mint I love the smell of mint. Husbands usually really need it. I also packed underware (no brainer), slippers a robe and a few gowns (if breast feeding) that opened up in the front. Hospital gowns are ok for delivery but afterwards I wanted to look a bit better for visitors like the next day. You want to take what you use to wash your face with, hair ties (some women don't like their hair to touch them in labor). I'd also take a fresh change of clothes to go home in at least two in case during discharge at the hospital for any reason you need to change again, it sometimes takes longer then what they say to leave. Pads the ones you like best the hospital ones are not that great. A few out fits for the baby remember they are going to come and take a picture of the baby and you may want something better then a t-shirt. A blanket you may want to take the baby home in booties and extra set a baby hat other then the one from the hospital for the baby. Oh before I forget also some life savers whatever flavor you like it helps you get your spit after hours of labor and taste good you can have candy like that to suck on. I also packed snacks for my husband so he could stay with me during labor but could eat something. That would be whatever he likes I packed peanut butter crackers, I had fruit ready to go, dried fruit, nuts, a few cans of soda, bottled water and one of those packs of jerky...my husband didn't love it but I said hey be in labor and be hungry after 8 hours and have the hospital say sorry not till the baby comes out. I'll never forget one hospital i was at I had the baby at 6:30 pm and when they finally let me be able to eat they said oh so sorry kitchen closed at 7:00pm so guess what??? thank god I packed some stuff for hubby I had that to eat while he went to find real food..I was starving the nurse brought me crackers and peanut butter and an apple I said wow I have that I want real food...never got it until the next morn so you never know how the packed emergency food will be helpful. My best wishes hope some of my stuff helps .... Depending on how many hours you are in labor, all the excitement I would get as much ready as possible I wouldn't burden my husband with small details of getting things later have things packed now to prepare...he will have many things to do as well if you get advise to not prepare ahead of time I wouldn't pay much attention. Everyone forgets the CAMARA!!!you'll want pics of the baby asap, also the dispo panties and hospital pads are not that great your fit way better

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M.N.

answers from New London on

Do not go by the list the baby books give you, that is way to much stuff! I brought, ID, car seat, out fit for baby, tooth brush/paste, chap stick, and loose fitting pants and shirt for me, baby book for foot prints, camera, call list. I was to tired to even look at magizines. Like another said, make sure you have maxie pads and nursing pads at home. The hospital will give you some maxie pads and mesh underwear to. Good luck to you and your family.

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D.S.

answers from Myrtle Beach on

Robe, Socks, Slippers, Babies going home outfit, Camera with batteries, Change of clothes(when you leave the hospital), Maxi Pads, Car Seat

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B.

answers from Augusta on

Thick socks or house shoes!

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J.T.

answers from Atlanta on

I have 2 little ones so the trips to the hospital are still fresh. For the first one I took everything because I was afraid of what I'd miss. Only to find that I was overwhelmed with too much stuff and our room became crowded and uncomfortable. The second one I only took a camera and a journal (baby book) in addition to minimal clothes (you won't need underware-they provide that!) for myself and the baby. It was much nicer not having to worry about "packing" to leave the hospital and I had more room to put the things they gave me (like diapers!).

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S.S.

answers from Atlanta on

I never did use anything from my bags during labor... but make sure you have extra thick pads - they give you some, but you'll need plenty when you get home. I did pack change for my hubby- so he could get snacks and coffee and stuff.

E.M.

answers from Atlanta on

Pajamas underwear on or two bood books to read your own towel soap and shampoo some slippers

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J.M.

answers from Atlanta on

Looks like you've gotten lots of good advice.
My two-cents: the two items I was most glad I brought were
1) a good book (my husband and I enjoy reading out loud to each other, and it was comforting to have himread to me during labor and while nursing)
2) snacks (I brought a huge bag of trail mix. I thought the hospital food was good, but it was nice to have a snack I knew I liked on hand. But mainly it was great for my husband, because he didn't want to leave for any reason (even to eat!) so I was glad to be able to give him a little more than the leftovers from my hospital meals)

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K.C.

answers from Atlanta on

I felt the same way. You really need very little. I was induced on my first and was confined to bed due to IV so I used nothing personal or birth related. The second went too fast and again used nothing. These are common scenarios so just the essentials which include the camera and camcorder and change of clothes.

It's a lot of work to dress you baby for hospital pics and since the baby is swaddled, you really don't need anything for him/her either. Plus, the hospital shirt looks so cute in pics because it's small and doesn't swallow the child.

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J.B.

answers from Atlanta on

I took so much more the first time than I needed!Just take one or two nursing gowns, something for the baby to wear home, a camera and your toiletries (that shower after you give birth is pretty fantastic!). Throw in a book or magazine -you MAY get to look over it while the baby is sleeping or away although it's like a revolving door into your room with visitors, nurses, childcare advice people, etc. I would make use of the "Do not disturb" sign if I were you!

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S.G.

answers from Macon on

I am glad that you asked this cuz I am also worried about what to bring. I am due in June. And I read a lot of the responses left for you and they helped me as well. Good luck to you and your baby.

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J.V.

answers from Stationed Overseas on

slippers, gown pj's, comfy undies, socks, regular clothes to leave, toiletries, a ponytail, and baby clothes! i brought so much and didn't use half of the stuff. good luck!

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C.H.

answers from Augusta on

The only things you need are what you will be using for the delivery.Anything else the husbnd can bring later. I packed the babies clothes,baby book for feet prints,and insurance card and ID.You a change of clothes,bathroom ness. They give you disposable panties,pads,socks,carseat and no need to bring anything for entertainment.When your not having visitors or holding your baby you will be doped up or sleeping so no need.Add ur own personal items if your doing it with no pain meds but they also provide a ball or w.e u need also so pack lite.

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A.G.

answers from Augusta on

Hey S., congrats on your upcoming arrival! Grace J's list was pretty good, and the only thing I would add is change or dollar bills for drink/snack machines for you or guests. I checked into the hospital at 9 pm on Saturday night and didn't deliver until 6:38 pm on Sunday. I couldn't eat anything after check in, and after delivery, the only thing that didn't make me nauseaous was jello, coke, and tea. Also, take a little bag of suckers or hard candy in case you are there for a long time before delivery since they wont let you eat!

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L.S.

answers from Atlanta on

Because I had so many years between my first and second children, I had forgotten what I would really need. However, after getting remarried and getting pregnant, I realized that I had no clue and ended up packing everything but the kitchen sink.
Would you believe the only thing I used was my toothbrush???

This time around (April 12th) I packed very little. Only what I really needed. I did not even pack anything to wear in labor or after because you bleed so much you end up wrecking it. I wore the hospital gowns.

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C.P.

answers from Charleston on

I packed a bag and didn't use one thing!

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R.C.

answers from Atlanta on

Chapstick or lip smackers, whatever brand you like. You might not be allowed to drink but your lips will get dry.

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