Words cannot describe the phase of pregnancy in the life of a woman. Like most people say, you must experience it to understand the depth of the feeling. It is a blessed period when the mother and the child share an inexplicable bond. The fathers are equally pumped about the pregnancy. They walk the extra mile to make the baby and the mother feel contented and adored. Pouring over many books and internet material to get a hang of the situation, some men do fuss about the pregnancy. Sometimes, more so than the mothers!
The pregnant couples fret about, making an endless list of things to prepare for the arrival of the baby. Right from decorating the nursery to the baby-proofing of the house. Anything and everything related to the word baby feels monumental. But the first list that you need to make when you are gearing up for your delivery is very important. The list of things you need to take to the hospital is crucial and you must get it right. Here’s my hospital bag list of things that might be handy postpartum.
FOR THE BABY:
- Gripe water
You can never really guess the stomach situation of the baby and it is better to carry a bottle of gripe water with you.
- Filler or a small spoon
A filler is a little tube like thing with a sucking pump on top. It usually comes with a bottle of medicine. In case the baby doesn’t latch on to the breast, it is easier to give milk through a filler. A small spoon is also a pragmatic option.
- Nappy crème
You can never go wrong with a tube of nappy crème. Pop it in the backpack without a second thought.
- Soother/Pacifier
Experts consider it wise to practice the use of a soother for the baby from an early age. It helps the baby to sleep better and has a great calming effect.
- Warm clothes and blankets
The frail body of a new-born is sensitive to the temperature outside of the mother’s womb. Pack a lot of thick tees, socks, and leg warmers for the baby. A couple of blankets are always great in keeping them warm and comfortable.
- Wet wipes, tissues, diapers, and changing mats
Well, the title says it all. The essentials for a diaper change are an inevitable must. Ensure that you pack a bunch of soft towels too.
7. Artificial milk powder
In case the baby cannot feed on the mother’s milk, a packet of baby milk powder is a great option.
- Milk bottles, cleaning brush and a covered box
Cram in extra bottles, a cleaning brush and a covered box to keep them in after sterilization.
- Kettle
Don’t be sceptical about packing a small kettle, it is always handy to have one with you.
- Baby lotion, shampoo, and body wash
Undoubtedly, you need the bathing essentials for your little one. Pick the proper and safe brand.
FOR THE MOTHER:
- ID proof, hospital-related documents
Bustling about in a rush to get to the hospital, people often forget the ID proof documents and the likes. Ensure that you have all the required documents packed if you are a forgetful person.
- Maternity gowns or button ups
Always be equipped with spare clothes of your own. Maternity gowns or feeding shirts are comfortable as you need to feed the baby repetitively.
- Sanitary napkins
This item is a given when it comes to packing the postpartum essentials.
- Hand sanitizer and disinfectant liquid
A disinfectant liquid which is extremely useful when you need to wash the baby clothes. Its antiseptic properties leaves a sanitary and clean effect. Hand sanitizer bottles are a given when you stay at the hospital for too long.
- Bathroom essentials
Pack your toothbrush, paste, shampoo, and body wash. Nothing like the comfort of using your preferred bathroom essentials.
- Snacks and chocolates
You never know what mood you might be in and some light treats always help. Some energy bars and chocolates have a great soothing effect.
17. Novels and a Diary
Always carry reading material with you for it calms your nerves more than you know. Also, keep a little diary or a book to record your contractions and feeding periods of the baby.
- Make-up kit with comb
Carry a make-up kit and a comb, what’s a little clean up going to do!
18. Change of clothes
Spare clothes for the mother is always appreciated. Pack at least two sets of clothes for yourself.
- Flip flops
It is better to not walk barefoot in the maternity ward. So, pack a pair of flip-flops as they are extremely cosy.
Hope you find my list of essentials useful for your postpartum needs. Feel free to add more to it if need be.
Happy parenting!