There are four very important lists that you need to make, whether or not you actually start packing your hospital bag. The first one is your hospital bag. Search online, ask family and friends, or write a post on those mom Facebook groups you are in asking what was helpful, what was useless, and what was forgotten but wished for. What works for them may not always work for you (like a robe - some are too hot after birth, some get cold), but it is a great guide and a great place to start. Having a list before you actually start packing is a perfect way to make sure you have what you need, don't over or under pack, and avoid having to unpack and repack it too many times.
The second list what paperwork you need to bring with you to the hospital. You may need to talk to your OBGYN as this day gets close, or call the hospital. Some hospitals offer classes that give you this paperwork or have an option to pick it up or download it online. It may not be much, but having an admission form already filled out and your birth plan ready to go will save you time when you arrive while having contractions.
The third one is short an easy, but also important. Type it, print it, put it in your hospital bag. It is your call list. Everyone knows which family members to call once the baby is born (or do they?), but there are some other very important calls that need to be made shortly after your little one is born. This should include, but is not limited to your health insurance (or hubby's if that is the one the baby is going on), the pediatrician to set up your 2 day baby appointment, your breast pump company (if you have one that does not release it until the baby is born) and any other places that need to be informed of your child's birth.
The fourth and final list is your postpartum list. Wait, you didn't know that there would be more items other than baby items that you will need after you give birth? Between the pain and discomfort, whether from vaginal or cesarean birth, there are many items you should have ready to go at home before you go into labor. I cannot perfectly speak from experience.....yet.....but I do not want to have to run out or have dad run out to pick up things I need as we go when baby girl is here. It is much easier to return what I don't use. Especially when it comes to things like pads and stool softener. Plus, who wants to risk him getting the wrong ones??? Lol.
The next post will have just the lists in it for your viewing, if you are interested. I will post later a follow up as to what may or may not have been beneficial on them, but it is a good place to start. If you have any recommendations to add, please comment below and let us know your experience.
No comments:
Post a Comment