What do I take !?! (My Version of the List)

Member Name: oioiyou

Product:	My Version of the List
Date:	16/06/09 (34 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: have all the things you want & need

Disadvantages: usually take too much!

There are many different lists advising you what to take with you when having a baby. I found some things to be completely useless. Obviously everyone's needs are different but below is a list of what "they" say to take with and what I think ... I have had two children at two different hospitals so I think I can offer a good opinion.

Labour bag

* A clean T-shirt or front-opening nightie, dressing gown and slippers

* Drinks and snacks for you and whoever's going to be with you

The first hospital was quite average. I was offered meals at meal times and for the most part I stuck to Sandwiches. I stayed there for three nights. I could have done with a bit more chocolate and maybe a soda or two as the machines are rather expensive. The second hospital was really accommodating and offered me all kind of snacks. I only stayed one night but throughout labour and the night they were bringing me cups of tea and stuff.

* A straw, which will make sipping liquids easier

Can't say I feel either way about this one. I was given orange juice during labour and they had already put a straw in it and thinking back I guess it's much easier then trying to drink as normal from a cup when you have other things on your mind.

* A small facial sponge, for dabbing and sucking on

Didn't bring one nor did I find the need for one. My second labour was a water birth so there isn't really the need to dab your face.

* Body oil, fine talcum powder or lotion for back rubs

I should have demanded a backrub! I'm quite upset now that I didn't! I did bring oil but that was Bio Oil to ward off stretch marks.

* Music CDs and a battery-operated player

I didn't bring music. There was a cd player at both hospitals though. I nearly killed the lady in the delivery suite next door as she played her god awful music all through her labour.

* Hairbrush, soap, towel and flannel, toothbrush and paste, and any other toiletries you want

All of the above are a must for obvious reasons!

* Maternity pads (night-time sanitary pads will do) and spare pants
Yet again another must have.

* Birth Plan

I sat and talked through what I wanted with the nurse and midwife on arrival so my birth plan was just a waste of paper. My first labour however was just under an hour so there was no time for a plan or chat!


Hospital bag

* A front-opening nightie (easier for breastfeeding)

It's good to have another one for after the birth. Nice and clean.

* Comfy clothes (such as a tracksuit and T-shirts)

* Sandals or easy-fitting footwear

It's very important to have loose comfy clothes and sandals to go home in.

* Extra knickers

* Nursing bras

Even if you're not planning on breastfeeding it's good to have one that will keep you comfy.

* Toiletries and cosmetics

I didn't even think about putting make-up on to be honest. I looked like some sort of devil woman and that is how I stayed for the next couple days!
As for body wash I learnt after my first experience not to take anything with any fragrances in it. Avent make a maternity body wash that is fragrance free and so shouldn't cause any irritation.

* Magazines and books

I had good intentions of reading a book but to be honest I was too tired for any of that. The first time as I was in hospital for longer I did read a book but not the second time round.

* Writing materials

Maybe for people who want to send letters ... I'd rather send a text.

* Baby clothes

One or two outfits should be just fine. I had two hats to go with and a couple mitts to stop baby scratching their face.

* Nappies for your new baby

The hospital will not give you any unless you came into hospital in an emergency or surprise/early labour!

Ideas from me:

* Camera / phone

* Photos of other children



All the best to those expecting or trying for children ...




© oioiyou 2009

Summary: A must have, but think about what you're taking