What You Need for Baby (Part 8: For Mom)

• Maxi-pads – you’ll need these for weeks after labor, even if you have a c-section. Bring some you like to the hospital, because you might not like theirs.
• Nursing pads – Disposable or washable. Intellectually, I liked the disposable b/c you could toss them, but the washable were actually more comfortable and fit better into my bra.
• Disposable underwear – I got these at the hospital and didn’t really need them by the time I came home. But don’t throw away the ones you get there – you can re-use them at home after washing. Some women have heavy bleeding for a much longer time, so having a few of these handy at home is a good idea.
• Nursing nightgown and robe – I didn’t get a specific nursing one, but had 2 nightgowns that gave easy access when it was time to nurse. It’s ok to buy something for this if you don’t have it, but don’t go out and buy something expensive that needs dry cleaning! Odds are you’ll get this a little dirty from the aforementioned bleeding. I bought 2 simple cotton nightshirts and robes and was glad not to wear the ugly hospital gown (let alone the robe). Look for robes that won’t bother your incision in the event you end up with a c-section – at least one with a zipper rather than a belt.
• Slippers or Slipper Socks - you can't walk around the hospital halls without something on your feet. Make sure they are big, loose comfy slippers...you can't imagine how swolen your feet will be. I had mocassin-type slippers and they wouldn't fit on my club feet.
• Your pillow – Make sure your pillow case is not a light blue or white like the hospital’s or you could lose it!
• Throw blanket from home – I followed this advice, and liked having it, but it was really optional in hindsight. Your hubby might appreciate it too if he decides to spend the night at the hospital.
• Nipple balm, such as Lansinoh or PureLan to soothe sore or cracked nipples… motherhood is not all pretty!
• Thank you notes and stamps
• A pretty journal or something to write in about the experience and who gave you what in the hospital and afterwards before you forget everything you can’t imagine you'd forget.
• Camera and lots of film - digital solves the film problem
• Baby book
• Comfortable clothes to wear home or hang out in while in the hospital if you’re up to getting dressed. I wore a loose dress home that buttoned all the way up and meant I avoided bending over and trying to get legs into pants. With a c-section, that was great and I imagine that may be even nicer when you’ve got a sore bottom, front and back, from labor.
• 3-4 nursing bras – Wait until late in your pregnancy to buy these, as your size may continue to go up. I went from 34B to 38D by end of pregnancy, and 38DD when nursing. On that note, buy 1-2 bras one size larger than your end-of-pregnancy size. When your milk comes in, the old ones really won’t do.
• Shirts that button in front for easy access when nursing

NOTE: the hospital will have some supplies for you and baby at the hospital – vaginal ice packs, disposable panties, maxi-pads, diapers, formula, and pacifiers are all pretty common. It’s there for you to take, so beg, borrow and steal as much as you.

Comments

[Chelsea Leis]

My mother will give birth to our youngest sister days from now. Everything seems to be prepared and organized so far. I did and bought all your suggestions. Thank you for these tips.

[Jennifer]

Glad to see these tips are still of help to people out there all these years later.