What's in the bag"? - A Guide to packing your hospital baby bag
- Written by Cara Barilla , Educational Columnist and Journalist
The journey of organising your life around your new babies surroundings and needs can be a strenuous moment for all parents, grandparents and loved ones. Within the midst of organising baby furniture, baby clothes, scheduling with work leave, the transition of home and car upgrading and even mental wellness can substantially play a large ripple effect.
Creating balance within your life and your partners life is an importance via managed time & effective organisation to work around your new bundle of joy.
The moment you walk into the hospital you may feel a degree of uncontrol and discomfort , As you aren't at home amongst your comfortable furniture, appliances and products. The time is crucial that yourself and your loved ones gather the right essentials for a secure homely stay. As the day arrives, you will realise that everyone's hospital experience is different than the next, so are the needs of each woman. This guide will aid you in sustaining a comfortable, more controlled environment for before, during and after labour.
WATER, TEA AND NIBBLES: This saves hospital time for both yourself and your husband if you have specific requirements for your consumption needs that the hospital can't assist in. Whether it's avian water, almond milk or specific tea; pre shopping also beats the prices of local hospital stores! Don't forget your teacup and thermal heater/cooler!
BABY CLOTHES, NAPPIES & WIPES: whether it's bibs, baby singlets, onsies, beanies or booties; remember that the hospital only can provide certain amounts of clothing, breast pads/ shields, women's pads, nappies, baby wipes, blankets, wraps and dummies. Consider the hospitals all year round cold air conditioning System regardless if you are giving birth in the middle of a summer heatwave. The babies going home clothes / outfit should be catered for the outside weather.
ENTERTAINMENT: Before, During and after your labour distraction is well needed. Take note of how you utilise your senses; touch, feel, scent, hearing and sight. To take your mind off the pain you can take your iPad to view your favourite shows, books, a magazine or relaxing music on your music dock (don't forget headphones and your charger) or if you are someone who doesn't like to watch anything you may want to bring an eye mask / blind fold to shield away the light and anything in view whilst listening to healing music. Stress balls and your favourite scent / essential oils play a calming effective finish to distract you from pain.
BATH AND SHOWER ACCESSORIES:
As you duck away from your newborn you need to manage hygiene and self care. Even though your not in your bathroom it's best to keep your routine the same. Liners, pads, female hygiene flushable body wipes are important especially for after the birth. Everyday grooming essentials such as shampoo, conditioner, body wash, towels, face wash, shower cap, sanitary bag, moisturiser, toothpaste, floss, hair brush, hair ties and clip, lip and body moisturiser, oil, iron, nail filer and makeup will make you feel fresh again. Don't forget to pack shower thongs in case you are sharing the bathroom with other patients.
YOUR WARDROBE ESSENTIALS: whether it's something comfortable and aesthetically pleasing for when your loved ones arrive to see you and your baby or just your everyday comfort, it's best to keep comfortable essentials in your bag such as: Robe, slippers, socks, track pants, singlets, Tshirt, loose comfortable underwear, jumper & cardigan can give you a sense of home comfort.
