Breast Pads Soft, comfortable breast pads are absolutely essential if you don't want to wake up in a puddle of milk. Disposable or reusable, stock up on more than you think you need.
2 packets of maternity pads (these are larger than regular pads. You may continue bleeding for up to 6 weeks after giving birth, however the bleeding should subside after the first few days)
2 packets of super-absorbent sanitary or maternity pads. 5 or 6 pairs of knickers – you may want to bring some disposable ones. your washbag with a toothbrush, hairbrush, flannel, soap, lip balm, deodorant, hair ties and other toiletries. towels.
On average you'll need 6 pairs of reusable breast pads, assuming that you wash daily. If you wash every other day, you may need 9 pairs to allow for drying in between.
The hospital will give you pads and mesh underwear while you recover from giving birth. However, some moms swear by bringing their own protection to be more comfortable.
It has lots of antibodies to keep your baby from getting sick. Sometimes a little colostrum may leak out during pregnancy. If this happens, use disposable or cotton breast pads (without plastic liners) to absorb it.
Two nursing bras and a bunch of breast pads – the second bra is useful if the breast pads fail you – it happens. Nipple cream – nipple cream, nipple cream. Brightly coloured pillow – not white, it could blend in and get lost.
Flip flops are handy for showering both while in labor and then afterwards. A pacifier. Maternity wards are pro-breastfeeding and we aren't allowed to dispense pacifiers, as they're associated with nipple confusion. So if you want one, you'll have to bring your own.
Hospitals usually provide plenty of receiving blankets, hats, newborn diapers, wipes, and diaper cream. Typically, they can't hand off items you did not end up using to another new baby's family, so you are encouraged to take these baby basics home with you.
If you have items like breast pumps and breastfeeding pillows, bring them to the hospital to practice-- it's a great time to test them out. On site lactation consultants can advise you on their use and help you get comfortable before taking baby home.
Aim for one outfit in newborn size and one 0-3 months. Don't forget hats and/or socks, if weather-appropriate. Your pediatrician's contact information. The doctors and nurses will ask you for this information several times, so it's good to have it handy.
Disposable nappies and baby wipes – Bring your own if you plan to use them, as some hospitals don't supply disposables.
When Should You Pack Your Hospital Bag? You should have your hospital bag ready to go between weeks 32 and 35 of your pregnancy, in case your baby comes a bit earlier than expected. A good time to start the packing process is around the 28 week mark, or at the start of your 3rd trimester.
Partner or Dad's Hospital Bag Checklist
Sleep accessories: your own pillow and blankets from home. Toiletries: toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, shampoo, conditioner, and more. Eyewear: glasses, contact lenses, and contact solution, if needed. Healthy snacks: pack things like trail mix, fruits, veggies, and more.
The hospital may supply you with basic items like travel sized shampoo and a bar of soap (maybe even a toothbrush and toothpaste), but you'll likely want to bring your own brush, hair ties, shampoo, conditioner, body wash, deodorant, lip balm, chapstick, face wash, glasses, contact case and solution.
If you choose to bottle feed – you will need to bring enough pre-packed bottles of a readymade newborn formula into hospital with you to last for your stay. We recommend that you purchase at least one 'starter pack' of first infant milk containing 6 bottles and 6 teats.
LilyPadz are one of our favorite nursing pad alternatives because they can be used while practicing skin-to-skin care in our Pocket! They actually prevent leaks by providing gentle pressure on the nipple. LilyPadz are reusable and non-absorbent, making them environmentally friendly!
Wear a supportive bra
Wearing the right kind of bra can hold up your breasts and give it the support it needs after pregnancy. This is especially important when you exercise or perform high-impact workouts.
Many disposable nursing pads, like disposable diapers, contain absorbent chemicals that you will be putting directly against your skin. They also lack proficient air circulation, which can lead to discomfort and trapped moisture.
It's totally up to you and your comfort. If you usually go braless, you do not need to wear one during breastfeeding. Moms often have concerns about leaking a lot at night, so this may be another reason why wearing a bra at night might be helpful.