*this post contains affiliate links. I may make a small commission when you shop through the links in this post*
Officially 33 weeks + 3 days and slightly starting to panic. In pregnancy you get to a point where the bliss wears off a little bit and you come to the realization that you will actually have to give birth. I’m there. I’ve begun nesting – cleaning and organizing certain areas of our home – washing baby laundry, and planning my hospital bag! At my last doctors appointment at 32 weeks my doctor said she would expect me to go into labor around 36-37 weeks. Obviously, she was just guessing, but that lit a fire under my ass! At 32 weeks and 3 days I actually got a positive Covid test, so I have been homebound – probably for the best in order to get everything together.
Because this is my second time going through labor I kind of know what to expect. I remember what I needed and used with Everly’s birth, so that has been a huge help. I am hoping to have a vaginal birth like I did last time. If I end up having a C-Section a few things will change, but at least I’ll be prepared!
1. Button Down Pajamas/Robe
During active labor I remember I wore the gown they offered and a nursing bra, but immediately post labor you want to get comfortable in pajamas! You’ll also want to be comfortable in the postpartum room. If you are expecting to have guests make sure you have clothes that are comfortable and appropriate for that. I would also recommend black clothing – lots fo fluid, blood after birth and even though you will have on mesh underwear and pads you will appreciate black clothing!
2. A Long Phone Charger
Outlets can be hard to come by in hospital rooms, so make sure you have a long cord for charging to reach your hospital bed.
3. A Fan
During labor you are likely to go through lots of phases – hot and cold. It’s a plus to have a small travel fan on hand in case of a quick hot flash.
4. Postpartum Care Products
I am not planning to bring any postpartum care products with me because the hospital gives you everything you need and more for free. Well, technically not free because you pay for the hospital visit, but you get what I mean. For a vaginal birth they has pads, ice packs, mesh underwear, a peri bottle, sitz bath tub, tucks wipes and spray.
5. Lip Balm
Seems silly, but your lips get so dry during labor – bring lip balm to have on hand!
6. Toiletries
Bring all of your toiletries that you use at home on a regular basis. You will want your toothbrush, toothpaste, face wash, moisturizer. You will most likely take a shower too, so bring your own shampoo, conditioner, body wash, deodorant and your razor if you need one. The Wash + Go Mini set is perfect for traveling/hospital stays! I also plan to have a blow dryer and hair ties. Keep everything organized in a travel bag like this one too!
7. Nursing Pillow
If you plan to breastfeed it’s great to have your nursing pillow on hand. The nurses can help you get comfortable using it. I plan to use the MyBrestFriend twin pillow this time around. With Everly I had a Bobby Pillow – we liked it, but I wished it was a little more firm.
8. Your Own Pillow/Blanket
Hospital beds are not comfortable and if you’re there for a couple of nights it’s nice to have your own pillow and blanket. Your significant other will definitely want to bring theirs in too! I’m planning to pack my Barefoot Dreams blanket because it’s too soft and reminds me of home!
9. Nipple Balm
You will thank me for this reminder – especially if you are planning to breastfeed! Nipple balms can also be used as lip balms too! Look for a safe brand like Ingrid+Isabel or Mama Earth.
10. Baby Soap
In most hospitals they use Johnson & Johnson soap – we are not fans, so I like to bring my own clean, safe brand for baby’s first bath. I’m packing the Pipette Baby shampoo.
11. White Noise Machine
We love the Yogasleep sound machines and used it always for Everly. They are rechargeable and portable – I will say… you will need to unplug them from time to time to let the battery die if you use them exclusively in the nursery. They don’t last when they are consistently plugged in and always charging. There are so many nurses, doctors, specialists in and out of your postpartum room so you will definitely want some white noise for yourself, your baby and your partner to get sleep.
12. Nursing Bras
Bring a couple different styles! I ordered two nursing bras from Kindred Bravely and am so impressed with the design and quality. You can get 20% off your first order when you use my link. They are so comfortable and also have designs that are great for hands-free pumping. I am also bringing my Larken bra – it can be worn as a nursing bra or a hands-free pumping bra and is so soft and comfortable.
13. Baby Name Announcement Sign/Outfit
Are you planning to announce baby’s name at the hospital? You can order a cute sign from Etsy ahead of time with the name! We ordered one’s from Etsy that say “Hello, My name is…”. Other people have brought onesies with baby’s name on them. You will want to take pictures of the baby, so be sure to have everything you need including your camera if you’re not using your phone for pictures.
14. Towel/Laundry Bag/Shower Shoes
Bring your own towel – you will thank me! I am also packing a pair of flip flops to use as shower shoes. You can also find a laundry bag on amazon or at the dollar store to pack your towel, pillows, etc. Then fill it with your dirty clothing on the way out of the hospital.
15. Baby’s Car Seat
I’d recommend installing the car seat in advance – usually two weeks before your due date. Be sure that you have all of the infant inserts for the seat as well. The hospital will do a car seat check before discharging you.
16. Snacks
I don’t believe you are allowed to eat anything during labor – as soon as baby is delivered you’re starving! It could be in the middle of the night once you deliver, so it’s a good idea to have some snacks on hand for yourself and your partner.
Some other people like to bring pacifiers for the baby, a breast pump, nipple shields, a bluetooth speaker, more postpartum products, etc.
Is there anything else that I’m missing for your hospital stay? Let me know!
xo,
Jacci
