What's In My Hospital Bag

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I have said it before and I will say it again, to this day I am a little bit bitter about the fact that I was unable to really pack a hospital bag when I had Jackson. At four weeks early, I simply hadn't gotten around to the task yet, and as a result I really felt scattered our entire stay in the hospital. Don't get me wrong, the hospital will truly provide all of the necessities for you, but in those few days when your life is turned upside down with the addition of your babe, it helps to feel in control of at least some things! These are all of the things that are making their way into my hospital bag, which I will be packing this week at 33 weeks pregnant! No taking chances this time around.

1. I haven't gotten a new robe in awhile, and wanted something pretty to wear during my stay that would be comfortable, easy for nursing, and still presentable for when people visit. Pink Blush has gorgeous options on their website, and I have ordered this one and can't wait to wear it both during and after my hospital stay.

2. You may have heard, but in the weeks following the birth of your baby, there is a good amount of bleeding that happens. While the hospital will provide the mesh panties, I found it super helpful to invest in a few pairs of boxer briefs. They were great for wearing around the house in the 1-2 weeks after baby too, because they cover everything and depending on whether you have company or not, are totally acceptable to wear as 'shorts', in my opinion.

3. Your milk may not come in during your hospital stay, but I find it better to be prepared and have a stack of these on hand. Once the leaking starts, it won't stop for awhile (or a year, in my case). I found that through all brands and price points, the Lansinoh were my favorite.

4. Tucks. I did not use these last time, but everyone I talk to swears by them. It is without question things will be uncomfortable after baby is born, and I am hoping these are an extra bit of help during healing.

5. #Mom Life sweatshirt. I invested in this cute little number, which is super widecut at the neck. I thought it would be so cozy in the hospital, and still easy access for nursing. I think it is important for new moms to splurge on themselves a bit and treat themselves to a new item or two to feel special!

6. Shampoo/conditioner. Again, things you can get at the hospital, but when you are in the midst of craziness, it really does help to have a little bit of home with you. Other things to bring are your toothbrush/toothpaste, face wash, makeup, and anything else you use during your daily routine.

7. Nipple butter. Breastfeeding came pretty easy the first time around, but that is not to say that it was easy. Cracked, sore, and raw are all very real experiences as you and baby learn the ropes together, and nipple butter is an absolute must if you plan on nursing. It is a huge relief for mom, and I also love this all natural version which makes me feel better about knowing baby will likely be 'eating' a bit of it.

8. Yoga pants will carry you through your pregnant, and you best believe they will carry you through the postpartum weeks as well. I love having options that flip up or fold down at the waist, as this really is accommodating whether you have a vaginal delivery or a C-section.

9. Call me crazy, but I really felt I maintained a sense of sanity during my first hospital stay by taking five minutes to curl my hair. This is NOT a necessity in the slightest, but there is so much to deal with after you have a baby, and there WILL be pictures. I could probably work on the vanity of this, but these are precious moments and I don't think it is the worst thing to feel decently put together so that looking back on photos ten years from now doesn't leave me cringing. Again, a personal choice, but it helped me feel great after Jackson was born!

10. Nursing tank tops are high on my list this time around. I only bought nursing bras last time, which are still great, but especially in the first few days and weeks, I learned quickly that it is all about easy access. I love that with tanks, there is no hiking up your shirt and exposing that newly deflated tummy, and there is also no pulling down on bra straps, which I found did quite a bit of damage to my tank tops the last time around. These from H&M are super affordable in comparison to most others, and while comfort and quality are important, I also know these tops will go through the ringer, and I like knowing that if these get milk stained or stretched out I won't be out a ton of money!

A few other random items that get thrown in the hospital bag include:

1. A camera. Smartphones are great, but I want higher quality photos if possible.
2. Snacks. I really like the food at our hospital, but you will have guests, and we will have a hungry older brother visiting this time, and having things like trail mix, gatorades, and fruit are great when hunger strikes or you don't want to fork over the money for cafeteria food.
3. Slippers. I am not a huge slipper wearer, but having something cozy for your feet is a good option!
4. Camera/Phone/Computer chargers. Because duh.
5. Music. I can likely pull this off of my phone, but it is nice to have the option to play relaxing music if you want it!
6. Extra ponytails/bobby pins/headbands. I always seem to start with a ton and end up with NONE by the end of an overnight stay!

Am I missing anything!? Having not done this the first time around, I basically feel like a first timer when it comes to packing my bag this go-around! I would love to hear what other ladies bring and what they choose to leave at home!

Linking up with Jen & Jessi, and Holly!