My Hospital Bag Essentials
When it comes to packing a birth bag it seems pretty straight forward.
That is, until you start thinking about all of the unknowns.
What if you have to stay an extra few days?
What if your baby ends up in the NICU?
What if you have to have an emergency c-section?
What if you get transferred from your birthing center to the hospital and they don't have the things you expected to have?
It can be overwhelming but I can guarantee you that if you take a few seconds to sit down and think about it you'll be able to figure out pretty much exactly what you need. It's okay to splurge on some items even if they're bulkier, especially if you know it'll make you more comfortable. You may feel like you're only there for a few hours but you never know if that could be extended and even then, a few hours feels like a lot when you're in pain, in shock and trying to figure out your new baby. Anything to make your life easier and more comfortable is 100% worth it, even if it feels like a lot. For example, I wanted my boppy even though I could've just used a pillow- 1000% worth it. I didn't care that Dustin had to wear it around his neck to bring it in, it was worth it to have when holding Hayden and when trying to support him in learning to latch.
When creating your list, sit down and think of the basic necessities that you like to have when you're not feeling good. Bring those.
I'm talking your own pillow, a blanket, cough drops, a heating pad, essential oils, gum, hair ties, fuzzy socks, lotion, chapstick- the works. Trust me, it's all worth it. Anything to make you feel better and more like yourself is absolutely worth it. If you over pack a little, that's okay, you'll learn for next time what you specifically need. But if you do get stuck there for a few days longer than you anticipated you will be so grateful you have the things you want and need.
I thought that I was great at packing, until I came home and we unpacked all of my stuff and realized I used less than half of what I brought. But I was still thankful I overpacked because I had what I needed. That being said, I'd love to share with you what I brought and what I wished I had left home. Check out the video below on Cinnamon and if you'd like you can snag my printable hospital bag list (with links) and pro-tips, here!