This is not my first rodeo, so I didn’t panic so much about packing the bag this time. I left it to the very last minute, which I wouldn’t recommend! But I do hate packing so I am cutting myself some slack. The first time around I read so many different articles on what to pack in your hospital bag, what snacks to take, what big knickers were the best big knickers and god knows how many times I read blogs about the best postnatal sanitary pads! But this time, I felt so much calmer, I knew what I needed and what I found useful, I just needed to actually put it into the bag.
To be honest, I didn’t pack too differently to last time, I just stocked up on the things I knew were really handy and I found useful. I also tried to pack more things that would make me feel comfortable should I have an extended stay, like last time. I packed skincare products and make-up last time (so many people told me I wouldn’t use them) and they were a godsend. I put a little bit of make-up on every day and managed to wash my face and moisturise every evening. These things just kept me feeling fresh and like myself when I was run down with sleep deprivation and pre eclampsia. So, do what is right for you!
It’s worth noting that I pack for inductions and the potential of a small baby so I do pack a few extra bits and bobs that you may choose to leave out if you are preparing for spontaneous labour. I also booked myself in for a blowdry, gel nails, eyelash extensions, a spray tan, and a fresh brow tidy up the day before my induction last time. Now, this may sound absurd to some people, but let me tell you it made me feel like a superwoman and I walked into my induction feeling great and absolutely ready to smash it! So, if those things work for you, then tell the people who laugh to sod off and make yourself feel as sassy for your labour as you bloody well want to!
I also always pack another bag of extra bits and bobs for me and the baby that Joss can bring with him should I have to stay in longer than expected.
Happy packing mamas to be.
And I think that’s it!
Ultimately, you need to pack the essentials but also what makes you feel good. You want your time in the hospital to feel like a home away from home as much as possible and if that means taking a face mask, your favourite lippie, and a personal pillow, then why not! You want to go into this experience feeling the most empowered, energetic, happy version of yourself and your body will do the rest.
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