What to expect in a hospital bag

Published: http://www.yash.ca/
On: August 10, 2008
At: Toronto, Canada

Staring at the mirror, I look at my watermelon-sized belly. I can't see my toes anymore. My clothes fit me no more. My hormones are swinging like a monkey on a tree and my ankles are inflating like a balloon. I am done with finding more baby names, and collecting baby frames and clipping coupons for diapers. Had enough of hanging around at message boards and spending hours saying "so sweet" at all the clothes in Toys R Us.

At 36 weeks of pregnancy, I want to scream, "I can't take this anymore. Get him out. Let's pop the cork" I begin packing my hospital bag before my head gets mixed up again. Below is a compiled list of things that I think is essential for the big trip that I will be undertaking shortly.

What to pack for labour
· A birth plan (It helps my doctor / nurse understand my wishes and needs. Even though there's no way I can control every aspect of labour and delivery, so I am flexible)
· Loose tees and pyjamas or night dress
· Socks and slippers - useful if I end up pacing hospital corridors in early labour
· Snacks and drinks - I might not prefer hospital food or I simply want more
· Toiletries
· Pillows / cushions
· Camera / camcorder to record the eventful moments
· Mobile
· Address book - to call friends and relatives
· Change - to buy snacks or make a call

For my support person
· A change of clothes
· Toiletries
· Snacks and drinks
· Pillows / cushions

For after the birth
· Loose comfortable clothes
·Nursing bras - two or three
·Breast pads for when milk comes in
·Maternity pads - a couple of packs
· Nightshirt or T-shirt -- front opening shirts are useful for breastfeeding

For the baby
·An infant car seat - some hospitals won't let you leave without one
· One outfit for the trip home (a bodysuit is the easiest)
· Two to three baby vests for baby to wear while we are in hospital
. Some hospitals provide baby gowns for the baby to wear during the stay
· Baby blanket (a warm one if the weather is cold)
· Nappies
·Wipes
· Towel
· Baby soap and oil
· One pair of socks / booties
· Hat
· Sweater / Jacket / snowsuit for winter babies

Ah! My two bags are packed. I am ready to welcome my baby. I know I will never see the world in the same way again. Good luck to me!