What to Take to the Hospital

If this is your first time having a baby then you may have your mile long list ready. Remember that you will not be there very long but that you may have many visitors. We all want to look, smell and feel our best. So here's my list of what to take to the hospital to achieve all of this.

1. You may take a couple of showers or baths during labor BUT most likely it will be for the relaxing warm water to help through labor pains. Take your favorite shower gel and body lotions for your next shower. If you've been using special products for stretch marks and itching then continue to use them after. Remember when breastfeeding you don't want to use soap on your breasts, this will strip away natural oils needed in this area. Small travel sized shampoo and conditioner will work fine and also take along your comb or brush. Clips and hair ties are a must during labor as well.

2. I've never used too much perfume when close to my newborn because of getting it all over them or causing a reaction with their little nose (sneezing, etc.) You probably don't have to worry about bad odor if you remember to take your arm deodorant and don't forget your toothbrush plus toothpaste. Toothpaste they provide in the hospital is kind of gross but better than nothing. You just labored-the most important thing is to rest.

3. Make-up: It is not likely you'll need much of this. Chapstick is probably a must have during labor so remember to drink water and keep that chapstick near by to avoid chapped lips. Your simple blush, lip gloss (you'll be kissing visitors, your partner and your little one a lot so maybe light or clear shades is the best way to go) and maybe oil controlling or absorbing cloths will work fine. Also, remember you just had a baby, you're probably glowing with beauty anyways.

4. If you wear glasses and contacts forget the contacts all together! Who wants to labor with contacts in? You can fall asleep and then this will lead to headaches later. Just get those good glasses ready. I remember always making sure I shopped for a new pair right after delivering my baby because your eyesight changes slightly when you're pregnant and after it can change again.

5. A good pair of PJ's is a must! I know all women are different but I love built in bra cami's and a pair of cute cotton drawstring bottoms. Two solid color nursing or regular cami's and print bottoms or vice versa plus a little zipped hoodie or cotton sweater works great. Add a pair of comfy slippers and you're good to relax, nurse or even go home in. A cute gown is awesome too. You decide. I always worried about the bunching up and with hemorrhoids who wants to be messing with PJ's bunching up underneath your bottom? UPDATE: Also remember a take home outfit. Something light like cotton capris and a cute shirt or track suit should work fine.

6. Don't forget about baby! This is a whole other bag so I'll touch this later!

Happy Transitioning to your New Life
Evie