Are you ready for the big day? Your baby could arrive earlier than expected, so it's best to have your hospital bag ready by the beginning of the third trimester, during the 28th week of pregnancy, just in case. Today, Neuvième Ciel gives you a list of things not to forget in your maternity suitcase. Read this list carefully to make sure you pack everything you need for you and your newborn in your maternity suitcase.
For mom:
Administration:
Important documents: don't forget to bring your maternity record book, family record book, health card, maternity registration form, birth plan if you have drawn one up...
Comfort :
A comfortable nursing pillow : Hospital pillows are often uncomfortable so consider bringing one that you like, it will help you relax.
For example, take the Hugo nursing pillow from Neuvième ciel which is made from organic cotton and spelt husks.
This cushion will be very useful when your baby is born (if you are breastfeeding) to support your arms while breastfeeding and to avoid back pain, but also to place your baby in the hollow of the cushion so that he can rest. He will feel like he is in a cocoon when you place him in the middle of the cushion, in memory of the 9 months spent in his mother's womb.
Your toiletry bag: Don't forget your tissues, hairbrush, deodorant, toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, hair dryer, and hair ties. Make sure to bring some moisturizer, as your skin may be drier than usual. You may also want to bring a plastic bag to store dirty clothes.
Snacks and drinks : Labor can sometimes be very long, so you may want to bring snacks and drinks. However, ask your healthcare team if you will be allowed to eat or drink during labor.
Clothes : You'll need comfortable clothes to wear during your hospital stay and for when you go home. It will probably take some time for your belly to go away, so you'll probably still need your maternity clothes when you go home.
For example, you can choose the cocooning leggings and the Yogi t-shirt from Neuvième Ciel (which are made of cotton) for absolute comfort.
Cocooning leggings are very comfortable to wear thanks to their cotton material. A must-have in your maternity suitcase for a peaceful birth. Comfortable and practical, maternity leggings are the essential basic for any expectant mother.
To complete this cocooning mode, the Yogi t-shirt will be perfect. Its cotton material makes it comfortable, flexible and pleasant to wear.
Help for work:
Things that help pass the time : books, magazines, movies, etc. can help you relax during a long labor. We recommend that you prepare a playlist that you can bring to your room at the maternity ward to relax and help you experience these labor contractions as serenely as possible because it has been proven that the state you are in affects how much pain you feel.
Your smartphone and charger : besides needing a phone for obvious reasons (calling, texting, and updating your social media), there are several apps that help record contractions and whether they are regular or not.
For baby:
Bodysuits : Consider taking several bodysuits because you will need to change baby regularly in the first few days. We recommend taking bodysuits that have snaps on the front because they are more practical to use for changing baby, rather than those that close in the back.
Socks and/or a pair of slippers : Newborns can get cold easily, so remember to bring socks and/or booties just in case.
A blanket : The hospital will likely provide blankets, but it’s always a good idea to have one on hand to use during skin-to-skin contact. It can also be helpful for keeping your baby warm in the car seat on the way home.
A comfort blanket : bring baby's first comfort blanket so that he quickly finds his bearings in this new world!
Bibs : Baby can get dirty easily when breastfeeding or taking a bottle, so bring bibs!
Diapers : Plan on getting about 20 to 30 diapers that are specifically designed for newborns. Your newborn may need 10 to 12 diapers a day, so you can start stocking up. You can also opt for cloth diapers, which are more eco-friendly and often harmless to your baby because they don’t contain chemicals.
Wipes : Newborns' skin is particularly sensitive, so it's best to use only cotton balls and water or baby wipes in the first few weeks.
What to wear when coming home : Consider the weather conditions: a bodysuit, socks and a hat may be suitable for the warmer months, but in winter, pack light gloves and a coat or snowsuit.
A car seat : This should be installed in your car around the same time you pack your maternity bag so that it is ready for when you leave the hospital with your baby.
With this list of things to pack in your maternity suitcase, you will be well prepared for your hospital stay. Once your maternity suitcase is packed, keep it within reach: in your car or by your door so that you are ready to leave at any time for the maternity ward. Good luck!