Pregnancy Guide : Effects, Preparations, and Essential Hospital Bag Checklist
Pregnancy affects every woman uniquely. Some expectant mothers experience nausea throughout their entire pregnancy, while others do not. Dealing with the increasing effects of pregnancy hormones for nine months is challenging, but mothers-to-be can and do overcome these difficulties because they are excited about their baby. They eagerly await the day they will meet their baby and take immense joy in witnessing every moment of their pregnancy. This profound feeling, unlike any other emotion they have experienced, compels them to consider every detail about their baby. During the nine months of pregnancy, expectant mothers have 40 weeks to ensure their babies’ needs are met. They ensure a smooth pregnancy and prepare for their baby’s arrival.
Preparing for the Baby During Pregnancy
From the moment they learn they are pregnant, expectant mothers immediately start buying baby items. They create a baby shopping list and purchase everything they think their baby needs, even if it’s not strictly necessary. In the early months, when the baby’s gender is still unknown, expectant mothers tend to buy unisex baby products. As the pregnancy progresses towards the end, they prepare a hospital bag for the delivery. Expectant mothers usually start preparing their hospital bags around the 30th week. This is essential both for being ready in case of an early arrival and to ensure nothing is forgotten at the time of birth.
Why You Don’t Need a Hospital Bag
Private hospitals are well-equipped and comfortable, so you don’t need a bag. However, expectant mothers pack their bags with lots of details. A hospital bag guide and advice from others can also make the list longer. If you’re delivering at a private hospital, the hospital will provide everything you and your baby need. If you’re delivering at a public hospital, you’ll need a more comprehensive bag.
What to Include in the Hospital Bag
There are two main categories of items in the hospital bag: baby and mother.
Baby’s Hospital Bag Essentials:
- Diapers: Newborns need 8-12 diaper changes a day.
- At least 5 sets of comfortable clothing
- Cotton and wool blankets
- Burp cloths
- Socks, onesies
- Alcohol and cotton for umbilical cord care
- Gas relief drops for colic
- Newborn formula, bottles, pacifiers
- Thermometer, diaper rash cream
- Hat, mittens
- Seasonal cardigan or sweater
- Sheets, pillowcase, and a pillow for the crib
Mother’s Hospital Bag Essentials:
- Underwear, tank tops
- Nursing bras, maternity pajamas, and nightgowns
- Robe, comb, towel
- Toothbrush, moisturizer
- Nipple cream
- Lactation tea
- Plenty of water and fluids
- Energy-boosting snacks
- Slippers, socks
- Maternity headband, soap, deodorant
- Breast pads, sanitary pads
- Wet wipes, laundry bag
- Video camera, camera, makeup
- Tissues, breast pump, silicone nipple shields
Hospital Room Hospitality
Additionally, it is standard practice to prepare refreshments for visitors who come to the hospital room. In American and British traditions, post-birth hospitality includes creative and delicious items such as refrigerator magnets with the baby’s name and birth date, lavender sachets, baby-themed cookies, elegant chocolates, Turkish delight, small bottles of cologne, baby bottle-shaped candy almonds, mini muffins, soaps, and personalized champagne glasses. These thoughtful touches add a special element to the celebration of the baby’s arrival.
