By: JOSH MOORE
The last weeks of pregnancy can seem interminably long, but one thing is certain – that baby will make an appearance! When that day – or night – comes, the last thing you want is to be saddled with packing your hospital bag. Advanced preparation – at least three weeks before your predicted due date – is easy; prepare a checklist and divide it between the “must-haves” and the “nice-to-have” to prioritize your packing. Include some advanced shopping for your postpartum wardrobe that provides you with a welcome mental “lift” in the midst of many physical and emotional adjustments. Hudson Valley Family Doulas is happy to present some tips and resources that can help you get your postpartum plan into action.
You’ll need this but you’ll miss that
Have any insurance and ID documentation, hospital paperwork, and a list of any medications you’re taking securely tucked away but easily accessible. If this information is stored digitally, make sure your birthing partner has access to it. You might also tuck a credit card and some emergency cash into an envelope for your birth partner. Keep the cash to a bare minimum, and leave your other valuables safe at home. If you have a birth plan on paper, include this as well.
If you wear contacts, be sure to pack your lens solution, a storage case, and an extra pair of lenses, as well as your eyeglasses. Be sure to also pack your cellphone charger.
Once your necessities are organized and stowed, focus on the small luxuries and conveniences. You’ll welcome a book or other reading material if your baby plays a waiting game. Slipping into your own pajamas, robe, and slippers after delivery can be a welcome change from the hospital attire. Also, be sure to include a comfortable nursing nightgown (or two), nursing bras and pads, and your own breast pump, just in case.
Having your own toiletries and undergarments can also add some semblance of normalcy to what can be a somewhat disorganized and, let’s face it, surreal experience!
Last but not least, your birthing partner should pack snacks and a change of clothes, and include the baby’s outfit for the journey home.
Do you need ‘mommy’ clothes?
It’s not uncommon for new moms to wear their maternity clothes after delivery. Your postpartum body will be adjusting for quite some time, obliging you to weigh your comfort and convenience against the need for some sense of style. In your first week or so, you may find yourself living in your nursing gowns or other loose and comfortable dresses that don’t cause abdominal discomfort – this is particularly true if you delivered via C-section.
When you’re at home, any style that offers easy nursing access is adequate, but you fortunately also have many stylish nursing options available as well. Look for a nursing scarf that provides a smart style option if you prefer nursing discretion while maintaining your baby’s comfort.
If you prefer pants, get some loose-fitting loungewear. Many moms also appreciate the comfort and flexibility of leggings and yoga pants. If you wore maternity leggings while pregnant, these can continue to do double-duty for several weeks following delivery and can ease you into a gentle postpartum exercise routine. Adding some stylish long shirts or tunics can quickly transition these comfortable bottoms into a chic and trendy outfit.
Keep something for you
Babies consume us in their early days, demanding most of our time and attention. Maintaining a comfortable yet fashionable sense of style allows you to keep your individual identity, even as you perform your best at the most important job you’ll ever have.
If you need trusted, experienced support during your journey, reach out to the experts at Hudson Valley Family Doulas by visiting our website or calling 845-288-1985.
Photo by Kelly Sikkema via Unsplash
Parenting is a learning experience, but it definitely helps to have some backup when you aren’t sure what you’re doing. That’s why Josh decided to create diaperdads: to give all the dads out there the credit they deserve and some much needed advice when life seems consumed with diapers, fruit pouches, and tantrums. Check him out at diaperdads.org!
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