Most Used and Unused Items from My Hospital Bag
Figured I’d do a follow up to my Hospital Bag post to share what items I found helpful and which ones I didn’t need in the end. I still recommend packing everything from the article anyway if you’re not sure what to expect, especially because I’ve heard of different items being useful for different experiences.
Most Used Items
PET Bottle Straw
This was a life saver! During labor my husband was able to give me water. Also, when I had to remain in a horizontal position post surgery, having a straw in my water bottles was so helpful.
2. Energy Jellies
All throughout labor my husband fed these to me and they were great for a quick boost of energy. I also found myself surprisingly thirsty during breastfeeding and I liked drinking these during feeds.
3. Water!
While my clinic does have a vending machine with water, having the 2L bottles from the convenience store on hand were super helpful as I was drinking non-stop. Definitely recommend bringing them along even if your hospital has vending machines
Unused/Hardly Used Items
Postpartum Care Items
Since I had a c-section, I wound up not using any of the Frida postpartum care items (disposable underwear, pads, peri bottle, donut, wipes, sprays). The hospital provided postpartum panties and pads which I did use.
2. Clothes
Even though I brought some v-neck clothing and nightgowns, I found it easier to use the hospital clothing because they are robe-style with buttons which means it’s a lot easier to take on and off (especially after surgery) and to breast feed. My clinic offered renting then for 300 yen a piece).
3. Portable Electronic Fan
Some women swear that having a fan is great during labor so I’d recommend bringing one anyway, but in my case I didn’t use the fan at all. My room had a temperature control so regulating the temperature was fine, and even in the delivery room I didn’t feel too hot.
4. Shampoo, Conditioner and Body Wash
I brought travel size toiletries with me but the hospital had these in the shower. The only thing I used from home was my face wash.
Things the hospital provided that were great
Essential oils
During labor, the nurse offered me an aromatherapy cloth with a few different scent options. I picked geranium - honestly, this may as well have been crack because I was SO hooked on it during labor! Just smelling it made the contractions seem less intense. I’d check with your hospital to find out if they provide scents during labor and if not, bring something you love with you.
2. Postpartum underwear
Even though I brought some postpartum underwear with me, I liked the ones that the hospital provided because they had this Velcro on it that made it easy to adjust.
Alright, that’s it for my write up - feel free to check out my other post for the full list of what I brought to the hospital, here!