If you have been on birth-tok, or watched doulas around Instagram, you probably have seen videos of doula bags packed to the brim with all kinds of “goodies”. Maybe they’re full of comfort measures, or even affirmation banners. While those are super cute, we believe that your birthing experience should be as unique as you are. That’s why we encourage you to bring along your own items from home. Whether it’s your favorite pillow, (you should bring it if you’re a pillow snob like me) a cozy blanket, or that playlist that never fails to bring you a little comfort, these personal touches can turn a hospital room into a space that feels a little more like home. (We won’t even get into the sanitation aspect of shared items.) You, too, can Pack Your Bag Like a Doula.
Here are our top suggestions for clients to consider bringing to the hospital for comfort:
- Heating Pad- This is great for use alone or with counter pressure. This can also be used if you have to be stationary or in the bed. A heating pad is also great for afterbirth pains! (I do still bring a heating pad in my doula bag, it’s for ME. :))
- Honey Sticks- Honey sticks are a great way to support sugar and caloric needs during labor without a lot of heavy food on your stomach. They are easy to cut open and eat as well! (I kept these in my bag for a long time, since they are single use and are thrown away after, but I never used them quickly enough and they would crystalize in my bag. They are best used fresh.)
- A tennis ball or lacrosse ball with a sock or a massage tool- some clients like a massage with the pressure of the ball others like a handheld tool, and others prefer their support person’s hands.
- Plastic comb- some folks find this tool useful during contractions. To use for labor, place the comb in your palm, with the teeth at the base of your hand, and wrap your hand around during contractions.
- Aromatherapy- if you use essential oils in your home, consider placing some of your favorite scents on some cotton balls, and placing those cotton balls in a ziploc bag, separating them by scent. You can pull the cotton balls out as needed, and quickly replace them if you decide during labor that you do not enjoy that particular essential oil anymore. (Plus, using the cotton ball method versus difussing, helps protect your birth team if they have sensitivities.)
- Playlist- You know what music you love and what helps you relax. Your playlist is going to be the best one for your birth. (You can learn more about the perfect playlist on one of our blog posts!)
- Wrap- For supporting your belly, lifting your belly gently, tying the heating pad to your back, etc.
- Twinkle lights or a light projector- keeping the “big lights” down can help the flow of oxytocin and help with the “homey” vibe you’re trying to create. (One of our local hospitals has a few light projectors available for patient use.) If you’re having an overnight induction, consider a second set of lights to keep in the bathroom so you don’t have to turn on the fluorescent bathroom lights at night.
- Snacks- for you and your support person. Think easy-to-eat, quick snacks like crackers, beef jerky, etc.
Don’t feel like you have to memorize all the ways to utilize the tools you’ve packed! Your Rocket City Doulas can demonstrate ideas on how to use them, and they can even give you more ideas on things you can pack for labor so you can Pack Your Bag Like a Doula.
