Packing for your cesarean
A few weeks ago, we posted our recommendations for what to pack for your labor in the hospital. Today- let’s talk about what we would pack for a planned cesarean birth! I (Tracy) am both a Cesarean and VBAC mom myself. Though it’s been a bit since my cesarean, there are definitely a few items I’d make sure to add to a planned cesarean birth bag!
Our previous list was a bag packed just for labor. Here are the things we’d keep on both lists and a few new suggestions for Packing for your cesarean birth and time immediately after. (This list does not include items we’d suggest packing for your postpartum recovery.)
- Your cesarean birth plan- something that has your preferences for
- Hair ties- while you might not use this during the birth of your baby, you may want your hair tied up while you are in recovery.
- Chapstick- you may find you’re a little dehydrated from not having anything to eat or drink, and your lips may need some extra hydration.
- Socks- they may give you some grippy ones in the hospital, but you may want your comfy cozies after birth.
- Nursing pillow- though you may want to swing it to the side so it avoids your fresh incision.
- Bottle- if you’re planning to bottle feed from the beginning
- Snacks for your partner
- Sweatshirt for your partner- particularly if they are cold-natured
- Camera
- A belly binder– if recommended by your provider (definitely a question to ask!)
- Stretchy underwear that doesn’t rub your incision if you don’t want to utilize the hospital’s mesh panties.
- Charging cords for electronics, including phones
- Downloaded music or meditations for the waiting time spent in pre-op.
What would you add to a “Packing for your cesarean” list?
