What to take for maternity? All you need to know!

What to bring to the maternity ward , as the possible date of delivery approaches, it’s time to prepare the suitcase that will accompany the mother to the hospital . Not knowing exactly when the big day will arrive, it’s best to have everything in place in advance. But what to bring for childbirth? Then a list of those elements that cannot be missing.

The eighth month of pregnancy is a good time to start preparing your maternity bag. Starting early enough to organize and buy what is needed makes the task more relaxed. On the other hand, the baby’s arrival can be a few days ahead, so it’s always best to be cautious and organize.

What to bring for maternity? Seven must-haves for baby:

1. Pajamas:

It is common for public health service hospitals to provide pajamas for newborns, but some mothers prefer not to wear them.

2. Hat and gloves:

Once the baby is born, the healthcare provider will place a hat on the baby’s head so that it stays at a stable temperature. Also, it is advisable to put gloves on small hands to avoid scratching the delicate face with your nails.

3. Diapers and scarves:

The hospital can provide diapers and wipes for changing children. However, it never hurts to have one, even if it’s a pack of each, in case an unexpected event arises.

4. Bibs and gauze:

Bibs are very useful to prevent the child from staining their clothes if they have regurgitation. On the other hand, gauze is recommended to clean the baby if you add some milk.

5. Cover or toquila:

Very useful for covering and protecting the child when he is held in your arms, or for leaving the hospital if the temperature is low.

6. Outfit clothes:

Parents can release any of the clothes they bought for their child on the day they were discharged. In addition, it must be taken into account that the clothing must be comfortable.

7. Mocking baby:

Parents can carry a cosmetic bag, which includes a small comb, a cologne bottle, baby shampoo and baby bottom ointment in case it irritates.

Essentials for Mom:

1. Toiletries:

Maternal needs must have the basics of hygiene during their stay in the hospital: soap, deodorant, shampoo, toothbrush and toothpaste , comb, moisturizing cream and a pack of absorbents (larger than usual). It doesn’t hurt to put on makeup or rouge (if you wear it), so you feel as beautiful as ever.

2. Clothes for the mother:

The woman should wear at least one pair of nightgowns with an opening in the front, to facilitate breastfeeding, a bathrobe and slippers. Also, to be comfortable when leaving the hospital , it is convenient to wear the same clothes that were used during pregnancy, since in two or three days your body is unlikely to regain its previous size.

3. Bra:

The woman who is going to breastfeed her baby will need a pair of nursing bras and a pack of immersion discs to prevent milk leakage. The panties should be loose and comfortable, cotton or, if you prefer, disposable.

For the companion:

• Two changes of clothes.
• Socks and slippers for walking around the house.
• Personal hygiene items . Soaps can be shared with the mother and we avoid being overweight.
• Cell phone and charger.
• Camera and charger (if desired).

In any case, what we cannot do is fill the bag with the famous “just in case”. Obviously, you can’t fill the hospital with everything you’d like. In case you need something that you don’t have, you should remember that you are in a hospital and most likely asking they will provide it.

On the other hand, if our hospital stay is finally extended due to circumstances, there should be no panic. All we have to do is ask someone to come home, get the things we need and, patiently and until everything is in order, wait for us to be discharged.

Documentation for childbirth:

In addition to the necessary equipment for the mother and baby, it is advisable to have prepared in advance the documentation that will be necessary for the care in the health center to be carried out effectively. These are the essential documents:

• Birth plan: This document , which is provided to women at their health center check-ups, collects their preferences, needs and expectations about the birth and birth process.
• Implemented since 2007 within the Ministry of Health’s Normal Birth Care Strategy, it is advisable to prepare him between the 28th and 32nd weeks of pregnancy, with the help of the midwife, who accompanies the pregnancy. Among other aspects, it includes choosing the location and position during childbirth, who wants to accompany her, whether or not she wants analgesia, which cuts the couple’s umbilical cord or their decision regarding breastfeeding.
• Health identification: It is necessary to carry the Social Security health card or the insurance company’s health card, if the delivery is carried out in a private hospital.
• Medical documentation: Although the health center usually records the results of medical tests performed during pregnancy, you must take them to the hospital, and hand over staff to care for the expectant mother.