b3 b0rn.. c0nf0rm, b3 si|3nt .. di3

am on a posting rampage….. so shoot me!

during me last pregnancy, only packed a bag after getting ‘the show’ and even then there were no baby things.. that was how unprepared i was.. very bad u see…

now i got me the trusty babycenter site to at least provide some basic checklist as to what to bring along….

Essentials for Mom

• Nursing bra
  Supports swollen, sore breasts and keeps breast pads in place * can’t live without
• Breast pads
  These stop messy leaks by absorbing milk * can’t live without - unless you like ppl staring at your bosom area
• Nursing pillow
  Reduces the strain on your arms, neck, and back while nursing
• Nightgown and robe
  More comfortable than standard hospital gowns
• Slippers  
  For walking around the hospital during early labor *
• Socks
  To keep your feet warm during delivery *
• Going-home outfit
  Choose something that fit during your sixth month of pregnancy
• Toiletries
  Toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, lip balm, makeup, hairbrush, shampoo, and soap * no hotel i am heading for - it’s gomen hospital for god’s sake
• Sanitary pads
  You’ll be more comfortable after delivery with your favorite brand * there’s a special type for postnatal - need to check with me mama again what’s the brand
• Camera
  For all those important first photos * make that a digital camera, make sure it’s fully charged, and memory cards are prepped upfront. i’ve learnt my mistake from kya’s time.. lost 3 precious weeks’ worth of photos due to exposure of film… huwaaaa
• Address book
  You’ll have plenty of calls to make * just keep ur contacts in mobile is updated and for those on pre-paid, buy the topup cards just in case

Essentials for your baby * all in this list is necessary

• Infant car seat
  You can’t leave the hospital without one
• Going-home outfit
  A soft, adorable footed outfit for your baby’s first homecoming
• Hat
  Prevents heat loss by covering your baby’s head
• Booties/socks
  To keep little feet snug and warm
• Receiving blankets
  Newborns love to be swaddled
• Newborn disposable diapers
  * Added this one since am going to gomen hospital - they don’t prepare these for you.
   
  Don’t forget your health insurance card and your pediatrician’s name and phone number. The hospital staff will likely ask for both when you arrive. 

Nice extras

• Video camera
  To document those precious first moments of your baby’s life
• Hair clip or band
  Keeps hair out of the way during delivery
• Massage oils
  Especially helpful for relieving back labor
• CDs/CD player
  Soothing music can help you relax before and after delivery
• Pillow from home
  Adds a touch of familiar comfort
• Magazines
  You can expect some down time, but you won’t want a novel
• Snacks
  Bring something to munch on during the early stages of delivery
• TV channel guide
  You’ll likely have a TV in the room

Update 23.01.2007:

am placing an asterix to denote those that i feel is necessary - others are just nice-to-haves