The time has come. You're 30-35 weeks pregnant and you're gearing up for delivery. For me, packing my birthing bag was both exciting (yay, the baby is coming!) and a little nerve wracking (oh wait, we're really about to do this thing). But once my bag was packed and ready to go, I felt more secure, I was prepared.
There are so many essentials that you should bring to the hospital or birthing center (robe, phone charging cables, book, pillow, etc) There are a few things that I was SO grateful to have with me my for my births, and you may not have thought of these before. If you are planning a home birth, these items should still be on your shopping list.
1. Flannel button down shirt
I bet you're thinking.... a flannel? Flannels for me equal a pumpkin spice latte in hand and the crisp fall air, not after pushing out a baby. BUT, they are so much more comfortable to nurse with than a robe. A flannel is less bulky, and more functional than a robe. It won't bunch up and they keep you nice and warm. For me, The Bearded Bee makes the softest flannels. They're vintage, renewed, and handmade. Check them out here.
2. Cashmere or Fleece socks
It's COLD in hospitals and my midwife always said that keeping your feet and shoulders covered at all times helps to prevent mastitis (
inflammation of breast tissue that sometimes involves an infection). I'm not sure if thats true or not, but it can't hurt! I followed her advice and never got mastitis. Baby Be Mine makes adorable hospital socks with adorable sayings on the feet. Check out the options here!
3. L'oved Baby Organic Onesie
These are the BEST. Their beautiful organic garments don't contain contain any toxic heavy metals, formaldehyde, aromatic solvents, functional nanoparticles, or genetically modified organisms (GMO). These are the onesies that I used the most with my newborns and that I have kept as heirlooms to give to my kiddos one day. The fit is amazing, they are more snug than other newborns onesies, which keeps the baby warmer. The fabric is also lovely and thick and its organic so safe for very sensitive newborn skin. Get yours here.
4. Nalakai Perineal Spray
I am SO excited to introduce Nalakai Naturals, our new line of of skincare! All of our skincare products are natural, organic, safe for pregnant women and new moms and eco-friendly. I am so passionate about empowering women through pregnancy, birth and motherhood and I wanted to make organic products that help women heal. I have been working for a long time with doctors, midwives and leading chemists to develop this line.
Our Healing Herbal Perineal Spray will be your best friend after birth! It has an aloe juice base to soothe and help you heal, along with organic witch hazel. We've added lavender, cucumber and peppermint for cleaning, soothing and healing. This spray will clean your sensitive areas, provide pain relief, reduce swelling and help you heal faster. Plus, it has an upside down sprayer so you don't need to touch and sore areas. Just spray and relax. You will love the numbing, cooling and tingling sensation! Use it whenever you go to the bathroom or any time when you need some relief. The Perineal Spray is available on Amazon.com. Have a look here!
5. Organic, oil based nipple cream
I used Motherlove. It will save you and you'll want it on ALL the time. As soon as your baby finishes nursing, re-apply. Putting a balm or cream on all the time whn you're first nursing will save you from sore, cracked nipples. Motherlove is olive oil based and organic so safe for baby and you don't have to wash off before nursing! The jars are small, I ordered two right away when I was pregnant with my second baby, Nala.
Now get packing mama! What items are a MUST have for you in your hospital bag? We would love for you to share your wisdom with other mamas. Leave a comment below
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Anne Ferris
June 01, 2020
Hi Ashley! Thank you so much for your support! I’m so sorry the link wasn’t working. It should be fixed now :) Anne xoxo