When I first realised I was pregnant, there was suddenly this influx of information from everywhere: family, relatives, friends, internet... it is really overwhelming. So one of the things people told me was to prepare a hospital bag by week 32. So now, at week 35, I'm sharing my list with you!
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| Image courtesy of USA Intern |
This list is adapted from various sources, theasianparent, babycentre, antenatal class information from KK Hospital, and from experienced parents.
In Singapore, delivery usually takes place in hospitals, where most of the necessities are provided from. If you are not planning to deliver in a hospital, this list may not be applicable to you.
Many people recommend packing two separate bags, one for the delivery and the other for the admission thereafter. However, if your spouse is unable to travel to and fro to bring you the bag after delivery, it may make more sense to just bring everything along.
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| Image courtesy of Dailyupdate UK |
1. Birth Plan: This is the document that communicates to the midwives and doctors what is most important to you and your partner during the birthing process.
I have briefly sounded out my Gynaecologist and she mentioned that some birthing methods popular in western countries are not available in Singapore, but we can provide her with the list during regular checkups and she will advise on what are the things that can be done or can't (not available, or may endanger the baby/ mother). To take a look at my very simple birth plan, check out my following post here.
2. Personal Documents: Bring along your Antenatal Booklet which will contain information about your allergies and other conditions. For admission itself, bring along your identification documents (NRIC or passport/ work pass) and the doctor's inpatient admission authorisation form.
3. Cardigan and socks: It may get cold inside the delivery suite, especially if you need to spend longer than expected in there. Bring an old cardigan and a pair of old socks, as they will probably be stained or soiled in the process. Papa-to-be should pack a set along to fight the cold as well, as you will there for as long as your wife is there.
4. Lip Balm and lotion: Lip balm is apparently an essential for the delivery suite as the lips get chapped and dry from lack of water intake and the environment.
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| Image courtesy of The Asian Parent |
6. Relaxation items: If you think it will help you, bring along some soothing music or your most comforting stuffed animal as it can be a long battle. I have a friend who brought a pillow along!
7. Pen and paper: The conventional and most reliable tool you can use to document every moment down.
8. Underpads: Put these in your bag as they will be useful if your waterbag burst and you need to take a car/ taxi.
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| Image courtesy of Floral Garage SG |
1. Toiletries and slippers: Do remember to pack toiletries for both papa and mama if papa is planning to bunk in as well.
2. Clothes: For the mother, bring a set of clothes to wear upon discharge. Remember that you probably still cannot fit into your pre-pregnancy clothes, so do bring along your maternity/ nursing clothes instead. For the father, pack a few sets of clothes for the duration of stay.
3. Nursing bras: If you intend to breastfeed, this will come in handy. I heard that hospitals will typically provide maternity underwear. KKH will also provide a box of cold pads for pain relief. You may want to bring along your own maternity pads and breast pads just in case.
4. Cosmetics: To ensure that you look radiant and good for the visitors and the 1001 photos your spouse may be taking.
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| Image courtesy of Aden Anais |
6. Newborn Car Seat: If you are driving, remember to install the car seat earlier (and check that it is properly installed!) so that your newborn can have a safe ride home.
That's all you will need for the big day! Do share with us what was in your hospital bag as well!
