Are you planning on having a c-section or have been told by your OB that there's a good chance you will need one? Here's the ultimate checklist for what to pack in your hospital bag.
Jump to:
Hospital bag for mom
When you have a c-section, plan to be at the hospital longer. Here's what I packed in mine for my planned c-section:
- 3 Nursing tops
- 2 pajama pants
- 1 dress for pictures and going home
- socks-because the hospital socks just don't cut it.
- Toothbrush and tooth paste
- Hair brush, shampoo, conditioner
- mascara (for pictures)
- deodorant
- flipflops/sandals
- a stool- depending on what you drive, if you are leaving the hospital and need to step up into your car, bring a stool. Those couple extra inches don't seem like much before, but after a c-section, it's agony!
- a pillow-for the ride home, having a pillow pressed against your stomach will make the drive a lot more manageable.
- phone charger
- chapstick
- Your birth plan (if you have one). Learn more about how to create a birth plan here.
Hospital bag for dad
Just like with mom, dad needs to pack a few extra clothes for the stay because recovery time for a c-section is longer.
- 3 shirts & 3 pants/shorts
- gym shorts for sleeping in
- glasses
- contact solution
- hair brush & shampoo
- toothbrush & toothpaste
- deodorant
- snacks
- phone charger
Does baby need a bag too?
Yes! Pack a cute outfit and swaddle blanket for photos. You can also pack just a few diapers and wipes but for the most part your hospital will have what baby needs while you are there.
What to bring home from the hospital
- belly binder-wearing this makes everyday life a lot less painful (from sneezing to coughing to walking).
- perineal spray bottle-this helps you clean down there after going to the bathroom.
- As many mesh underwear as they let you have.
- Thick pads or stock up on some extra heavy maxi pads.
C Section FAQ
With a c-section, you will have to stay longer, so pack at least 3 days of clothes for you and your partner. Don't forget bathroom toiletries like your toothbrush, and toothpaste, a pillow for the ride home, and your phone charger.
A belly binder is a must! The hospital will provide you with this, and make sure to wear it for at least a couple of weeks afterward to help support your abdomen.
Moms will also need a lot more help because they can only carry baby, not a car seat or other heavy items while they heal.
You will want to have a peri bottle to help clean after you go to the bathroom, stool softener, a rocking chair or stool to help you get into bed, and lots of household items so you don't need to go to the store right away.
You will want to wear the mesh underwear that your hospital gives you, but also pack some large granny panties. Also, pack clothes that are loose fitting, so it's not pressing on your incision area too much. Lastly, pack socks and slippers or sandals because the sooner you get up and start walking, the better!
Join the Discussion