Some time in the third trimester is the right time to start thinking about packing your bag for hospital. Here are our top 5 essential items to stash in that bag for new mums to be:
TENS Machine (and electrodes): This would be the first item to get organised as we’ve heard of many a pregnant mum caught out when labour starts unexpectedly early and they haven’t yet organised their unit! If you’re hiring your machine from us it will come with a set of labour electrodes included as well as a spare battery. If you’re taking your own machine in DON’T forget the electrodes and a spare battery - its obvious why! Tips: a) You can still use your machine as usual if you’re being induced b) Get it on sooner rather than later and c) Don’t forget to ramp up the intensity of your TENS machine to match the intensity of your contractions as they get stronger!
Firm cotton underwear: Particularly after a vaginal birth you want these to provide gentle support to the perineal area whilst holding a pad and ice pack in place. When considering size, you want something firm, not baggy - 1-2 sizes up from your pre-pregnancy size is a good estimate. Hint: Buy a bulk pack in black from any department store which are cheap and wash easily or can be thrown out if required (post partum bleeding can be very heavy in the early stages).
Recovery shorts: Whether you have a vaginal birth or c-section delivery, your recovery wear can be used from the first few days after birth (as soon as comfort allows). At this early stage they can provide great support over any stitches and swollen areas to ease pain and facilitate easier movement. We recommend Solidea recovery shorts which are light and breathable for summer - we can provide free fitting in the clinic.
Ice packs: Ice packs would have to be one of the most underrated recovery (and pain relief) tools for a healing perineum and there is no limit to when you should stop. Ice can be applied for 20 mins up to every 2 hours - for as long as you feel sore and swollen. Ice can also be used to ease sore engorged breasts! The range of products from Body Ice cover both areas with purpose made ice packs for the perineum and breasts. They also come with slip on covers as you should never apply ice directly to the skin. Hint: Body Ice do a great gift pack for the perfect thoughtful baby shower present!
Movicol: Last but not least, one of our top pieces of advice is to keep on a stool softener for the first few weeks after birth to avoid constipation. Straining on the loo (with a perineal stitches or abdominal scar) can be really painful and if repeated or severe may contribute to the occurrence of haemorrhoids or prolapse! You can most likely ask your midwife for a softener whilst you are in hospital but it pays to be prepared with your stash for home. Movicol tends to well tolerated by most and is an osmotic agent whose action is to help keep your bowel motions soft and easy to pass (i.e not a stimulant).
We hope this helps you with the packing process! Let us know your hospital bag essentials!