Preparing your hospital bag for birth might be something you've left to the last minute. There are lots of lists on Google, Pinterest, etc. to help you get prepared but here are three things you might not have thought about bringing that can be super helpful!
1. A Sleep Mask.
This can be great for labour & your postpartum stay. Having a sleep mask can help you get a break if you're feeling over stimulated during labour or want to try and get a little rest. Wearing a sleep mask can help create a sense of personal space and privacy, especially if you prefer to block out visual distractions from others in the room.
It's also great for your hospital stay as it's not always the most cozy environment, and there's often nurses coming in and out to do checks.
Having a sleep mask can help you get as much rest as possible!
Compression socks are not only beneficial during pregnancy but also provide several advantages for postpartum recovery. Compression socks apply gentle pressure to the legs, improving blood circulation and preventing fluid buildup. By reducing swelling, they can alleviate discomfort and help you feel more comfortable during the recovery period.
Postpartum women are at a higher risk of developing blood clots. Compression socks promote blood flow and prevent blood from pooling in the veins.
The physical demands of labor and delivery can leave your legs feeling tired, achy, or heavy. Compression socks provide support to the muscles and tissues in your legs, reducing discomfort and fatigue. They can also help alleviate leg cramps and restless leg syndrome, providing relief during the postpartum period.
After childbirth, your body goes through a healing process. Compression socks can aid in this process by promoting optimal circulation, which helps deliver oxygen and essential nutrients to the healing tissues. Improved blood flow can also aid in the removal of waste products, facilitating faster healing and recovery.
3. Energy Gels
Energy gels or sports gels, are commonly used by runners and athletes to provide a quick and convenient source of energy during endurance activities, and we all know giving birth is like running a marathon, so they can be super useful here as well! Plus most health care providers will consider them a liquid and won't have issues with consumption during labour (there is also plenty of evidence showing benefits of eating while in labour).
Fitness gels are designed to deliver a concentrated dose of carbohydrates. These carbohydrates are quickly absorbed into the bloodstream, providing a rapid source of energy to fuel your muscles.
Many fitness gels contain a combination of simple and complex carbohydrates. This blend helps provide both an immediate burst of energy and a more sustained release, allowing you to maintain energy levels over an extended period.
They can delay the onset of fatigue, allowing you to sustain a higher intensity for longer periods.
Energy gels are formulated to be easily digested and absorbed by the body. They are generally low in fiber and fat, which can minimize the risk of gastrointestinal discomfort during labour.
Will you be adding any of these items to your hospital bag?
Let me know in the comments!
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