Every birth is different, but sometimes you're fortunate enough to know when you're baby is coming...like, exactly when baby is coming. Whether your first C-section was planned or an emergency, some C-section moms opt for a repeat C-section the next time around. Although C-section recovery is no picnic, it can be loads better when you're planning for, and expecting, the surgery.
But, this extra ability to plan also means some different things for your hospital bag. For instance, a vaginal birth calls for 1-2 days in the hospital, if there were no added complications. However, the common hospital stay for a C-section is four days. As you might guess, this calls for a completely different type of packing list; you're in for the long haul.What to Pack So You Don't Lack
I remember when I had an emergency C-section with my first, I had a hospital bag all packed and ready to go. But, it didn't end up doing me much good since I only packed for a one or two-day stay. I ended up having to call a friend to bring me some much-needed toiletries including shampoo and conditioner. To help you avoid having to call someone to bring you shower necessities (and since most online packing lists are for normal vaginal births), we've created a handy little packing list so you'll know you have everything you need at the hospital so you can focus on recovering and snuggling that sweet new baby.Toiletries
You'll want all the basics, especially if you live in a dry climate (we're looking at you, chapstick and hand lotion!). A basic list includes: shampoo, conditioner, body wash, moisturizer, deodorant, toothbrush and toothpaste, hair ties, hair brush, headbands, etc. I find it helpful to just go through my bedtime and shower routine when trying to think of what to bring.Pillows
Comfort post-surgery can not be emphasized enough, especially considering you'll want to hold your baby lots. My advice is to bring your favorite pillow for comfort, or to hold against your incision when you cough, laugh, or sneeze. Also bring a trusty nursing pillow so you can get right into the swing of breastfeeding.
Bottles
Whether you're planning to breastfeed or bottle-feed, it's probably a good idea to pack some of your own personal bottles to feed baby with. After all, you'll probably be there about four days, so it's good to get baby in the habit of taking a specific type of bottle to avoid nipple confusion and other feeding issues. We suggest the Como Tomo Bottles to ensure proper latching for the future!
Clothing for You and Baby
Since you're in the hospital for a while, it's nice to have something of your own to put baby in while you're there. Think about the season and weather at hand, but also keep in mind that hospitals are generally cold. Some sleepers that come with hand mittens will definitely be handy so baby stays warm and free of scratches!
As for you, it's also nice to have your own things such as comfy jammies or a robe. Although you'll be spending a lot of time in bed, having some cute comfy clothes to wear will encourage you to get up and walk, which is essential to a quick recovery. It's also a good idea to bring several pairs of socks and some warm slippers to avoid bare-footing those hospital floors.
Belly Support Band
Most moms experience "jelly belly" after having a baby, regardless of whether they had a C-section or not. Still, C-sections call for specialized equipment since your incision will be painful for a while.
The Mother Tucker abdominal binder provides just the right amount of lift and support to keep jelly belly under wraps and feeling good. You can wear it a couple days post-surgery, and for looking put together when you leave the hospital, too!
Swaddle Blankets
The hospital provides some swaddle blankets, but they're usually well-used and not all that cute. Get on top of your swaddling game with some of Little Unicorn's beautiful cotton muslin swaddles or just keep things simple by bringing the Ergobaby Original Swaddle, pictured below: