Unexpected hospital bag heroes

I read so many blogs and articles about what to pack in my hospital bag, but these are some of the unexpected items that I really found helped me out.

TENS machine

I first learned about TENS machines during my antenatal classes as a way to manage early labour contractions. Contractions are PAINFUL, but the TENS machine took the edge off for me.

The small electrical pulses gave my mind something else to focus on. I wore it almost continuously from the very first contraction until I was moved to the delivery suite. Although I can’t say for sure if it will work for you, I would 100% use one again if I decide to have another baby. I hired a TENS machine from ElleTENS.com and was really happy with the service.

Peri bottle

This was an absolute lifesaver when I had to do my first wee after giving birth. I was so scared to wee in case it stung after having some stitches. But using the peri bottle made it painless. By spraying a constant stream of warm water while I went, I diluted the urine and prevented the stinging sensation. I continued to use it for a couple of weeks postpartum. I got mine on Temu. I would recommend a 500ml one as you use more water than you think!

Flip-flops

After delivery, my feet and ankles swelled so much that I couldn't fit into my usual shoes for a few weeks. It was useful to have some easy-to-slip-on shoes, like flip-flops, whilst walking around the room and for wearing in the shower at the hospital.

Compression socks

Leading on from my last point, if you do experience the foot swelling, I would also recommend getting some compression socks to actively help reduce the swelling. I found that wearing these, combined with regular foot massages, helped speed up the recovery.

Maternity pads

Lots of maternity pads. I had a vaginal birth, and I wasn’t prepared for the amount of maternity pads I would need at the hospital. I actually had to ask a family member to bring a backup stash to the hospital because I ran out! The ones provided by the hospital weren't great, so I was glad I took my own. For the first few days when the bleeding was heaviest, I used the Abena maternity pads. They are super thick, absorbent, and comfortable. Once the bleeding became lighter a few days later, I switched to the Lil-Lets maternity pads, which were much less bulky.

Large knickers

Think granny pants. The maternity pads are seriously thick and bulky, so granny pants are an absolute must to ensure coverage and comfort. I got mine from Primark in one size larger than I would usually wear, and they were perfect.

Isotonic sports drinks

I took bottles of Lucozade Sport to help keep my energy levels up and prevent me from getting dehydrated. I also found they really helped curb the sick feeling I got after using gas and air during delivery.

Pick n mix sweets

Labour is hard work, and the postpartum hormone crash is real. I have a major sweet tooth, so this was a godsend after giving birth and for a much-needed sugar fix. I always order mine from Sweetzy, and they never disappoint!

Thank you for reading!

If you’re pregnant and getting ready to give birth, I wish you the best of luck. You’ve got this!