Swimming babies

Event of the month

Next stop: the maternity ward!

When you enter your eighth month of pregnancy, you can start thinking about packing your bag for the maternity ward.

To avoid having to rush, take the time to plan out everything that your baby will need for his stay in the hospital, and don´t forget to write a short list for your own things.
Once your bag is packed, it will come in very handy if you have to leave for the maternity ward in a hurry!

Basic items for baby:

5 or 6 terrycloth pyjamas or sleepsuits
5 or 6 cotton vests (or bodysuits)
3 or 4 woollen vests
Bibs for newborns
3 or 4 pairs of woollen bootees (or socks)
1 woollen hat
1 warm going-home outfit + sleeping bag or blanket

In addition, at some private clinics you may be asked to bring:
sheets for cot (pack 2 to 4 pairs)
baby toiletries (complete changes for newborn, nappy cream, baby lotion, etc…)

For the day you go home, remember to think about transport for baby: Moses basket if on foot or car-seat (facing away from the road) if travelling by car.

Basic items for mum:

Unlike baby´s list, the "basic" list is almost identical for all mothers, regardless of the ward or clinic.

3 or 4 nightshirts (open if you want to breastfeed)
washcloth and towels
bathrobe
slippers
disposable briefs or adjustable maternity briefs
sanitary pads
hairdryer
water mister spray (for delivery room)
your toiletries (don´t forget your makeup bag)

If you have decided to breastfeed:

2 or 3 nursing bras (opt for one size bigger than your size at the end of pregnancy)
Cold/hot breast pads (to relieve pain caused by lactation)
Nursing breast pads

Administrative documents to remember:

Don´t forget to pack any administrative documents that will be required during your stay in hospital, along with the results of any tests carried out during your pregnancy (scan, blood tests, x-rays, etc.) which may be of importance for the birth.

Tips:

In order to ensure you pack everything that´s needed, make sure you enquire at your maternity ward. Each maternity ward may have its own requirements which will vary depending on whether you give birth at a public or private establishment. Ask for the list during your prenatal visit.

If you are having a Caesarean, you may spend up to 8 or 10 days in hospital, so make sure you pack everything that you and your baby will need.

You will soon realise that preparing your hospital bag is something to be enjoyed, as it helps to make the last 8 months of waiting feel worthwhile…
Now you know that you´re ready for the big day!

TIGEX - a complete baby product range (breast feeding, bottle feeding, nipples, tableware, ...) for the comfort of your baby and its parents. ALLEGRE PUERICULTURE - 41, Rue Edouard Martel - B.P 197 - 42 013 SAINT-ETIENNE cedex2 - FRANCE - Tel : +33 4 77 81 81 81 - Fax : +33 4 77 81 81 85