What did you bring to the hospital for birth ?

Question

Hi ladies! FTM here. I’ll be giving birth at an on base hospital. I’m curious as to what I should pack in my bag as well as baby’s bag. I know a lot of civilian hospitals provide things such as formula and diapers during your hospital stay. Do the base hospitals provide those things as well ? Or should I pack my own ?

Answer

I gave birth at a hospital on base and they provided everything. The only items I used for myself and the baby were our going home outfits, my own swaddle for her and my makeup/ beauty products. I also brought a pillow and blanket for my husband cuz the ones they provide at the hospital aren't the best.
My advice would be to bring a bag with you so you can grab as much as you can from the hospital. Can't go wrong with getting free stuff.

Answer

If you’re breastfeeding, bring your pump with flanges and make sure they (OB, nurses, midwife, or Lactation Consultant) fit you properly. 
Tricare still pays for a pump.  Your OB should be able to give you a prescription and they should have pumps available at the pharmacy on base. The hospital or your OB should have a lactation consultant or know of one to refer you to. 
Proper fit is so important if you have decided to breastfeed and pump. It’s one area that military doctors are lacking knowledge in from my experience.

Answer

The hospital I went to provided absolutely everything you could’ve possibly needed. From onesies, diapers, wipes, pads, pajamas to wear. Everything.

Answer

I gave birth at Camp Pendleton Naval Hospital. I brought a hair brush, a hair tie, face wash/night routine things like toothbrush and toothpaste, my glasses, a phone charger, extra undies, body soap, shampoo+conditioner, socks, slippers, a nursing tank, some comfy sweats, a going home outfit for her (I wore sweats and thank God since I had a second degree tear), and my wallet. They provided formula, a swaddle blanket, a pacifier, diapers, wipes, and anything else she needed. I wish I would have brought Zantac and Tums with me since my heartburn didn’t go away and I was so distracted with labor that I didn’t take one before I went to the hospital.

What did you bring to the hospital for birth ?

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