My first Birth, what should I bring

CallMePatti · Jun 14, 2006

So I'm on pins and needles! I am so excited this will be my forst birth (well first I have not been the mom)
My sister has requested I help he through birth. I have packed alot of things to help through contractions. She seems to be doing very well I've been over acouple times to 'drop in' and go over some methods of relaxation. She has been contracting on and off for a couple weeks- she believes they are intense until the next day her previously intense no longer seems so.
Anyhow, I have some things what items do you feel are helpful in pain management? Or othetr helpful tools?

I used to take a tote bag filled with things I thought I'd use but never did. Over the years I've learned all you really need are your hands and your heart. :)

(A CD of relaxing music is helpful, too.)

BabyRN2Be · Jun 14, 2006

I used to take a tote bag filled with things I thought I'd use but never did. Over the years I've learned all you really need are your hands and your heart. :)
(A CD of relaxing music is helpful, too.)

Exactly! That's what I was going to say. Your hands and heart will beat a bag filled with supplies you might never need!

Also, be patient, come with an open mind as birth is not cut and dried - no two births are exactly the same. Be prepared to deviate from your plans as situations might arise. I'm not saying it's not a good idea to have plans, just be prepared to change course at any minute.

Best of luck to everyone!

mandana · Jun 14, 2006

Exactly! That's what I was going to say. Your hands and heart will beat a bag filled with supplies you might never need!
Also, be patient, come with an open mind as birth is not cut and dried - no two births are exactly the same. Be prepared to deviate from your plans as situations might arise. I'm not saying it's not a good idea to have plans, just be prepared to change course at any minute.
Best of luck to everyone!

Yep, I'll "third" this vote!

My first child I showed up with three duffel bags full - literally. The nurses were cracking up. "First child, huh?" they all said. None of the stuff I had thought so long and hard about was necessary or useful. The only thing I think I used from any of those bags was my toothbrush.

Second child - I brought one teensy little bag with toiletries and going home clothes for the baby.

htrn · Jun 14, 2006

I have to take exception with the previous posts :chair: - Bring a camera ... and your heart and hands. Too many times parents come in for L&D and each think the other has the camera, someone forgot batteries or the flash, no film, etc... There are never too many cameras.

Good luck and enjoy the experience.

BTW - congratulations on being asked to be a part of such an intimate, personal and life changing event.

CEG · Jun 14, 2006

Maybe a little bottle of lotion or massage oil would be nice. A good back rub, foot rub, or pressure on the lower back or hips always feels great. Also maybe some chapstick. Ad I agree, CD and player. Have fun:)

dreamingofbeing · Jun 15, 2006

I remember the big bag of stuff you didn't use. I have to agree with everyone else. I did use lotion and one of those little back massagers that look like a 3 legged spider.

rpbear · Jun 15, 2006

I agree what witheveryone else. I will add extra socks/slippers for mom, I can't tell you how many pairs of socks and slippers that have got "stuff" on them and mom has not brought extras. Also, snacks and change for the vending machines for yourself and Dad.

Good luck! Keep a positive attitude and a good sense of humor, it will be great!

allnurses Guide · Jun 15, 2006

Make sure the mom brings her own sanitary pads . .. . the ones at the hospital are from the 1950's and need a sanitary belt to wear. At least at my hospital . . . . :uhoh3:

Make sure her pitcher is filled with crushed ice.

Massaging her feet with oil/lotion is a great idea.

steph

MS._Jen_RN, ASN, RN · Jun 15, 2006

Make sure the mom brings her own sanitary pads . .. . the ones at the hospital are from the 1950's and need a sanitary belt to wear. At least at my hospital . . . .
steph

:yeahthat:

Ours TOO! You'd think someone would catch on to the whole adhesive thing. I mean really. . . .

~Jen

htrn · Jun 15, 2006

:yeahthat: The pads we give moms are 8X12 inches and look soooooo uncomfortable. We jokingly tell moms that both she and the baby get diaper -- Not to mention the disposable undies. I tell them they are Victoria's Secret undies, Victoria has to keep them a secret or she'll go out of business:lol2:

CEG · Jun 15, 2006

I love the disposable undies. Am I a freak? I thought they were comfy. I told my DH I was taking some home.

I also though of something else- she may want a maternity bikini or tank top in case she want to labor in a jacuzzi/tub/shower and is self conscious. And I ate bit-o-honey's when in labor with my second baby and nothing ever tasted so good- maybe some little mild tasting candy, too. Okay, so I am one of those people who show up with a big bag every time :) I oculd go on and on.