Leap of Faye

A Journey

10 More Things I’ve Learned About Breastfeeding – At 6 Months Postpartum

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Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links.  All opinions are 100% my own.

If you’ve already read my earlier post, 9 Things I Wish Someone Had Told Me About Breastfeeding, you know that breastfeeding has not come easily for me. Written about eight weeks after the birth of my third child, the post shares a bit about the challenges I’ve had – and my ultimate success in finally being able to (almost) exclusively breastfeed lucky baby #3.

The post also talks about many of the truths of breastfeeding that I wish I had known going in. The amazing aspects as well as the ones that – well – suck (no pun intended). I feel that had I known better what to expect, I would have been better equipped to handle various challenges as they arose – and perhaps had been more successful with my first two babies.

It appears that 9 Things I Wish Someone Had Told Me About Breastfeeding has resonated with readers as well. To date, it has been one of my highest-performing posts, prompting more emails and reach-outs than I can count (which I love – we’re all in this together)! This tells me that I’m not alone in this experience, and that many new mothers have gone through the trial and error that I have while trying to navigate a new nursing relationship.

So, at six months postpartum, I thought it would be a good time to post an update about how my breastfeeding journey has evolved.

10 More Things I've Learned About Breastfeeding At 6 Months Postpartum

I AM PROUD!  

There. I said it. And I’m not ashamed! I have worked very hard to hit this milestone, and I’m delighted with the progress that my baby and I have made. I read this week that only 18% of mothers who start out breastfeeding are still nursing at 6 months, so I feel I’ve really achieved something (never mind that the statistic was on a Facebook meme – take it for what it’s worth, but it sounded great to me)!

My husband asked me yesterday how long I was going to continue breastfeeding. I answered that, at this point, as long as possible since the hard work is already done! Or at least the one year I had originally set my sights on. Which brings me to my next point.

It really DOES get easier.

Hear me when I say this – as I never believed anyone who said this until I experienced it for myself. It won’t always be as hard as it is in the beginning. Not even close.

Now, don’t get me wrong. It remains a big (huge) commitment. Every day breastfeeding is one of my biggest considerations as I time outings and events around feeds. As I struggle with various aspects that I will detail later on. BUT it is easier than it once was. It has become habit, second nature, and I have gotten used to it. It has simply become a part of my life.

It no longer hurts – as much.

In my first post, I talked a lot about the pain of nursing. Because the pain at that point was SIGNIFICANT. The “tender nipples” crap that I hear time and time again is complete B.S. – at least for me. For me, it was a searing, burning, excruciating pain. And yes, I felt this pain even though the latch was absolutely correct.

So I’m happy to report that the pain – at least to that level – started subsiding for me around 12 weeks. Granted, this is much longer than the 3-8 weeks I was originally led to believe, but the good news is that it DID subside. Now when the baby latches, I feel an initial prick/tingle and that is it.

Lest I lead you to believe that it has become completely pain-free, it has not. My little guy now has more of a say in things and will often bite (even without teeth, this hurts), tug, or my personal favorite – bite and tug on the nipple simultaneously to pull off. The good news is that if I’m paying attention, I can often tell when he’s in this sort of mood, or can read his cues to pull him off before he decides to do it himself. The bad news is if I’m watching TV or browsing Facebook on my phone, I will sometimes miss the cues and end up with a sore nipple.

Some babies hate covers.

I know that I can technically nurse pretty much wherever and whenever I want sans cover. It’s my right. That said, I still (shockingly) retain a shred of modesty since birthing three children, and I personally prefer using a cover.

My baby disagrees.

He hates the cover. Despises it. And refuses to eat (and instead cries and screams) when I place one on. I’ve tried everything – all different types of covers, putting them on in different ways so that he won’t notice, and even trying to cover him with other items like shirts, soft blankets, etc. Nothing works. He’s hip to the game and isn’t having any of it.

Which puts me in a dilemma. Since I’m shy to nurse publicly without cover, I have to find a private area or feed him a bottle. Neither is ideal. Finding a private area means leaving whatever I’m doing at the moment (often leaving people to wait for us), while feeding him a bottle leaves me still needing to express so essentially doubling the time of the feed.

I have yet to find a solution, so opt to switch between finding a private area or bottle feeding when in public. And it blows.

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Distractions are the bane of my existence.

Like I mentioned earlier, my little man has become much more engaged with the world, no longer content to simply sleep and feed. Which is great. Except when I’m nursing. EVERYTHING is a distraction. His brothers. The TV. The radio. The sound of the garbage truck driving by. And with every distraction, he pulls of, smiles, and turns towards it.

It can turn a 20-minute feed into an hour.

I’ve tried quiet rooms. That worked – until his brothers figured out that these were the perfect times to get into everything they shouldn’t. So no more quiet rooms for us.

So now we simply try to work with it. I admit that I turn on the TV for his brothers to minimize distractions, but they still occur. Fortunately, the baby does have his good times. He eats much better during the evening, less so throughout the day. So I try to maximize the evening feeds understanding that I have to take what I can get. And it seems to go in phases – around four months was really difficult as everything seemed to pull him away from the task at hand, while now at six months it seems to be improving.

Little hands are curious.

As much as outside sights and sounds distract my baby, his own hands do as well. He reaches for everything. Like my hair, which he grasps and yanks and will not let go of. Or my chin, which he scratches and scrapes with tiny baby fingernails. Or even my jaw, which he grips onto and tugs while feeding away.

It’s not comfortable for me and as much as I love my baby, I don’t love having to extract my pulled-out hair from clenched baby hands.

So I’ve learned to prevent it by keeping his hands busy during feeds. Offering him fingers or small toys to grasp onto. Wearing tug-resistant shirts that won’t untie or unravel when pulled. And tying my hair back into ponytails – lots and lots of ponytails – to keep it safe from curious hands.

I still pump.

And I still hate it. Fortunately, I will now go many days with only a single electric pumping session each morning after waking up engorged.

For other times throughout the day, if I’m out and about, I’ve discovered the wonder of the manual hand pump.

Hear me out. I, too, was appalled by the notion of manually pumping my own breasts. I held off until my third baby was 4.5 months old before finally purchasing one out of necessity (and to use up an expiring gift card) – because I didn’t want to lug my big double electric pump on an all-day outing.

And I freaking LOVE it!

I bought the Medela Harmony because my electric pump is also Medela (hooray for interchangeable bottles and parts)!  And I now carry it everywhere. It is awesome:

  • It’s SMALL. Which means I can discretely carry it in my purse for whenever I need it.
  • It is INCREDIBLY efficient. In fact, I pump more milk manually using the hand pump than I get via the electric pump. It’s probably because I am consciously controlling the speed and action versus simply vegging out on the couch – but to this day I am amazed at how much milk I get in a much faster session.
  • Fewer parts to clean. Just one bottle, one breast shield, and one membrane kit. Hallelujah!
  • Easy to clean on the go. I am in love with the Medela Quick Clean Wipes – no soap or water needed!
  • It is QUIET. I can do it without anyone hearing it – unlike my electric pump which often prompts questions on phone calls: “what is that whooshing noise in the background??”
  • Fewer supplies needed. No tubes, no hands-free pumping bra, no electrical outlet nor cords. Just the pump and my breast is all I need. And a cover to use it in public.

So, yes, I still pump BUT am enjoying much more flexibility in how I pump.

Babies don’t nurse as often as newborns.

This was a welcome revelation seeing as I spent close to entire days in bed nursing my newborn. Now he can go much longer without nursing, and the feeds are more efficient. We’ve gotten into a groove.

The best thing about this is now being able to schedule my day. I know roughly when the baby will need to eat, and can schedule departures/arrivals around those times. I know that when he eats, he will eat well (as long as he’s not overly distracted), and then be satiated for a longer period of time. And I know that since we both have a handle on what we’re doing, we can pop in a quick 10-minute feed if need be to hold him over. It’s gotten much easier all around.

Introducing solids reduces the reliance on breast milk alone.

Most 6-month-olds are on solids and I, too, started my baby on solids at the six month mark. It’s still new for us, but already I am noticing his breast milk needs beginning to level out with the introduction of solid food.

Which makes my nursing job a bit easier and less time-consuming as I begin to focus more on other forms of nutrition and sustenance. And bittersweet as I reflect on how his dependence on me will continue to lessen as time goes on.

It is a gift.

The gratification of nursing my baby has not changed since he was a newborn. I feel so grateful and satisfied to be continuing this journey with him as he matures. There are now thousands of moments catalogued deep into the recesses of my memory – of him falling asleep on the breast, cooing after a feed, smiling in gratitude, giggling, or simply looking up at me as he eats while grasping my finger.

Even at 2am, when I am exhausted and want to cry myself when he is again crying to eat, I can’t help but be thankful for those precious moments once he’s latched on, dozing, and content. They really are a gift.

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And this is why I’m in it for the long haul. The end is nearing, faster than I’d like, and I want to soak up these final moments before they’re gone. This special time shared by only my baby and I. Because sooner than I know it, this will be the time I miss.

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I Hated Pregnancy – But Now I Kinda Miss It

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I hate being pregnant.

And not just a little bit. This is a big hate. A loathe-every-minute and check-off-every-day type of hate. I detest it.

I Hated Pregnancy But Now I Kinda Miss It

You can’t really blame me. I have pretty awful pregnancies grounded in all-encompassing sickness. The kind of sickness that relegates you to bed for months on end. That leads to depression and apathy. That isolates you from your loved ones and everything you used to care about. The kind of sickness that forces your husband to take over every aspect of your life and the family’s just to keep things going.

I dare say he hates it almost as much as I do.

And yet I’ve done it three times, with my last pregnancy ending just weeks ago. I still can’t believe it. My husband and I toasted to the end of my final pregnancy. The end of the debilitating sickness. The end of my misery. Finally – the start of our lives as a complete family of five.

And I was relieved. And absolutely overjoyed with the three incredible fruits of my labors. Thrilled to be done being pregnant.

Except.

Somewhere, somehow, there is a glimmer of longing. A pinprick ache in my heart for the days of pregnancy.

Am I crazy?

I hated #pregnancy. A loathe-every-minute and check-off-every-day type of hate. I detest it. Share on X

The memories of illness are still fresh in my mind. I got sick yesterday watching a show that I watched while I was pregnant – the association is still that strong.

But there is more to it. More than the miserable physicality of it.

There’s the anticipation. The hours of wondering about this new life. What he will be like. How he will look. Who he will become.

The joy of watching his heartbeat flickering on an ultrasound screen. His little bean-shaped body floating behind the consistent blink blink blink of that busy heart. Grainy pictures that prove he is there even before any symptoms appear.

The fascination surrounding this miracle. This new human being who didn’t exist and now suddenly does. Who is growing independently while at the same time remaining completely dependent on me.

The deliciousness of the secret. A confidence that only my husband and I share as everyone else goes about their business, unknowing. The hushed discussions about when to reveal our news, making it official and real. Putting it out there for better or for worse. Making all of us vulnerable.

The wonder of new baby flutters. Questioning if they are kicks until soon enough there is no doubt that they are kicks and hits and rolls. A baby exploring inside, safe and warm. Knowing this is the only time I can keep him with me and guarantee his protection.

The hiccups. Revealing the baby’s humanity and normalness. Pondering what foods may have triggered the reaction. And counting each hiccup until they slow and ultimately stop.

The doctors. The appointments. The tests. The scans. All monitoring the fragile life that is maturing inside. Reassuring me that all is going well and that development is proceeding as expected. Making me feel triumphant, that I am doing things right, when really I have no control over any of it.

The joy of naming. The excitement of coming up with a lifelong moniker. Will he like it? Will it fit his personality? Is it the right one? Incorporating family names. Saying it over and over until it sounds like nonsense rolling off the tongue.

The fearful anticipation of delivery. Coming up with a perfect birth plan, full well knowing that I have no influence over the birth whatsoever. Compiling emergency numbers and recruiting trusted friends to help with child care. Packing maternity bags and touring hospitals.

The discomfort of false labor pains. Reminding me that the magic hour is coming soon, but not quite yet. That my body is warming up for the big day. Readying itself to help propel our miracle into the world.

That startling moment when I realize that it’s no longer a drill. That this is it. The trembling. The increasing waves of pain. The panic as I face the certainty that there is no turning back. The rush to the hospital and the teams of doctors and nurses attending to me and my fast-approaching baby. The combination of excitement, dread, agony, and anxiety as my limbs are stretched and monitors are beeping and doctors, nurses, husbands are drowned out by the screaming. My screaming. Knowing that I can’t handle it another second.

And then the euphoria. The screams replaced by the cries of a new person not ready for the commotion. The warmth of a perfect baby on my quivering belly. The first suckles. The tears. The never ending tears of joy streaming down my face as I caress a new baby head and cheek and arm and leg. For the first time. The frozen snapshot of a moment in time that will never be forgotten. That can’t be forgotten.

And this – all of this – is what I miss. I miss wondering who is about to join us. When he will join us. I miss the anticipation. The nervousness of meeting someone for the first time. The preparations. The knowledge that my body is creating a miracle. The sweet suspense of the wait.

And I realize that I’m sad we’re done. Possibly too sad. More sad than I would have thought.

But I know we’re done. Our family is complete. My countdown to the end of pregnancy is over. This last time was the final one.

I’m almost sure of it.


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What You Really Need For a New Baby + Free Printable

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What You Really Need For a New BabyDisclosure: This post contains affiliate links, earning me a small commission at no additional cost to you.  All opinions are 100% my own.

Are you or is someone close to you expecting a baby?  Feeling overwhelmed about what is really needed for the baby’s arrival?

So was I.

But now that I’ve had three babies join our family, I’ve become familiar with what is really needed versus what isn’t. I wish I had this list with number 1! But at least I was able to space out the purchases over time with my subsequent two.

Learn what you REALLY Need For a New Baby with a FREE Printable! #Baby #Pregnancy #Parenthood Share on X

Here are my recommendations and tips. To check out all my recommended products, access my Amazon Influencer page (all purchases there will earn me a small commission at no additional cost to you). At the end of this post, I’ve included a downloadable full-size list for you to print and go! 

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Baby Clothing

Although arguably the most fun items to purchase, not much clothing is needed for a new baby. Stick with the basics to start, and consider buying items sized 3-6 months so that your baby won’t grow out of them as quickly. Be sure to wash all clothes and blankets in sensitive detergent before using (I don’t personally use Dreft – I find that any sensitive detergent works just fine and is easier on the budget).

  • Onesies: My favorite clothing items for all three of my babies. Pants, shorts, shirts, and dresses are simply unnecessary (although adorable – and definitely justified on that alone). But onesies are inexpensive, easy to change, and available in designs that go with anything. Get a few sets – a couple short sleeve and a couple long sleeve – and you’re set. I like this basic set from Gerber.
  • Sleepers: Does it get any cuter than PJs for babies? These are great for day or night. Cute and warm, they provide easy access to diapers. I’m a fan of the ones that zip vs. snap to close (like these) – snaps aren’t always the easiest to navigate at 3am with a cranky baby.
  • Sleep Gowns: After our first baby, these were the only clothing items we brought to the hospital. Why? They’re comfortable and make diaper changing a breeze – no snaps or zippers to worry about. My favorites are the ones with the built-in mitts – these Gerber ones are a great buy. Truly a one piece clothing solution.
  • Wearable Blankets: Traditional blankets are a definite no-no for babies due to risk of suffocation. So what to do on a chilly night? Dress your baby in a safe wearable blankets. I love them and use them up until each child is about a year old. The Halo SleepSack wearable blankets are my favorite.
  • Swaddles: You’d think that after three kids I’d have swaddling down to a science. Nope. Somehow I just can’t get them tight enough to prevent flailing limbs. So I LOVE these SwaddleMe packs. They’re like swaddles for dummies – and they’re amazing! Just put the baby in, velcro him up, and voila – a perfectly swaddled infant!
  • Baby Caps: These are important to help the baby help retain warmth. I live in a warm climate so only need lightweight caps, but there are various types available. This 5-pack is a good start.
  • Baby Mittens: Believe it or not, babies’ nails are sharp! Since they can’t yet control their reflexes, they’re sensitive skin is subject to scratches. Protect them with baby mittens. I usually buy 2-3 packs to start, and then rotate them. An added benefit is that they keep people from trying to touch the baby’s hands (germs – yuck!) Tip: wash them in a pair of stockings or socks to avoid losing them in the washing machine.
  • Socks: Baby booties and shoes are cute, but completely unnecessary. Your baby won’t be standing for months. Several good pairs of baby socks will do them just fine. As with the mittens, wash them in a pair of nylons or an adult sock to avoid losing them.
  • Jacket: Depending on your climate, a hooded baby jacket is always a good idea.
  • Sunhat: A must-have, even if it is cold out. Baby’s skin and head are sensitive and need to be protected from the sun. I like this one from i play for its wide brim, chin tie, and UPF protection.
  • Bibs: You will use more of these than you can imagine. They’re necessary not only for feedings, but later for teething drool. Make sure you buy bibs that are waterproof to prevent soiled clothing. I like these from Green Sprouts for price and quality.
  • Burp Pads: Babies make messy burps! Spit up will stain not only their clothes, but yours as well. Put together a good supply of burping cloths. There are types to suit any budget, but I personally like the material and absorbency of the Green Sprouts brand.
  • Receiving Blankets: You can never have too many receiving blankets. These will serve every purpose imaginable: swaddle, temperature protection, stroller cover, shade, burp cloth, nursing cover, and even a makeshift changing pad in a pinch. Get a few sets – I like these from Luvable Friends.
  • Plush Blankets: While these should never be used to put baby to bed (suffocation risk), they are great for tummy time as well as protection in strollers or car seats. There are countless options available – I think this one is cute as it also includes a security blanket for the baby.

Baby Hygiene

  • Infant Nail Clipper: Like I said, those newborn nails are sharp! Trim them down with infant nail clippers. I like the ones with magnifying glasses to make it easier to avoid accidental nicks.
  • Baby Wash: Try to get one as natural as possible. I like Babyganics for its ingredients, tear-free formulation, and price.
  • Washcloths: You’ll need them for those early baths! I like these for their softness on sensitive new baby skin.
  • Towels: Sure, you could use a regular towel. But if inclined to splurge, these hooded towels are adorable and help keep baby warm as you dry her off.
  • Baby Lotion: Baby’s skin is very sensitive and requires a lot of moisturizing. My favorite is Aveeno Baby Daily Moisture for its natural formulation and easy application.
  • Petroleum Jelly: Useful for healing circumcisions and diaper rash. I like Aquaphor.
  • Band Aids: Starting with babies, you will need a supply of these indefinitely. Many cute designs are available, but simple works just as well.
  • Diapers: Make sure you buy both Newborn and Size 1 as babies grow quickly. I’ve tried pretty much every brand, and my favorites are Pampers and Huggies. For one of my babies Pampers leaked less and for the other it was Huggies. So try out a few brands to see what works best for yours.
  • Baby Wipes: The best baby wipes, hands down, are the up & up brand from Target. Suitable for sensitive skin, well priced, and absorbent enough to handle tough messes. A hint on baby wipes: you don’t need to use them just for diaper changes. They’re great for cleaning sticky hands, faces, spills, and other messes of all kinds. I have the sneaking suspicion that I will forever keep wipes stocked in my house, long after my kids are grown.
  • Diaper Pail: I’ve tried three major brands, and my favorite is the good old Diaper Genie. You can operate it one-handed (important when you’re trying to hold a crying baby in one hand and a dirty diaper in the other), its refills are readily available, and the price is right. Tip: Target sells up & up brand refill liners that fit and are even cheaper.
  • Infant Tub: It is possible to bathe your baby in the sink, but it’s challenging. The baby is slippery and must be held, which means someone else needs to help with the bath. If you want to be able to bathe the baby on your own, check out the Puj tub. It folds into the sink and allows the baby to rest safely and comfortably so your hands remain free for washing. Once you’re done, simply hang it up to dry it out (or throw it in the bathtub like we do). Easy-peasy.
  • Baby Tooth Brush: I know, your baby doesn’t even have teeth yet! But their gums still need cleaning. Also, the massaging feels good and gets your baby into the habit of brushing teeth early. I love the Nuby Oral Massager and Toothbrush – it’s BPA free and you wear it over your finger to massage and clean your baby’s gums.
  • Baby Comb: If your baby is anything like mine, he’ll be born with a lot of hair. And that hair requires brushing. A soft baby brush is great for the downy fluff they’re born with, followed by a comb for the thicker hair that comes in later. This Summer Infant set includes both.
  • Hand Sanitizer (for adults): I wouldn’t recommend using this on the baby, but keep it around the house and in baby bags for you or others handling the baby. We’ve got industrial sized bottles all over the house that have lasted us ages.

Baby Feeding

  • Baby Bottles: You will need these whether or not you’re breastfeeding. I’ve tried MANY different kinds, and my favorite are the Tommee Tippee Closer to Nature Bottles. These are great for breastfeeding moms because the nipples mimic mom’s nipples, allowing the baby to switch easily between breast and bottle (I’ve never had my baby experience any nipple confusion). Plus they’re easy to clean without too many parts. If your baby has colic, I recommend Dr. Brown’s Bottles as they help limit the amount of air that passes through. The only consideration with these is that they do have many small pieces to clean.
  • Bottle/Pump Part Sterilizer: Unless you want to spend an inordinate amount of time cleaning and sterilizing bottles and breast pump parts after each use, I highly recommend purchasing a sterilizer that can go in the microwave. Don’t forget that you will also have to sterilize all bottles, pump parts, and pacifiers even before their first use. My favorite is the Dr. Brown’s Microwave Steam Sterilizer (it works with any bottle brand you choose). Simply put in your bottles and pump parts, add water, and nuke it for 6 minutes. Mine continues to last even several years after purchase.
  • Bottle Cleaners: I like the Dr. Brown’s Bottle Brush because it is more flexible and easier to use than some of its competitors. Buy a few.
  • Drying Rack: Once you clean your bottles and pump parts, you need a place to dry them. I love this Munchkin rack because it’s inexpensive and works.
  • Breast Pump: Whether or not you breastfeed, you will still need a breast pump (this was news to me – check out my posts  on the 9 Things I Wish Someone Had Told Me About Breastfeeding and 10 More Things I’ve Learned About Breastfeeding at 6 Months Postpartum to learn more). Before ever purchasing a pump on your own, call your insurance company as they should provide one free of charge. Granted, it will be a bare bones model, but it will work just fine. If for some reason you do need to purchase a pump out of pocket, I recommend the Medela Pump In Style Advanced. It worked the best for me of all models tried, and is the easiest to purchase replacement parts for. Be sure you also buy a carrier, flanges, tubing, bottles, and ice packs to complete your set – or make it easy on yourself and just purchase a full set off the bat. Tip: buy two sets of flanges, bottles, and bottle attachments. When one’s being cleaned you can use the other.
  • Breast Pump Bra: One of the advantages of using a breast pump bra is the ability to multi-task while you pump. And when you’re pumping multiple times a day for 20+ minutes at a time, that’s a big deal! I like the Medela bra, but make sure you pay close attention to sizing when ordering. I usually have to order one size up.
  • Breast Milk Storage Bags: Chances are you will build up enough of a milk supply to start freezing the excess. Buy some breast milk bags now to make storage easy.
  • Nipple Cream: During the first several weeks of breastfeeding, it might hurt. For some (like me), it hurts a LOT – see my post covering this topic. Nipple cream helps heal sore and cracked nipples. Everyone recommends lanolin but be aware that some people (like myself) are allergic to lanolin. It’s made of sheep’s wool so if you are allergic to wool, chances are you will be allergic to lanolin as well. Another thing I don’t like about lanolin is its stiff consistency, making it harder to spread. I LOVE Earth Mama Angel Baby Nipple Butter. It is smooth, glides easily, and is non GMO. Tip: you can alternatively use plain olive oil on your nipples – it also spreads easily and has documented healing properties.
  • Nipple Shells: When your nipples are extremely sore to the touch those first few weeks, air is the best way to heal them. But it’s not always practical to go topless. That’s why I love Medela’s SoftShells. They were lifesavers in the beginning as they protected my nipples while allowing air to reach and help heal them. They are also discreet – completely hidden under a bra and shirt.
  • Nipple Shields: Sometimes the pain of breastfeeding reaches an unbearable point during the first few weeks. Or maybe your nipples are inverted, making it difficult for the baby to latch. If you’re on the verge of giving up, nipple shields can save your breastfeeding journey. They are thin shields that you apply directly over your nipple. The baby latches onto them, saving you a lot of pain or helping with physiological issues. I love the Medela Nipple Shield and largely credit it with saving my nursing journey (and no, I did not experience any issues weaning my baby off the shields later).
  • Nursing Bras: Purchase some that fit your style and budget. There are an abundance of options available.
  • Nursing Cover: Again, there are many types and styles to fit your budget. I don’t need anything fancy, and am perfectly happy with this one for its price. I do recommend purchasing a style with a stiff neck so that you can look down at your baby and help her latch.
  • Nursing Pads: Ah, milk leaks. Protect your clothing by buying some pads. There are disposable and non-disposable options available, but I prefer the latter as my skin is sensitive and they are less irritating. I like these and they include a bag for washing.
  • Nursing Pillow: I had always used a Boppy in the past and been perfectly happy. It is great for positioning the baby, sitting on while healing from childbirth, and tummy time. But this time around, a friend turned me onto My Brest Friend and I LOVE it! While not as versatile for other uses, it is perfect for breastfeeding. It allows me to position the baby correctly (even has bumps to elevate his head) and straps around my waist to hold it in place. You can even walk around with it. This is easily one of the best purchases I made.
  • High Chair: You don’t necessarily need this Day 1, but we usually buy it pretty early on so that the baby can join us for family meal times. I like the space saver styles that attach to your dining room chairs, and have always used and loved the Fisher Price brand. We are already using it now with our 8 week old.

Baby Sleeping

  • Bassinet: There are more bassinet options on the market than you can imagine. The problem is babies grow out of them rather quickly, so it’s probably best not to spend too much money on one. Personally, I use a Graco Pack ‘N Play instead. It includes a portable napper, changer, and adjustable sleep space that grows with the baby. You can take it when you travel, and it folds up quickly and easily. The best part is that you will use it for long after your baby grows out of a traditional bassinet.
  • Crib: Call me cheap, but I don’t want to spend a ton of money on a crib. As long as it meets or exceeds all safety standards, I’m good. I ended up getting this one because it was low cost and could grow with the baby.
  • Baby Mattress: There are a ton of options available, but make sure you go with something that is firm and meets safety standards. I purchased this mattress when my preschooler was a baby and he still sleeps on it.
  • Mattress Cover: Spoiler alert: there WILL be diaper blowouts. Make sure you’re prepared with a waterproof mattress cover. I like this one from American Baby.
  • Fitted Sheet: You don’t need a full bedding set, as anything other than a fitted bottom sheep is a potential suffocation hazard. I like this two pack from Ziggy Baby. Tip: Lay down one fitted sheet, cover it with doggie pads, and then lay ANOTHER fitted sheet on top of that. This will make for easy clean-up in the night when you don’t want to have to strip the bed completely. Simply throw the top sheet in the wash and dispose of the doggie pads.
  • Breathing Monitor: This Snuza Hero Baby Monitor is the best $100-something I spent. You clip it onto the baby’s diaper, and it will alarm if the baby stops breathing. Check out my detailed review in my post 7 Most Useful Gifts For a First Time Mom. This little device has lasted through three children, and we still use it today. Without it, I would probably never sleep for fear of baby not breathing.
  • Baby Monitor: I’ve always used a baby monitor and have been glad I have. There are many options available, but I recommend one with video and the ability to remotely control the camera so you can get different views around the room. Instead of a traditional monitor, you may also consider an app that makes your phone or tablet a monitor that can be used anywhere. This is especially useful when you will be leaving the baby with a babysitter.
  • Head Support Pillow: Have you heard of baby flat head syndrome? It’s a thing – especially now that we put babies to sleep on their backs to prevent SIDS. I love this Boppy Noggin Nest Head Support pillow to help prevent flat spots. It slightly raises the baby’s head so it isn’t lying directly on a hard surface. I use it everywhere – in the crib, in the car seats, on the changing table. Check out my detailed review in my post 7 Most Useful Gifts For a First Time Mom.
  • Sound Machine: Your baby is accustomed to a lot of noise in the womb, and may find it difficult to adjust to silence. This is why a crying baby immediately calms when a hair dryer or vacuum cleaner is turned on. I like this sound machine in a stuffed sheep. It’s adorable and offers various sound clips to help calm a fussy baby (my kids have always preferred the whale sound option).

Baby Health

  • Baby Thermometer: There are many options available, but make sure you use a rectal thermometer for the most accurate readings. I like this one from ErgaLogik.
  • Baby Probiotics: I’ve successfully used probiotics with all three of my babies to help with gut health and gas. After an inordinate amount of research on various strains, my favorite formulation is Nature’s Way Primadophilus for Children. It includes all the strains I was looking for along with FOS. I recommend purchasing it at Sprouts instead of online as it needs to remain refrigerated. Then sprinkle it in your baby’s bottle or on a pacifier.
  • Baby Vitamin D: Breastfeed babies may lack in vitamin D if not exposed to enough sunlight. Because we spend a lot of time indoors with our babies, I choose to supplement with these drops to ensure they’re getting enough. Talk to your doctor about appropriate dosage.
  • Teething Relief: I’ve tried several products on the market to help my children with the pain of teething, and there is only one I would recommend: Camilia Teething Relief. It is colorless, odorless, and my babies don’t mind the taste. More importantly, it doesn’t contain any of the potentially toxic benzocaine used in other teething products. Read my detailed review here.
  • Diaper Rash Cream: Everybody’s heard of Desitin, and I recommend it as well. Tip: if it should happen to get onto clothing or in hair (it’s happened to me when my kids decided to “paint” with it), the only thing that will get it out is Dawn dish detergent.
  • Humidifier: Many options are available, but make sure you buy a cool mist device. I like this one from Crane – we just used it last night!
  • Nasal Aspirator: It’s heartbreaking when your baby catches her first cold, because she can’t expel her mucous and congestion. The bulb aspirators don’t do much to help. The absolute best product on the market for this purpose is the Nosefrida. It allows you to literally suck out the boogers – sounds gross, but there are filters so you don’t ingest them. It works incredibly well and you will be amazed at how much gunk it can suck out – and how much happier your baby will be afterwards. I discuss the product in more detail in my post 7 Most Useful Gifts For a First Time Mom.
  • Nasal Saline Drops: To make it even easier to break up and then extract the mucous, use these saline drops from Little Remedies before suctioning.
  • Baby Medical Book/App: Always good to have on hand. There are many medical books available and several that I have and love – this one is a good starter. It’s also a good idea to download a few pediatric first aid and CPR apps – I like First Aid, CPR Choking, and CPR Baby. I also love the new Heal app that will send a doctor to you for a flat $99 fee (if not covered by insurance). No more long treks to the urgent care center or hospital with a cranky baby!
  • Infant CPR Training: Beyond simply a book or app, I strongly recommend getting yourself and anyone else who will be spending a lot of time with the baby pediatric CPR certified. Check out your local hospitals or the Red Cross for classes near your home.

Baby Travel and Leisure

  • Infant Car Seat: This may be one of the most important purchases you make for your baby. Make sure you do your research to select the best fit for you. I’ve done a ton of research for myself, and ultimately decided on two models for different age ranges. The Chicco Keyfit 30 for an infant followed by the Diono Rainier once the infant carrier is outgrown. You could actually use the Diono from Day 1, but I personally like the convenience of being able to put a sleeping baby in and out of the car without having to wake him. I think both of these are solid and safe choices – I particularly love the Diono with its steel frame. Another convertible car seat I’ve tried that I also like is the Britax Advocate. Like the Diono, it is at the top of the list for safety. But I switched from it because it has a wider profile so is not conducive to three children in a backseat.
  • Infant Stroller Frame: If, like me, you also opt for an infant carrier in the beginning then you should also purchase a stroller frame. This allows the infant carrier to easily snap in and out for walks. So you can strap the baby in the car seat once, drive her in the car, take her out of the car and place her in the stroller, and then back in the car – all without waking her. Since I have the Chicco Keyfit 30 I purchased the Chicco Keyfit Stroller Frame. I love it for its handling, ease of use, and HUGE basket (I can fit bags and our little dog inside). Most major car seat manufacturers make their own stroller frames, so simply pick up the one that is a match for you.
  • Infant Carrier: I have tried everything from the wraps to many many carriers. My favorite by far is the Ergobaby Original. I find it to be the easiest to use, the most comfortable on my back, the most ergonomically correct for the baby, and something I can wear for hours without tiring. I also purchase the infant insert so that I can start using it with my babies from birth. There is a newer model out that allows the baby to face in or out, but I don’t find it quite as comfortable, and my baby seems to also prefer the original.
  • Car Seat Cover: Definitely get one of these to protect your baby from curious dirty hands, as well as to shield her from lights that may keep her up. I always buy one from Car Seat Canopy after searching online for a coupon – you can find coupons that will make the canopy free (and you only pay shipping). I don’t think the whole set is necessary, but definitely get the cover.
  • Rear Facing Baby Seat Mirror: Since your baby will be rear-facing in the car, you will want a mirror to be able to see him while you drive. Don’t waste your money on anything fancy – a simple mirror will do. I use this one from Brica.
  • Stroller Hooks: One of the greatest benefits of having a stroller is having the ability to carry so much STUFF – groceries, handbags, baby bags, etc. Maximize your carrying power with these handy-dandy stroller hooks. They clip onto your stroller handle and last forever (I’ve been using mine with no wear for over four years now).
  • Activity Gym: These are great for tummy time and for visual stimulation for your baby. There are many types available, so look around for something that appeals to you. We have several, and the Fisher Price Rainforest version is my babies’s favorite.
  • Boppy Pillow: Contrary to popular belief, the Boppy is not just for nursing (and in fact, I don’t even use mine for that most of the time)! It is truly a jack of all trades, and I use it for tummy time (babies prefer to be propped) and baby cradling, among a host of other things. When I first came home from the hospital I would even sit on it as I healed. I love my Boppy pillows and have several all over the house.
  • Rocker Baby Chair: After months of constant movement in your belly, it’s hard for a new baby to adjust to the stillness of being out of the womb. Cue the constant fussing. Rocker chairs have worked WONDERS for me – not only to set the baby down quickly if I need both hands free, but also to calm the baby with the quiet vibrations. I like this one from Fisher Price.
  • Baby Swing: For the same reason as stated above, babies also love swings. I don’t know that both a rocker and swing are necessary – perhaps pick and purchase just one of them. If going with the swing, this one is a great choice.
  • Diaper Bag: I know that many moms see this as one of their top purchases, searching for the best designer, but I purchased one hoity-toity diaper bag and then quickly decided it wasn’t practical. My favorite diaper bags are simple, relatively inexpensive, have a lot of space for lots of items, and make baby wipes easily accessible. I love this one from Eddie Bauer. My husband prefers a backpack, so carries this one from Jeep. If I could do it over, I would just get one or the other.
  • Pacifiers: Ah, the baby mute button! We didn’t use them with our first two children, but they have been a lifesaver with our fussy third. Make sure you get an orthodontic version to promote healthy oral development. My favorite are these from Nuk. Make sure you also get a pack of clips to prevent them from falling on the floor All. The. Time.
  • Changing Pad: Sometimes you don’t need an entire diaper bag and only a changing pad set will do. Smaller and easier to pack, I’ve used these for diaper changes in the trunk and public restrooms alike. I like this one that includes an elevated pillow and everything I need all in one set.
  • Teething Toys: Teething will start before you can blink, so it’s best to be prepared early. Every baby loves Sophie the Giraffe, but there are many other options available as well. I love the ones that can be chilled in the freezer or fridge for even greater teething relief.
  • Memory Book: I know that everything is captured online nowadays, but there is something nostalgic about maintaining a traditional baby book as well. I like this one from Carter’s and also this one from Pearhead.
  • Baby Tips Book: I’ve had every baby book imaginable, but there is only one that I purchased for all three of my pregnancies: Baby 411. It answers questions succinctly and in a clear readable format. I highly recommend adding it to your collection.

Items for Mom

Don’t forget to take care of Mom! The biggest must-have item is help. Make sure you assemble a team of relatives or friends to help you in the early days with a new baby. Everything counts: meal help, babysitting help for older children, cleaning help, etc.

  • Numbing Spray: After a vaginal delivery, Dermoplast will help with pain relief as you heal.
  • Hemmorhoid Treatment: Be prepared with something to treat another unpleasant after effect of delivery.
  • Pajamas: Stock up on comfy pajamas for the early days post-delivery. You will likely be spending long days in them as you adjust to life with a newborn.
  • Sweats/Yoga Pants: For the same reason as above, also make sure you have a supply of sweats and yoga pants to wear. Try going up a couple of sizes until your body is back to normal.
  • Sanitary Pads: Make sure to get the extra heavy overnight winged super-duper protective ones as you will bleed more than you can anticipate.
  • Prenatal Vitamins: I don’t know about you, but I am not a fan of the large prescribed prenatal vitamins that always made me gag in early pregnancy. So as soon as pregnancy is over, I switch to gummy prenatals with DHA and folic acid to ensure that my milk quality remains up to par.
  • Fenugreek (if nursing): Touted by many to help increase milk supply, it may be prudent to have a bottle on hand in case you run into any issues.
  • Milk Thistle (if nursing): Also said to help with milk supply issues, it may be helpful to purchase a bottle. Talk to your doctor or lactation consultant first about appropriate dosage.
  • Freezer Meals: With all your pre-labor nesting energy, why not meal plan for after the birth? There are several ebooks and paperback books to help, or you can simply do a search on Pinterest.
  • Dry Shampoo: What did new moms do before the invention of dry shampoo?? Without it I would be ashamed to ever leave the house.
  • Book/Movie/TV Show Downloads: You will have a lot of downtime with a new baby while the baby feeds. Instead of Googling (which will make you insane), use that time to catch up on your favorite books, shows, or movies. Download what you’re interested in before the big day, and you can also take advantage of it during early labor.
  • Camera and Charged Battery: Make sure you have a camera and fully charged battery ready for delivery and the days beyond. The moments fly by so quickly and are so hectic that you’ll want the ability to capture them readily and easily.
  • Baby Photography Appointment: With my most recent baby I forgot to do this before the birth and regretted it. It meant that I wasn’t able to get an appointment until the baby was older than I would have liked. Don’t make the same mistake – contact an infant photographer before you deliver so that you will have priority scheduling once the baby is born.

Items for Siblings

If your new baby-to-be will have siblings, there are certain things that you can prepare prior to delivery to make your life easier afterwards.

  • Gifts From Baby: I think it’s a nice and memorable gesture for the new baby to give each sibling a small gift. Think things like a baby doll, a big brother or sister book, etc.  My preschooler still talks about the gift that his brother gave him when he was born (a baby doll so that he could have his own baby to take care of).  This time around I purchased them both some coloring books and big brother books:You Were the First for my eldest, and I’m a Big Brother! for my youngest. It helps ease the transition and jealousy a tad.  So bring the wrapped gifts with you.
  • Scheduled Activities: When life is hectic immediately following the birth of a new baby, it helps to have other children involved in outside scheduled activities – whether that be play dates, classes, or outings. It also helps keep them in a routine which will assist with the transition. Try to schedule as many of these in advance as possible (as well as transportation to and from said activities that doesn’t involve you having to do it with the baby).
  • Craft Supplies & Coloring Books: Since having kids, the Dollar Tree has become one of my favorite stores. I am constantly stopping here for craft supplies for various at-home projects. Coloring books, crayons, paper plates, construction paper, paint, makers, and anything else you can think of help keep little hands and minds occupied.
  • Movies: In addition to downloading some media for yourself, download a couple of new movies for the kids for when you need a couple hours of downtime (or simply some peace and quiet to feed the baby).
  • Sandwich Ingredients & Packaged Snacks: Make lunchtimes as easy as possible by having PB&J, turkey, tuna, and other sandwich ingredients ready. Add to that granola bars, fruit bars, and other packaged snacks and VOILA – lunch time is done.
  • Babysitter/Mother’s Helper: Pre-schedule time with a babysitter or mother’s helper before the baby arrives. This will be one less thing to do once the baby has been born to help with the other children and allow you to focus on your new little one.

Other Items

  • Baby Announcements: I know, I know, most people use Shutterfly or a similar service to do this AND you need the baby to be here to have pictures available. But you can prepare by selecting your format and pricing, completing the verbiage, and saving it so that you simply have to upload pictures once you have them.
  • Baby Credit Monitoring: Identity thieves unfortunately target children and babies in an attempt to have free reign at their credit for years before someone notices. Keep this from happening to your children. Most credit monitoring services will allow you to add monitoring for children for a small surcharge. I use Identity Guard and add child monitoring for an additional $4.99/month.
  • Passport (if necessary): We like to travel and have family outside of the country so it is necessary to obtain our childrens’ passports as soon as possible. First you will need a CERTIFIED (different than informational) copy of your child’s birth certificate, typically available around 8 weeks after birth depending on state. Then you will need to review the instructions and complete the passport application on the U.S. Department of State’s website. With this, you will need photos – I find it easiest to take your own with the baby laying on a white background, and then using a free online service like ID Photo 4 You to reformat and size them to the required specifications. Finally, you will submit your entire package to a local authorized passport processing facility, pay the required fees, and then wait about 6 weeks for your child’s passport (this can be expedited for an additional fee).
  • Handprint Keepsake Kit: I love hanging these around the house to celebrate the birth of each child. My favorite kit is from Pearhead, and includes space for a baby picture, a hand print, and a foot print.
  • Lactation Consultant: Unfortunately for me, I waited until I began experiencing breastfeeding challenges with each child before seeking the services of a Lactation Consultant. By that point I was frustrated, exhausted, and ready to give up. I wish I had sought out Lactation Consultant services and groups before I needed them so that I would know who to call if the need arose. To find good referrals, talk to other moms in your area. Tap doctors and doulas. Consider contacting your local chapter of La Leche League. Consider if you prefer a classroom setting or 1:1 assistance, and also contact your insurance company as many are now covering certain expenses (mine covers the first six visits with an in-network consultant). Doing all this before you need to will save you hours of time when you are already upset and frustrated.
  • Baby Apps: Load up your phone with baby apps now. My favorite is Baby Connect for tracking and trending patterns related to your baby’s feeding, wetting, weight, and a plethora of other habits. There are also apps specifically for breastfeeding, pumping, health, stories, and anything else you can think of. Research and load them up now while you have more time.

So there you have it – my complete list of items needed for a new baby. Feel free to add and delete to fit your specific needs, but this is a list that has worked well for me.

Download, print, and save your free copy of everything needed for a new baby here: New Baby Must Haves. Or simply click on the image below.

Or, to check out all my recommended products, access my Amazon Influencer page (all purchases there will earn me a small commission at no additional cost to you).

And now that you know what you’ll need to prepare for your new baby, are you interested in finding out what to pack in your hospital maternity bag? Check out my post What to Pack in Your Maternity Hospital Bag + Free Printable to learn more!

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My Third Birth Story – Or, Why You Should Get an Epidural

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My Third Birth Story - Or Why You Should Get an Epidural

Third time should be the charm, right? Third baby, third delivery, third time at the rodeo. We should be seasoned pros – ready to DO THIS.

And yet, more than a month since I’ve delivered my third child, I’m just now able to talk about the trauma that was my third delivery.

But let’s back up. How about my first two deliveries? They were night and day.

I labored over 24 hours with my first, and pushed for 3.5 hours (yes – a full three and a half hours of pushing). Fortunately, I had pain relief in the form of an epidural… And I swear I heard angels singing once it was administered. The doctors finally gave up on a vaginal delivery and began making calls to schedule a c-section when the baby nudged downward for the first time.

Once he finally appeared, my doctor said, AH, he’s sunny side up – so THIS is why it’s been so difficult. Healing was slow and difficult, and I never imagined I would have more children.

So say we all.

Number two was much faster. I labored for a day at home, and then we rushed to the hospital as the pains became too intense. I was 8 cm dilated upon arrival and begged for an epidural. The nurses fought me: you’re too far along, it won’t work, your blood pressure is too low. But I insisted and forced them to call my doctor who promptly authorized the epidural.

Alas, they were right.

Outside of maybe taking a tiny bit of the edge off, the epidural didn’t kick in until I was being stitched up AFTER the baby had already been delivered. My doctor walked in, took one look at me, and said to the anesthesiologist, um – doesn’t look like your epidural is working. The baby was born within 45 minutes of arrival to the hospital.

This time we were going to be prepared. I was going to get that epidural, dammit! We would arrive at the hospital in plenty of time to take full advantage of pain relief and enjoy a comfortable, albeit medicated, birth experience.

A friend offered her sister’s services as a doula for the delivery. I declined, insisting that I didn’t think I could ever have a fully natural birth. That I simply didn’t think I was one of those women who could “breathe into the pain.”

My birth plan has pretty much always been to receive an epidural as soon as possible.

Which brings me to baby number three.

This time we knew exactly what to expect. My doctor wrote a note to administer pain relief medication as part of our admissions paperwork without me even asking. She warned me that the third baby would come quickly, and that we should head to the hospital as soon as contractions were close together. I agreed and assured her that we would arrive in plenty of time this time. We weren’t taking any chances.

The week before the baby was due, I was still at only 1 cm dilated “but soft.” Baby was in the right position and my doctor said it looked like we could potentially have a baby by the weekend.

She performed a sweep to try to move things along. At my ripe old “advanced maternal age”, doctors don’t like me going beyond my due date. Ladies – the sweep was intense. Painful. Not fun. And it didn’t work.

The following Monday I returned to her office. The nurses expressed surprise that I was still pregnant. I’m surprised too, I told them. I was as big as a house and could barely move outside of an awkward waddle. My husband had to put on my shoes for me.

Now I was 2 cm dilated. Even softer, my doctor said. Baby looked ready to go. This time she performed a surprise sweep. Ouch. But this time it worked.

Came home and spent the rest of the day working and writing. I suppose this is my form of nesting. Long after everyone else had gone to bed, I was still glued to the laptop. Finally around 12:30am, I figured I better get some sleep before the kids would be up in a few hours.

I got to bed around 1am, and started feeling very mild contractions. So mild, in fact, that they were no different than the contractions I had already been experiencing for the past two weeks. I was annoyed as I knew I needed to get some sleep. As it was, I was only sleeping around four hours a night during late pregnancy.

Around 1:30am, my husband woke up and saw me sitting up. He asked if it was time. I responded with a hormonal, how the heck would I know!? I will let you know when it is “time”. He wisely put a lid on it and sat up with me, looking increasingly anxious.

At 1:45am, he asked if we should call the friend who would be watching our other children. She would have about a 45 minute drive and we had all agreed that we would call well in advance so that we could arrive at the hospital early in the process. I told him NO, and reminded him that the hospital would send us home if these weren’t real contractions.

By 2:30am, my husband looked completely stressed out as he began throwing his overnight bag together. He pleaded again to call our friend. I breathed through a contraction and told him, FINE! Call her, but tell her she has plenty of time – I don’t want to stress her out. He was on the phone with her before I could even finish my sentence.

I was beyond annoyed at having my sleep disturbed so of course turned on the laptop, figuring at least I could finish the project I had been working on before bed. The contractions remained manageable.

Suddenly during a contraction I felt a POP inside. As if a water balloon had just popped. I told my husband that my water may or may not have broken, and to get a towel just in case. He checked the time and clocked it at 3:17am.  Sure enough, the falls of Niagara came gushing out as I stood up and we rushed to the tub to clean up the mess. Thankfully, I had learned through previous births to have adult diapers ready for these occasions so I put one on, bunched up under my maternity skinny jeans. Sexy indeed.

And then all hell broke loose.

My mild contractions instantly became fast and furious. I screamed at my husband to find out how much longer it would be before our friend arrived. He called her, panicked, and let me know that she was still 20 minutes away. The kids woke up and we comforted them back to sleep. Well, my husband comforted them as I panted and clenched the bathroom counter in pain.

We made it to the car. Hubby called the hospital and asked them to PLEASE call our doctor to meet us there. He reiterated that this wasn’t our first time at the rodeo and that this baby was coming.

The nurse said, we will assess your wife once you arrive. Clinically.

As I was groaning through a particularly bad contraction, our friend pulled into the driveway and we quickly pulled out. The contractions were now less than 2 minutes apart.

Our conversation in the car went something like this:

Me: STOP RUNNING [frantic breath, frantic breath, frantic breath] RED LIGHTS!

Husband: It’s fine! Nobody’s on the road.

Me: [Doing my best to sound as threatening as I could in between contractions] Stop it now! Stop at the [frantic breath, frantic breath, frantic breath] lights! I don’t want to get [frantic breath, frantic breath] pulled over! I am getting [hoo, hoo, hoo, hoo, expletive] PISSED!

Husband: We need to get there! I can’t deliver this baby!

Me: [Multiple expletives] ANOTHER contraction already!?!?  I can’t DO THIS!  They’re not going to [frantic breath, groan, frantic breath] GIVE ME AN EPIDURAL! I feel the head!  

Husband: Yes they will! Don’t worry – they will!

Me: NO THEY WON’T! AHHH, another [multiple expletive] contraction!!!!  I need to push! I CAN’T [multiple expletive] DO THIS!  They’re not going to [hoo, hoo, hoo, frantic breath, groan] give me the EPIDURALLLL!!!  I have to have the epidural!!

Basically on repeat. For the entire drive.

At 4:06am we pulled into the hospital parking lot and made a beeline for valet parking.

Valet parking was closed.

My husband started to drive up the parking structure until I stopped him, shouting that there was no way I was going to make it to the top. This baby is coming NOW!!

He parked illegally – I don’t even remember where – and told me to hang tight.  He ran off and returned a few minutes later with a wheelchair.  Carried me into the chair because by this point I could barely move through the pain – and then started running into the hospital.

Slow down over the bumps!!

We finally got up to the Labor and Delivery floor and, whaddya know, there was a line. A group of people, men and women, gathered around. I was now literally shrieking in pain during contractions and had become a circus attraction for this group of strangers. The men looked at me in a combination of horror and disgust.

The receptionist finished her conversation with one of the women as if she didn’t notice we were there. My husband said, we are having a baby NOW. She replied, I need you to fill out some forms first, then walked leisurely to the printer to pick them up.

Hubby was now getting angry, informing her that we had already pre-registered and that the baby was coming NOW. He threw the pre-completed paperwork on the counter. She didn’t look convinced, and I could swear she rolled her eyes.

I screeched at my husband to at least move me out of the center of this group of strangers watching me writhing in agony. He faced the wheelchair towards a wall.

Finally the door to the ward opened and hubby rushed us over to the nurse’s station. The head nurse glanced over and then continued her personal conversation with another nurse. My husband cut her off.

We are having a baby RIGHT NOW! This is our THIRD.

She looked irritated and then typed something on her computer. I continued to howl during contractions. She spoke up (to whom, I don’t know) and said, take them to Room 6.

Hubby started rushing us over there and then she called out – actually, put them in Room 3 instead.

I couldn’t take it anymore and cried out, you’ve got to be KIDDING me – what the [expletive] is the problem??  This baby is about to be born RIGHT NOW!!! Do you guys NOT GET IT??

We finally ended up in a room and a nurse asked me to put on a gown. There was no way I could even lift myself out of the wheelchair, never mind put on a hospital gown. I think it was around this point that they started to realize maybe, just maybe, the baby really WAS coming.

More nurses (or doctors? or witnesses? spectators??) started piling into the room. Hubby peeled off my jeans as someone simultaneously performed a cervical check. My nether regions had become fair game for all.

The cervical checker looked surprised. Wow, she wasn’t kidding. She’s almost 10 cm. The head is literally right there.

In my head I silently roared, I TOLD YOU!!!

Suddenly everyone kicked into gear. I suppose better late than never. More people filed in (who ARE all these people anyway??) and someone started blabbing on about an on-call OB rushing over. Someone else was going on about me not having a hospital band, an IV, or monitors hooked up. Another person asked, does anyone know the patient’s name?

I couldn’t have cared less about any of that.

My husband spoke up about me wanting an epidural. Sheepishly. He knew by this point there was no way in hell I was getting an epidural. But admitted later that he didn’t want to deal with my wrath for not at least asking.

Someone chuckled. I was told that no epidural would be forthcoming. Then someone dared to speak the dreaded words:

You’re going to have to do this naturally.

I screamed, I HAVE TO PUSH!!

Someone – a brunette – looked at me and said, OK, let’s push. (For the record, there is no “let us” in “let’s push.” Nobody is doing the pushing except me and me alone).

I grabbed onto my husband’s arm and cried, I CAN’T DO IT!  I NEED AN EPIDURAL!  I CAN’T DO IT!!!! The fear in his eyes was palpable. I don’t know if it was fear for me or OF me at that point.

Someone else – a blonde who had suddenly appeared at the foot of the bed – said firmly, you’re doing it. 

By this point, I was bellowing like a crazed animal. My husband looked around at the doctors and nurses as if to ask, is this NORMAL?? He later told me he had never heard such sounds emerge from anyone’s throat… And doubted he ever would again.

My insides were being cut out with rusty steak knives and nobody was helping me. My eyes burned from the sweat pouring down my face. I was horrified as the reality of what I would have to do sunk in.

Someone encouraged me to stop screaming and to instead use my energy for pushing.

I ignored them and screamed my lungs out. I couldn’t have stopped even if I’d wanted to.

I pushed with everything I had, shrieking and wailing, and felt the head nudge partially out. (Turns out my baby’s head ended up being in the 99th percentile for width. Lucky me.) Strangers held my legs and instructed me to stop clenching. Someone told me to focus on pushing the baby out with the next contraction.

Screw that.

I wanted this baby out NOW. Contraction or not. I continued pushing, squealing, crying, and clenching. The walls were caving in and I was losing my mind and I was going to pass out from the agony and nobody could help me. Nobody could help me!

And then – WHOOSH! He was out. Just like that. At 4:17am. Exactly 11 minutes after we pulled into the hospital parking lot.

The baby cried immediately. I laid there, stunned and trembling. Hubby asked someone why I was shaking so badly. They said it was normal – my body was in shock.

Someone, I’m assuming (hoping?) the on-call OB, began stitching my tears. My regular OB walked in and gestured that she would finish. The baby was weighed, measured, and deemed perfectly healthy. Perfectly healthy. The words every mother prays to hear.

A nurse asked for my name and indicated that we would have to now “work backwards.” In the chaos, I never received a hospital band, IV, nor monitors. We began going through my contraction and medical history (which seemed frankly silly after the fact).

Someone congratulated me on my “courageous natural birth.” I corrected her that there was nothing courageous about it. I had been screaming like a banshee and the ONLY reason I delivered naturally was because I had no other option. She indicated that I delivered the way every mother dreams to deliver – fast.

A nurse apologized for not believing that the baby was coming so quickly. She said she was the one who had talked to my husband on the phone. It’s just that every pregnant woman who comes in here says she is having the baby ‘right now,’ and then it turns out she is only 4 or 5 centimeters, she said. I’m sorry. We assumed this was the same.

The baby was placed in my arms. He gazed up at me and I fell completely, wholly, fully in love. Again. For a third time. My husband gave us a hug and all was good in the world. Perfect, actually.

But I still would have wanted that epidural.

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What to Pack in Your Maternity Hospital Bag + Free Printable

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 Free Printable Maternity Hospital Bag ChecklistDisclosure: This post contains affiliate links, earning me a small commission at no additional cost to you.  All opinions are 100% my own.

Now that I’m due with my third baby any time now, I’ve started to pack my maternity hospital bag.  With my first two children, I sought advice and read various recommendations on what I needed to pack – only to find that I didn’t bring along certain items I wish I had and vice versa.  Now that I’m a seasoned pro, I’ve put together a list of items that best fit my needs during maternity hospital stays.

Although I’m late to the party this time around, I recommend that you begin readying your bag anytime after 35 or 36 weeks pregnant.

Here are my recommendations and tips for your maternity hospital bag.  To check out all my recommended products, access my Amazon Influencer page (all purchases there will earn me a small commission at no additional cost to you).  At the end of this post, I’ve included a downloadable full-size list for you to print and go!

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Mom’s Clothing Items

  • Maternity Sweats/Shirts: Do yourself a favor and leave the nice clothes at home.  Comfy sweats and shirts are the best daytime clothing items to pack.  The hospital is often cold, so I’ve learned to leave the shorts and flowy dresses at home (Kate Middleton may be able to pull it off, but not me!)
  • Loose Pajamas: Nothing is better than changing into your comfy oversized pajamas after laboring in a scratchy hospital gown for hours on end.
  • Slippers or Thick Socks: Do you want to walk around on dirty hospital floors in your bare feet?  Me neither.  Pack the slippers or thick socks for cleanliness and to keep your feet warm in the chilly rooms.
  • Nursing Bra or Camisole: I recommend this whether or not you’re nursing.  Obviously for breastfeeding, it allows for ease of access.  But even if you’re not breastfeeding, you will be much more comfortable in these than in underwire bras. I’m a fan of these Loritta Maternity Seamless Nursing Bras for price and comfort.
  • Going Home Outfit (Loose): Again with the loose as you will still be bloated, larger than normal, and uncomfortable.  Avoid anything too fancy or with too many buttons.  I suggest maybe going a step up from sweats – to maternity yoga pants.
  • Cotton Panties (Larger Size): This is the one time it is perfectly acceptable to pull on some granny panties.  Go one size up from your regular size for maximum comfort, and skip the low rise or boy cut styles.  Simple cotton bikinis or briefs are the best – I recommend something like Hanes or Fruit of the Loom.
  • Loose Sweater: Did I mention that it gets cold in the hospital?  Bring an oversized sweater just in case.
  • Flip Flops: Bring these for the hospital shower.  You can grab a pair for as little as $2.50 at Old Navy.

Mom’s Toiletries

  • Hairbrush/Comb: Pretty self-explanatory.  Even if you tie your hair up, you may want to brush it out before pictures – or definitely after a shower.
  • Toothbrush/Toothpaste/Floss: Don’t neglect your teeth!  Purchase the travel size.
  • Soap/Shower Gel: Yes, they will likely provide you with soap at the hospital, but would you prefer that or your own soap or gel?  If bringing shower gel, don’t forget the shower loofah.
  • Shampoo/Conditioner: Same story as the soap.  Purchase the travel sizes.
  • Deodorant: This I haven’t seen the hospital supply, so don’t forget it!
  • Makeup: I will admit that I actually do not bring makeup to the hospital.  And it shows in my post-delivery pictures.  So if you want nicer pics than mine, go ahead and pack.
  • Lip Balm: With both prior stays, I remember vividly my lips being SO DRY the entire time.  I was grateful to have lip balm.
  • Ponytail Holders/Headbands: You will definitely need these during delivery, but even afterwards as well.

Mom’s Other Items

  • Pillow: Hospital pillows are about as comfortable as lying on a book.  Bring your own.  And use a pillow covering in a color other than white so you don’t mix up yours with the hospital’s.
  • Nursing Pillow: Whether or not you’re planning to nurse, you will want this.  It helps for laying on, sitting on, and a variety of other things.  I strongly recommend a Boppy Pillow for both the hospital and months home afterwards. I’ve included it as one of the 7 Most Useful Gifts For a First Time Mom.
  • Sanitary Pads/Briefs: With my first delivery, I packed extra absorbent winged sanitary pads.  They ended up not being absorbent enough.  So for my second, I went straight to the adult diapers.  Not only were these MUCH more comfortable, I had zero issues with absorbency.  I recommend Depends or Always for a more discreet profile.
  • Numbing Spray: Giving birth is NO JOKE, and the pain in your lady parts lasts long after the baby has been born.  With my second I was thankfully given the tip to bring numbing spray to assist with bathroom breaks post-delivery.  I recommend Dermoplast Pain Relieving Spray.
  • Breast Pads: Unless you want large milk stains ruining your shirts, these are a must for both hospital and home.  I’m a fan of the Lansinoh Disposable Nursing Pads as they are comfortable, discreet, and have a waterproof backing to protect clothes.
  • Nipple Cream: If you’re even considering breastfeeding, bring this.  Nursing is not easy on the nipples, and in my experience is extremely painful at first.  Lanolin cream helps soothe and heal your nipples, and is safe for baby.  I’ve tried several brands and my preference is Lansinoh Lanolin.  Fun fact: it also works wonders on very chapped lips or dry cracked feet.
  • Prenatal Vitamins: I bet you thought you were done with these after delivery, right?  Unfortunately not.  If you’re nursing, you will need to continue to take them.  I opt to switch from the prescription pills to the easier-to-digest gummy pills sold over the counter though.
  • Glasses/Contacts: Don’t forget these in the rush to get to the hospital – you will want to see your brand new bundle clearly!  Also pack contact lens solutions and cleaners.

Dad’s Clothing/Toiletry Items

  • Shirts/Pants/Sweaters: You know the drill.  Whatever he needs or wants to wear during his stay in the hospital with you.
  • Underwear/Boxers/Socks: The intimates, along with PJs to sleep in (please discourage him from sleeping in just his boxers at the hospital).
  • Blanket: Newsflash: Hospital blankets are almost as bad as hospital pillows.  Have him bring one from home for himself – and you too, if he’s feeling generous.
  • Toothbrush/Toothpaste/Floss: Travel sizes work well.
  • Shampoo: Or perhaps he can share yours?
  • Comb: Unless he shaves his head.
  • Deodorant: This he can’t share – so make sure he brings his own.
  • Razor/Shaving Cream: Along with any other mens’ products he needs to beautify himself each morning.

Dad’s Necessities (For Both)

  • Insurance Cards: You MUST bring this to the hospital, even if you’ve pre-registered.  Have him bring both yours and his.
  • Drivers Licenses: Same story – make sure he brings both (hoping his is a given assuming he is driving you there in the first place).
  • Registration Paperwork: If you have not already pre-registered at the hospital, bring the completed forms.  But I HIGHLY recommend you pre-register to save everyone some headache during a time when you’re likely to be in a lot of pain and not in the mood to be filling out paperwork.
  • Obstetrician Contact Information: Don’t forget this if you want your OB to deliver your baby!  Make sure he brings name, number, address, and any other pertinent information.
  • Pediatrician Contact Information: The hospital will request this so that your baby can have his or her first checkup.  Ensure that all pertinent contact information is brought along.
  • Camera/Charged Battery/SD Card: Charge the battery beforehand, and bring an extra charged battery just in case.  I also bring two SD cards – the one in the camera and an additional, because you can never overestimate how many pictures you’re going to take of the new baby!
  • Cash: For snacks, meals, and anything else you might need during your stay.
  • Friend/Family Contact Info: This is important assuming you want to announce your baby’s arrival outside of Facebook.  Make sure the list includes email addresses and cell phone numbers for calls and text messages.  It may be helpful to create a draft mass email or text message template beforehand – that way you can simply fill in the blanks and hit send instead of populating everyone’s name and information at the hospital.

Dad’s Other Items

  • Cell Phones/Chargers: I’d be lost without my cell phone at the hospital.  Same goes for the charger.  Bring both.
  • Laptops/Tablets: Whatever floats your boat.  Labor may take hours and if you’re not in too much pain (or opt for an epidural) you can surf the net, watch movies, read ebooks, or even work.
  • Sibling Gifts: I think it’s a nice and memorable gesture for the new baby to give each sibling a small gift. Think things like a baby doll, a big brother or sister book, etc.  My preschooler still talks about the gift that his brother gave him when he was born (a baby doll so that he could have his own baby to take care of).  This time around I purchased them both some coloring books and big brother books: You Were the First for my eldest, and I’m a Big Brother! for my youngest. It helps ease the transition and jealousy a tad.  So bring the wrapped gifts with you.
  • Bluetooth Speaker: If you want music during labor, bring a small bluetooth speaker to amplify your cell phone music list.
  • Snacks/Bottled Drinks: Things like granola bars, crackers, trail mix, favorite candy, and bottled water or teas help keep everyone satiated between meal times – or if the hospital meals aren’t quite up to par.
  • Gum/Mints: Great for both Mom AND Dad during and after long hours of laboring.
  • Towels/Garbage Bags for Car: You can never be too prepared.  Before rushing you off to Labor and Delivery, make sure Dad places a trash bag covered by a towel on the car seat.  You may not need it, but if your water suddenly breaks, everyone will be thankful.
  • Baby Book: Pack your favorite baby/nursing/related book to refer to during those first hours and days with a brand new human being to take care of. I use the Pearhead Chevron Baby Book and have been happy with it.

Baby’s Clothes/Toiletries

  • Going Home Outfit: Opt for something simple, comfortable, and without too many buttons or snaps.
  • Extra Outfits: While the hospital does provide onesies, they are typically thin, threadbare, and not overly attractive.  Bring some of your favorite new outfits from home – and perhaps a special outfit or two for the professional baby photographers who will come around and offer to take pictures.
  • Sleepers: These are sleep gowns that I love because they are easy to put on and take off (no snaps or buttons), and diapering is a breeze (just lift up the gown).  All the major baby clothing manufacturers make them, although I’m partial to Carters.
  • Mittens/Booties/Caps: If the hospital room is cold for you, imagine how it must feel for a newborn.  Be prepared with baby booties, caps, and mittens.  An added benefit of the mittens is that they help prevent babies from scratching themselves with long nails they are sometimes born with.
  • Baby Wash/Lotion (Travel Size): Bring something along for baby’s first bath, even if it is a sponge bath.  I love Babyganics Shampoo + Body Wash and Babyganics Daily Baby Lotion for clean, natural, and sensitive ingredients.
  • Vaseline: This is another item that the hospital will provide but in my experience, it comes in tiny packets (think ketchup packets) that are difficult to open and apply.  I also like being able to bring my own brands that I love.  Right now I’m a big fan of Burt’s Bees Baby Bee 100% Natural Multipurpose Ointment.
  • Newborn Size Diapers: This can be considered optional, as you will be supplied these at the hospital.  But if you have a certain brand in mind, bring your own.  They should also help stock your diaper bag.  I’ve tried all the major brands and, in my experience, Pampers is the best and most leak-resistant for newborns.  That said, others swear by other brands.  So try several out and see what works for you.
  • Baby Wipes: You can NEVER have too many baby wipes.  Not only for diapering, but for wiping up milk, spit-up, spills, and a variety of other messes.  My favorite by far are Target’s up & up Sensitive Baby Wipes – I purchase them by the case.

Baby’s Supplies

  • Car Seat: The hospital won’t let you leave without one, so this is arguably the most important item you can bring.  I’ve tried out and done a ton of research on many infant and convertible car seats, and have different preferences for each stage.  I will be writing a detailed review of my findings but, for now, I find the Chicco Keyfit 30 to be one of the very best infant car seats on the market.  And yes, I do recommend using an infant car seat for your baby – it is worth the money to be able to simply click the car seat in and out of vehicles and strollers without waking the baby.
  • Car Seat Cover: Even though I live in a warm climate, I consider this a must have.  It allows your baby to sleep, and prevents strangers from getting too close and touching your baby.  I recommend Car Seat Canopy – but before purchasing, search online for a coupon code that will give you the product FREE (you will only have to pay shipping of approximately $12).
  • Stocked Diaper Bag: This should be prepared before the baby arrives, and should include necessities like diapers, wipes, bottles, nipples, portable changing pad, Vaseline, receiving blankets, burp cloths, changes of clothes, etc.  I’ve found that some of the pricier diaper bags are not the most practical as they are simply too small and have too many slots.  My favorite bag to date is the simple $40 Eddie Bauer number from Target.
  • Receiving Blankets: This is another item that you can never overdo.  I use them for swaddling, covering, shielding, as a nursing cover, and for a variety of other purposes.  I use them to this day with my older children for different things.  So definitely bring a few receiving blankets to the hospital.
  • Warm Blanket: In addition to receiving blankets, a plush baby blanket is always a good idea for warmth or to cover the baby when going outside.
  • Swaddlers: I’ve mentioned in another post that I have never fully gotten the hang of properly swaddling a baby.  Luckily for me, there are cheat products available.  I highly recommend bringing along a few Summer Infant SwaddleMe Adjustable Infant Wraps just in case your dexterity is as questionable as mine.
  • Burp Cloths: Just as they sound, these are for keeping your clothes dry while burping your baby.  Pick up a few, and then a few more, as they will soil quickly.
  • Pacifier: It’s amazing how quickly a pacifier can soothe a crying baby.  Bring a couple of these to the hospital.

Baby’s Additional Supplies

  • Nursing Cover: A must-have for nursing or pumping.  I’ve used mine everywhere – from the car to public restrooms (yuck) to the hospital.  There are many different types available, but don’t spend a lot of money on this.  A simple inexpensive nursing cover works just fine.
  • Nipple Shields: I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: breastfeeding and pumping are PAINFUL, especially at first.  I use nipple shields to help with the pain and prevent the nipple from become too bloodied.  They also help the baby latch when physiological issues (such as inverted nipples) may be present.
  • Nasal Aspirator: The ones the hospital provides do nothing.  The absolute BEST baby nasal aspirator on the market is the Nosefrida.  I’ve also reviewed it in detail here.  Once you get over the idea of sucking boogers out of your baby’s nose (don’t worry – filters protect you from ingesting said boogers), you will be amazed at how well this product works.
  • Sterilized Bottles: Not sure if you’re going to breastfeed?  Bring a few pre-sterilized bottles and nipples just in case.  I’m a fan of Dr. Brown’s to help with colic.
  • Changing Pad: This should already be included in your baby bag but, if not, pick one up.  Something like this portable diaper changing kit would work well with room to store diapers and wipes in a convenient carrying case.
  • Notepad/Memory Book: While you can certainly use your cell phone, sometimes it’s just easier to jot down notes regarding your baby’s first days in a notebook.  You may also want to start on your baby’s memory book while events are still fresh in your mind.
  • Hand Sanitizer: We go through gallons of this stuff during our babies’ first weeks and months.  We all sanitize sanitize sanitize before picking up the baby.  Bring a few travel sized hand sanitizer bottles to the hospital to be prepared for guests.
  • Baby Nail Clippers: All my babies have arrived with long nails!  With number two I learned to bring a pair of nail clippers with us to the hospital.  A simple pair does just fine, but one with a small magnifying glass is helpful to avoid unintentional nicks.

So there you have it.  Feel free to add and delete as you see fit, but this is a list that has worked well for me.

Download, print, and save your free copy here: Maternity Hospital Bag Checklist.  Or, simply click on the image below.

Or to check out all my recommended products, access my Amazon Influencer page (all purchases there will earn me a small commission at no additional cost to you).

And now that you have your maternity bag packed, check out my post on all the items you must have for your new baby: What You Really Need For a New Baby + FREE Printable!

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Maternity Checklist PhotoCongratulations on your upcoming delivery!  I send you all my best for a smooth delivery and a comfortable hospital stay for Mom, Dad, and Baby.

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