If you’re anything like me, you sought out blogs, articles, and advice from friends to get the lowdown on what to expect during your hospital stay after welcoming your little one. However, there were still a few surprises that caught me off guard. Therefore, I’m sharing some insights to help you be better prepared during this whirlwind experience.
1. Visit the Restroom Before You Feel the Urge
Trust me, getting from the bed to the bathroom feels like an Olympic event. By the time you gather the courage to stand, shuffle to the bathroom, and fill up your squirt bottle, you might find yourself doing the potty dance. Take my advice and go earlier than necessary, especially since you just gave birth!
2. Cravings Don’t Disappear Post-Delivery
I was convinced my cravings would vanish once my baby was born. Spoiler alert: they didn’t! Bring along some of your favorite snacks, like ice cream, to help soothe those postpartum cravings. Quitting cold turkey while adjusting to motherhood isn’t the best plan.
3. Stock Up on Your Own Pain Relievers
That sweet nurse who offers you ibuprofen may seem like an angel, but wait until you see the hospital bill for those little pills—$10 each! You can grab a large bottle for a fraction of the price. Just let them know you’ve got your own stash, and if you need something stronger, don’t hesitate to ask them to add it to your tab.
4. Request a List of Your Nurses
You’ll likely meet many nurses throughout your stay, and it’s easy to forget names amidst the chaos. These dedicated individuals deserve an enormous thank you for their hard work. While the doctor delivers the baby, the nurses handle all the messy details. Having their names will help you express gratitude later.
5. Bring Earplugs and a Sleep Mask
Hospital rooms are lit up like a Christmas tree, and the constant noises can make it tough to catch some Z’s. Pack earplugs to drown out hallway chatter and machinery beeps, and a sleep mask to block out those pesky lights. Your partner can wake you if the baby needs you, so you can focus on resting.
6. Invest in Stretchy Yoga Pants
You may think you want loose-fitting clothes after giving birth, but those postpartum pads can shift around. Grab some stretchy, semi-fitting yoga pants to keep everything snug and in place. Bonus points if they’re high-waisted to support your recovering belly.
7. Don’t Forget Your Own Bath Towel
Yes, the hospital provides towels, but they’re about the size of hand towels and smell like bleach. Bring your own soft, absorbent towel to make your post-delivery experience a bit more comfortable. You might not want to take it home, but it will definitely feel nicer on your skin.
8. Let Go of Modesty
Once you check in, modesty goes out the window. During labor and after, you’ll be exposed, and that’s okay. If you’re struggling with breastfeeding, don’t hesitate to ask a lactation consultant for help, even if it means some awkward positioning. It’s better than Googling “how to breastfeed” at 2 a.m. while juggling a crying baby.
While there are many important aspects of caring for your new arrival, don’t underestimate the value of these practical tips. They can make those initial hospital days a little easier. Good luck!
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Summary
This article shared eight essential tips to help new parents navigate their hospital stay after delivery. From addressing cravings to managing pain relief and the importance of comfortable clothing, these insights aim to ease the transition into parenthood.
Keyphrase: tips for hospital stay after delivery
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