What’s in my Hospital Bag for Baby #2

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A subtle heart nail

in my hospital bag

one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, eleven, twelve, thirteen, fourteen, fifteen, sixteen, seventeen, eighteen, nineteen, twenty, twenty-one, twenty-two, twenty-three

Well, it’s about that time to head back to the hospital for another c-section. I was pretty relaxed about what I packed in my hospital bag when I was pregnant with David, and that is remaining true for this baby as well.

I just don’t feel like I really need that much. I mean, in the grand scheme of things you don’t really need to bring anything with you, so packing a bag just seems like a nice “extra” in general. Perhaps it’s partly because we live so close to the hospital, and I know I could have a relative, or even Justin, grab something for me in case I really needed it.

I don’t mind hospital gowns, hospital pillows, or anything like that, so I didn’t bring my own pillow and didn’t actually put on my own robe until the day after I had David.

This time around, I’m packing pretty much the same stuff! I left out electronics, like my camera, laptop and an extension cord on the graphic, but I’ll bring those as well.

David was a good sleeper right off the bat, and I’m glad I had my iPhone and laptop to pass the time as I sat in bed and healed. I remember the first walk around the hospital halls feeling SO good because I was able to move! And the first shower? That felt like heaven.

Anyway, for this baby, I’m packing just a few neutral outfits. We won’t know if it’s a boy or girl until delivery day so I bought some fresh, white/cream baby items for this new little one.

As far as beauty goes, I keep it pretty darn simple. I’m not the kind of girl, believe it or not, that wants to have full hair and makeup done right after the baby comes out. Plus, my hospital discourages wearing makeup or nail polish if you are having a planned c-section. With David, I had washed and styled my hair that morning, but I was laying on it the whole day so that was kind of pointless to begin with.

The first “beauty” thing I did was pop my contacts in once I got back to recovery room. Other than that I didn’t actually apply any makeup until the next day.

Sheer lip color, my beloved BB cream, and super hydrating products are essentials for my beauty kit in the hospital. And if there’s only one single product I could bring, it would be the Caudalie Beauty Elixir. Nothing feels more refreshing than a spritz of that on my face in the morning.

I didn’t actually wash my hair the entire time I was in the hospital! I don’t know why, I just didn’t feel like it. My hair doesn’t get very oily very quickly, so I didn’t REALLY need to wash it anyway. So, I may throw some travel size shampoo and conditioner in my bag, but I might not even use it.

Since I’m having a c-section again, I’ll be wearing maternity pants, and stretchy ones, until my incision heals well. I can’t remember how long I wore maternity pants after having David, but I know it will be several weeks! I’ve lived in the stretchy black leggings from Target and will continue to postpartum.

Last time I was told to bring the boppy pillow to assist with breastfeeding but I didn’t end up using it. I just used a stack of hospital pillows. So, I’m leaving that at home and can send someone for it should the need arise.

If you are looking for a more organized, over-prepared hospital bag packer, I’m afraid I’m not your gal! If you are expecting your first baby, and are unsure what to pack, just know that you’ll probably be totally fine with whatever you do bring.

I did, however, find a very thorough graphic of what a super prepared person should pack in their hospital bag on Pinterest. If that is more your style, check it out here!

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Veronica Perez says · 02.11.15

Kate, good luck with everything!!! Let us know if it is a Girl or a Boy…But the most important thing is that the Baby be in good health and you too….
Today is very sunny in Paris…… and beautiful weather…So this is very good “agurio” for baby’s arrival….. Much love from here… Veronica.

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Cynthia says · 02.11.15

I’ve had three babies and you’re even more prepared than I have ever been. With the last two babes, I packed my bag while I was in early labour. Oops.

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Cynthia says · 02.11.15

Also, I’m sooooo excited for you. It must be mind blowing to know that you’re going to meet the little one tomorrow. I pray everything goes well for you and baby, I pray for your healthcare providers that they’re able to take good care of you and have the wisdom to handle anything that comes their way, and I pray for little David and Justin, that they’re able to make this transition well. I can’t wait to “meet” Baby Bryan.

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Leigh Ann says · 02.11.15

I way overpacked for the first! Won’t be doing that again 🙂 but I must add flip flips for the shower to the ideas! I got that tip from another blog for my first, and I was glad I had them.

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Linds says · 02.11.15

I agree that less is more, I didn’t need most the things that I packed. I was only in the hospital for one night and it was crazy hot so I didn’t even end up changing out of the hospital gown until it was home time. But I did bring flip flops and they really came in handy. Also I packed some fruit, the hospital food was horrible so I was happy to have my bananas!!!

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Christen says · 02.11.15

I just remember a couple things being things I really appreciated: small snacks (like KIND or luna bars), a nice aromatherapy lotion (like Bath and Body Works’ Eucalyptus Spearmint) and a nice comfy pair of yoga pants (like some from Lululemon). Those were the nice things to keep me sane and comfortable in the hospital.

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Rachel says · 02.11.15

I have been reading your blog for a couple of years and recently was very blessed by one of your posts. I had my first baby by C section one week ago. I had planned to have her vaginally and was absolutely positive I wouldn’t be having a C section so I glossed over the sections in all my books that talked about it and didn’t pay much attention to that part of our birthing class either. I think the only thing I really read on the topic was your post about David’s delivery. After many hours of labor with my little one not in a good position for vaginal birth (her little hand was up on her head preventing her from descending) I ended up needing up needing to go for surgery. I was fairly nervous since I was at an increased risk for bleeding following a long labor and I know of course your C section was scheduled but I remembered how not-scary your post made it sound and I chose to focus on that rather than on all of the possible risks and complications. It was really a blessing in that moment to have that to think about. Thank you for writing, as you always do from such a positive point of view.

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Erin Fahrner says · 02.11.15

I love this! Congratulations on your new baby!

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Kate says · 02.11.15

Glad it was helpful for you!

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Oksana says · 02.11.15

Good luck Kate!!! Wishing you smooth sails thru another delivery. Have to say this is the most stylish and well thought out bag I’ve ever seen! I just had my second csection and I brought bare minimum with me as well.

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Alma says · 02.11.15

Good luck on the planned c-section. May your baby be healthy and let us know if it’s a boy or a girl.

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Jenny D says · 02.11.15

Is it crazy that I’ve thought about you all week….I don’t even know you! Wishing you all the best tomorrow! 🙂

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Sara says · 02.11.15

Can’t wait to see your new little bundle! 🙂

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kathleen says · 02.11.15

I love your blog and just want to say good luck while I still have the chance. I remember you had a hard time nursing with David, but since you mentioned it in this post I was wondering if you were going to give it another try? I had such a hard time with my first and have up at 6 weeks, then I tried again with#2 and we r still going strong art 10 months. I just want to say I’d u are going to give it another go then I wish you the best of luck With everything! 🙂

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Joy says · 02.11.15

Thank you so much for this. It’s been 5 years since I’ve been pregnant and I forgot everything! I need something like this. Thanks again 🙂

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Susan Meyer says · 02.11.15

Looking forward to see the new baby! Your in our thoughts and prayer… Super excited for you & your family!

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Susan Meyer says · 02.11.15
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Autumn (@beautifully gray) says · 02.11.15

So excited for you Kate! I hope everything goes smoothly for you.

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Erin Fahrner says · 02.11.15

Good luck tomorrow! I am excited to find out what you are having and see his/her beautiful face.

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Teri says · 02.11.15

Best Wishes! Everything will be just fine. Just rely on the Lord and your family. I can’t wait to hear what you had!

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JNJxn says · 02.11.15

Thank you for posting a relaxing list for new moms! The list I used a couple of years ago was WAY too over the top for me, and I didn’t use half of the stuff I brought. It really is not as big of a deal as it is made out to be and I appreciate you setting that tone here! 🙂 Yes, some things are nice to have but it shouldn’t create unnecessary stress.

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JNJxn says · 02.11.15

Also, good luck and congratulations!! Just said a prayer for you!

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Lisa says · 02.11.15

Eek! So exciting. I cannot WAIT to read the news if you had a boy or girl, and I love hearing baby names so I’m super curious about that too. Wishing you all the best!

P.S. Do you find that the fair shade of BB cream is still quite dark for being the lightest? I know you struggled to find one you liked, but did you find the colours difficult to match?

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Kate says · 02.11.15

No, I don’t think it’s dark at all!

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Nicole says · 02.11.15

Best of luck tomorrow as you welcome your new little one to your family — how very exciting! Blessings to you all for a safe delivery and recovery!

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Emily says · 02.11.15

We didn’t findthe gender out with either of our children and one thing I do regret was not having gender specific hats or blankets. We waited 9 months to find out and now he or she is still wearing white!

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Emily says · 02.11.15

Especially for pictures and such!

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Amanda says · 02.11.15

We didn’t find out boy or girl with our last baby, so I brought blue AND pink outfits and blankets in my hospital bag. They’re so little they didn’t take much space. It was fun to have our son looking like a boy right away!

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Sissi says · 02.11.15

You make me all excited for the baby!!!! Can´t wait to see a photo!

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Lisa Hays says · 02.11.15

So excited for you! Please show someone how to post a picture on the blog so we can see you and new baby and read the stats. Your outlook is so great – relaxed, confident, realistic. I’m a 3 time C/S mom and NICU nurse and from those perspectives you are spot -on in your mindset. Advice: accept all offers of help 🙂

Best of luck tomorrow!

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Krissy says · 02.11.15

I am so excited for you Kate! I get teary eyed reading posts about your babies. I wish you many blessings, and I pray that everything goes smoothly and the baby is healthy.

Best wishes from Kristen.

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Hildy says · 02.11.15

I love this! I think a lot of new moms stress out about packing the hospital bag, and then end up lugging too much stuff. The hard part comes when you’re discharged and you have to round up everything you brought with you! Really, the most important things are a camera and a car seat, IMHO. I didn’t use my own gown or Boppy or anything when I had my 2 kids, and it ended up being just fine 🙂 IBest of luck to you!

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Laney says · 02.11.15

I love this! When you had this post when you were pregnant with David, it’s what brought me to your page. I was just a few weeks behind you with my 2nd pregnancy. I feel like we’ve all been on this journey with you and I can’t wait to find out the gender of your little bundle! Best of luck!

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Sara W says · 02.11.15

Jag jeans from Nordtrom are awesome! I bought two pair after my last c-section. They’re not maternity so you can wear them forever but they have a wide stretchy waist band that eliminates muffin top and is gentle on your healing stomach (after maternity pants feel too big). Best of luck to you!

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Leigh says · 02.11.15

Good luck with c-section #2! I had c-section #2 last summer. I think I took less than you! I didn’t need much the first time and I used even less the second time. Can’t wait to see if baby is a boy or girl!

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Christine @ Bluegrass Blogger says · 02.11.15

I just had my second child on 12/26. We didn’t find out the sex either and were thrilled when I delivered a little girl! My son just turned 3 on Monday and my daughter is now 6 weeks old. Time flies by so quickly. This post actually makes me miss my hospital stay.

Best of luck to you!

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April W says · 02.11.15

seriously it’s about time someone posted a list that shows you don’t need to take EVERYTHING with you. the only thing i’d probably add is nursing pads if your milk comes in early. they are tiny and don’t take up tons of space. Not sure if your hospital provides that (mine didn’t).

Good luck on your c-section and excited as well to see if you are having! I’m having my second in early April. A boy this time (my daughter is 2) so it will be interesting to see the difference between them.

And i totally agree about the caudalie elixir. or at least something that makes your face feel fresh. birth is messy regardless how it happens, so a little something to make you feel fresh and clean is always nice.

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Petunia Pickle Bottom says · 02.11.15

Love this! Wishing you the best of luck from all of us here at PPB.

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Linda says · 02.11.15

Kate, I love reading your blog. You have been on my mind all week. Hoping everything goes well tomorrow. Can’t wait to find out if the newbie is a beautiful princess or handsome prince. God Bless.

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Clever Girl Reviews says · 02.11.15

I love stretchy pants and I’ve never had kids! STRETCHY PANTS FOR ALL!

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valerie says · 02.11.15

Best wishes to you, your family and new little one!

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Meagan says · 02.11.15

Good luck with the birth of your sweet babe! Can’t wait to see photos!
-Meg
http://www.smalltownsisters.blogspot.com

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Jacquelynn says · 02.11.15

I LOVED reading this! I am having my second baby next friday as a scheduled c-section. I am going to go look at that beauty spray and the ponds makeup remover cloths tomorrow! I already use the Kiehl’s product and the BB cream… love them both!

Sending you prayers for a wonderful c-section and recovery. Can’t wait to read about the new baby!

(PS: So glad I found your blog thru Kacia’s) <3

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Lisa says · 02.11.15

So refreshing! Lol! Another blogger I follow was packed for her trip to the hospital, false eyelashes, high heels and extensions and all! Ha, ha. Thanks for keeping it real!

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Joanna C says · 02.12.15

Good luck today Kate! So excited for you!

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Joanne says · 02.12.15

Best of luck to you and your beautiful family.

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Rachele W. says · 02.12.15

Great list, love the bag…and good luck!!!

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Maia says · 02.12.15

This is such a beautiful/good list! So glad I found it. 🙂 Hope it all went well for you!

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Sarah says · 02.12.15

My #2 was a surprise rapid labor a week before the date of scheduled c-section. I showed up at the hospital with a husband and a towel. No bag, no camera, no phone to call my mom, not even shoes! Needless to say, we survived all 15 minutes of labor and the night to follow without a bag 🙂 Best wishes for an uneventful delivery!

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Andrea says · 02.14.15

Love this minimal list – exactly what I needed for my first (coming in just 4 weeks)! Thanks for sharing 🙂

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Tara K says · 02.16.15

I would use the lovely bag for school. Thanks!

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Vanessa Flahive says · 03.01.15

Love all of these! Im wondering who your favorite bloggers to follow are when it comes to mothering and parenting.. I have a preemie who is now 15 months and am looking to gain experiences from others. I’d love to know who you follow. Congrats on Luke, he’s adorable!

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mich says · 07.04.15

My husband picked up a hospital bag from TheMotherDuck.com i’ve seen them on etsy too…so cute with all the essentials that made me feel better after birth! Maybe It was the thought he put into it but it was pretty awesome!

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