1. Camelback water bottle – Three words: Built.
In. Straw. Tipping a water bottle over to drink from it is going to seem like a
Herculean task while you’re busy pushing out a baby. And you’re gonna be
thirsty. Trust me, you will want this. $11.95 on Amazon.
2. A Sock With Tennis Balls In It. – Even if you don’t have
back labor, you’ll have back pain, and your partner’s hands will get tired.
This works remarkably well.
3. A Soft Headband – Because you’ll be sweaty, and pushing
hair out of your face will suddenly seem a tremendous effort.
4. EO Organic Lip Treatment - Lavender and Aloe – Your lips
will get dry with all that pushing, so you’re going to want lip balm. Although
I was never an aromatherapy person, in the heat of labor, I found that the
lavender scent of this organic lip balm really did make me feel less tense. Go
figure. $2.99 on Amazon.
5. Notebook and pen – Not for the actual labor
part, but immediately afterwards, you’ll want this to record the baby’s weight
and length. And then after that, to
keep track of feedings, and pain meds, and baby gifts, and shopping lists…
Now, if you want to save yourself some packing
trouble, the Deluxe Little Stork Delivery Bag is a worthwhile splurge – for $280, it has pretty much
everything you’ll need for during and after the delivery. (Also, the robe and slippers are way nicer than the ones in the photo.) Toss in the tennis
balls and the water bottle – plus a change of clothes, a Boppy and some
menstrual pads -- and you’re good to go.
Next up: Babble Bests, breastfeeding essentials and more! -- Gwynne Watkins
