Pack a Comfort Items Bag for Labor
There are many articles about pack your essentials bag for labor (nightgown, slippers and socks), but you also need to think about packing a specific comfort measures bag. This is a separate bag that has strictly comfort measure items in it. By packing a separate bag, your partner will know just where to find what you need. This is also helpful if you hire a doula or have family with you during your labor; they won't have to go through your personal belongings to find what you need. Here are some suggestions for putting together a comfort bag.
Instructions
1. Pack a pair of extra warm and soft socks/slippers. If you want to move around during labor, you will need something to pad your feet from the hard floor. If you choose to wear socks, make sure they have the non-skid pads on the bottom so that you won't slip.
2. Pack a focal point. This can be a picture of your other children, a portrait of you and your partner on your wedding day or any other picture that you'd like. You can also use any small item that holds significant value for you.
3. Bring a portable c.d. player with a great selection of music. You don't have to bring lullabies and soft music - bring whatever you like. Make sure that you also bring an extra pair of batteries in case it is a long labor.
4. Bring candy or mints to suck on. Many hospitals will not allow you to eat or drink in labor and your mouth can get very dry. Having a hard candy or mint can refresh your taste and keep your mouth moist. It can also keep your mind away from the contractions.
5. Bring lotion or oil for massages. You can bring scented lotion or oil, but remember that you will be very sensitive in labor and smells may or may not agree with you.
6. Pack lip balm. During labor your lips will get very dry. This is due to breathing more heavily than what you are used to and not having anything to drink. If you like a certain flavor, feel free to bring that too. Flavors such as coconut and pineapple can be used with imagery.
7. Bring a rolling pin or back massager. It is very common in labor to have back pains. Using a rolling pin on the back can put a decent amount of pressure on the back while alleviating some pain. If you find that a rolling pin is too uncomfortable, you can use a different kind of back massager.
8. Pack a handheld personal fan. During transition it is common to experience hot and cold flashes within the same few minutes. It is much easier and faster to have a personal fan if you begin to experience hot flashes than to wait for the air conditioner to cool things off.
9. Bring a birthing ball. Birthing balls are extremely helpful in labor. You can use them for relaxation purposes or for a softer seat in the shower. You can find a birthing ball at any retail or sporting goods store.
10. Pack a rice sock. Rice socks are easy to make and come in handy when you need heat in a certain area.
11. Bring aromatherapy scents/oils. Scents like lavender, chamomile, rose and peppermint are usually relaxing during labor. You can use these scents alone or to enhance your imagery experience.
Tags: back massager, birthing ball, Comfort Items, Comfort Items Labor, during labor