Every mom to be has had those panic attack moments during their pregnancy about what to pack in the birth bag. We think to ourselves “What if I forget something super important” or ” What if this, what if that”… honey- take a deep breath and enjoy this list of my favorite items to bring in your birth bag!
Being a Tacoma Birth Photographer, I am so honored to be invited in these special moments for all my clients. Birth photography is hands down one of my favorite types of sessions to document. I’ve photographed ( and attended as a certified Doula) over 500 births since 2012, had 3 babies of my own (2 earthside, 1 in heaven), so I come bearing some knowledge (and giggles) for you to glean some wisdom on what to pack in that darn hospital birth bag that has been plaguing your thoughts at night!
- Your makeup bag and toiletries bag. PLEASE don’t forget your toothbrush and toothpaste! Don’t be like me with my second child and completely forget to pack the important mascara (or false lashes… cause those are a LIFESAVER) and toothbrush. My favorite mascara? Better than Sex Waterproof by TooFaced Cosmetics. It’s amazing-it lengthens, strengthens and is totally water proof- so when you give birth and see that gorgeous little human being put on your chest, you can shed some tears and not worry about mascara running down your cheeks. OR grab some of my fave lashes EVER- Kiss False Lashes and your favorite adhesive… and cry your eyes out when you get to hold the little miracle you’ve been growing the past (what feels like a decade) 9-ish months!
- Your birth plan. If you’ve one, of course. You’ll want to have your important documents like your ID and insurance info too. Need a cool birth plan? Check out The Bump for their free downloadable PDF birth plan!
- Your favorite water. Yes… I am an avid water drinker (along with oat milk vanilla lattes… but you “shouldn’t” have a coffee during your birth…) and I love my bottled water from Crystal Geyser. You’re going to be SOOOOO THIRSTY after you have that baby… you’ll want to have access to a comfort that is simple- and THAT is your favorite water.
- The Boppy. God’s greatest gift to nursing moms since the regular pillow. I honestly can tell you I had 3-4 different boppy’s during the nursing days. One in the car, one by the couch, one by my bed and one that traveled around the house or wherever I needed it. I even have one in the studio for my newborn clients and my nursing days have been over for almost 4 years now 😉 BEST INVENTION EVER. It’s a little tough to actually fit this in your birth bag, but your honey can carry it for you 😉
- Cute Pajamas and a stunning delivery gown. Girlfriend… don’t bring the jammies that your grandma gave you at your baby shower (you know the one I’m talking about… the grandma looking nightgown mumu that makes you look like your in your 80’s). There is a time and place for ugly jammies- and the hospital is not one of them. DO get comfy jammies though. Something easy to sleep in, walk around in and jammies that you wont worry about revealing any kind of leakage (from the front and the back…). The gown below… I am OBSESSED with Pink Blush. Their gowns, clothes… everything. Go check them out!
- Essential Oils, a good carrier oil and tennis balls. You’re probably thinking “What kind of combination is that, Jules?” Essential oils are amazing. IF used properly of course (oh my gosh… do not ingest any EO’s please), essential oils can make your labor more calm and peaceful. My favorite carrier oils are fractionated coconut oil and sweet almond oil. They absorb well into your skin and your honey/birthing partner can rub your lower back and shoulders with some EO’s and carrier oils. Those tennis balls are for pressure on your lower back. Bring 2 or 3. I promise you that you will thank me later if you haven’t already been told about the tennis balls. P.S. Plant Therapy is my FAVORITE brand on the market. Their oils are incredible and therapeutic grade for a fraction of the price of some other well known companies. Also… if you’re unsure of WHAT EO’s you can and cant use during pregnancy, birth and beyond- shoot me a message! I’m a registered aromatherapist and would love to give some words of wisdom.
- Slippers. With non-slip grip at the bottom. The hospital ones are ugly and don’t fit right… on anyone. Don’t spend too much though- you’ll probably forget these at the hospital or birthing center when you leave! Snag these INCREDIBLE Pillow Slides (your sore feet will thank you) at Amazon for pretty cheap!
- Bathing suit for your honey if your planning on a water birth! Simply put, your honey probably doesn’t want to be in their skivvies while you are pushing out that precious bundle of joy.
- A bluetooth speaker and a loaded playlist on Spotify or Apple Music. Why? Music heals the soul. Music calms you. And what better way to bring a perfect little human into the world with Bach, or Rascal Flats, Hillsong or Metallica playing in the background! My ABSOLUTE favorite speaker in the world is the UE Megaboom. It’s pricey but 100% worth it- and it’s waterproof (legit… I take mine to the river every summer and sit with it in the water) for that water birth you are planning!
- Last but surely not least- an amazing nursing bra. You’ll need like 10. Get one with no underwire… cause comfort is key during the beginning stages of nursing! And get breast pads. No one really ever told me about the breast pads… but when my milk came in and I woke up with a bed drenched in boob milk… I was a little mortified. Save yourself the mortification and get some boob pads. Medela was my favorite brand- for some reason they just were amazing. But I know other brands are great too! Use what’s best for YOU!
Remember ladies… this is YOUR birth. Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. You be confident, strong and rock your birth. And if you’re seeking a Tacoma Birth Photographer or in the surrounding area, let’s chat! I have limited availability for 2023/2024 births and plenty of availability for Fresh 48 sessions!
xo, Jules
ps… there are some affiliate links on this blog post. Ive got 3 teens… one about to go into college- teenagers are expensive!
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