Extras to pack for c-section?

[FML2017]

I’m having a planned section next Thursday and would appreciate any advice on what to pack in my hospital bag that I wouldn’t bring if I were having a vaginal birth.

Thanks in advance!

I've only had CSs so can't comment on a VB bag, but I'd definitely have big knickers, a nightdress rather than pj's for ease of dressing and dry shampoo because they may not let you shower for 48-hours.

Flip flops or sandals. My feet were so swollen after my emcs, I couldn't get any other shoes on.

Had mine three weeks ago (first was an emergency so was primed for what might be useful). I was able to shower within 12 hours both times.

Besides general toiletries/clothes, things I found really useful were:

Snugglebundl blanket - has handles you can use to lift baby, I found it made picking her up and putting her into the bedside cot so much easier as I could do it one handed without leaning.

Powerbank for phone - plug sockets not always in easy reach to use plugged in

Bluetooth headphones - to easily watch downloaded films/programmes without getting tangled

Snacks and water bottle with a little squeezy bottle of vimto.

Not for hospital but once home I had one of those litter picker/grabber things so I didn't need to bend - highly recommended!

Good luck!

I found flight socks much better than the compression stockings that I was given.

Big, big, big knickers!!!

A dress to come home in. I tried leggings but couldn’t cope with them.

An extra pad. On the inside of your knickers is good for protecting the incision.

I went in for an induction but had a section as it failed, to be honest there was nothing extra I needed from what I expected and was out about 20 hours after luckily, I did have peppermint tablets for the trapped wind afterwards. Good luck!

I always add this to these threads but earplugs!!! And eyemask!!

The very nature of the post-op ward is that there are a higher than normal number of mums who have additional needs (diabetes etc) so may be prone to a touch of snoring plus the comings and goings through the night mean that the wards are bright, and noisy all through the night, If you’re unlucky like me. You’ll still hear your own baby crying.

Also extra pillow. Satin pj’s bottoms really helped me with moving round on the bed, post op. Giant black cotton knickers (several sizes bigger than your normal size). Decent headphones for hospital tv. Proper china mug for cups of tea/coffee so you don’t need to use horrible tiny plastic cups. Lots of snacks!

I’ve had 2 c-sections. My second hospital stay was amazing after learning all these tips after my first!

I can't recommend Mothercare c-section knickers enough, I have had two sections, 1 emergency and 1 planned and they are amazing!

helly29 I've just researched the snugglebundl blanket- it looks fab. I had a chance section last time and having another next week too. It looks like it will save my back (which was strangely v sore last time as I was overcompensating for my sore tummy)

Oh I'd like to add, a cleaning supply caddy/ shower caddy
www.wilko.com/mops+buckets/wilko-cleaning-caddy/invt/0300346

When your on hospital bed there often isn't a side table to put your phone, eye mask, drink of water etc so this caddy can hook over one of the side rails. Also great to carry to the shower with you and organise your toiletries.

2 x c sections here!
Peppermint oil capsules and peppermint tea. The pain caused by trapped wind can be horrific. These will alleviate it.
I took a breast feeding pillow too both times. Even if you’re now breast feeding it can just help you be comfy.
I took a soft sling the second time as DC1 wouldn’t be put down ever!
Ask for a side car crib that clips onto the bed.
Technically not what you asked but geet up and move around as much as possible as soon as possible. If they offer enhanced recovery, take it. Good luck!

*you’re not

Big belly warmer pants so the waistband doesn't press on the incision (got mine 3 sizes bigger than normal). Comfy ballet flats as they'll make you wear surgical stockings. During recovery I lived in vests and leggings with a jumper over the top (also 3 sizes bigger than normal, nice loose legs to fit over stockings and a loose waistband). I was able to shower the next day, bring your own towel to dry your incision.

Thanks so much everyone for the suggestions, lots of things I would never have thought of

@TynesideBlonde I was strongly advised to avoid peppermint tea because it inhibits milk production. I Austria they give it to dry up if you are stopping breastfeeding.

Fennel tea encourages milk production and helps with the wind.

Breastfeeding can be slow starting with c section and getting a good position can be hard at first so everything to keep your nipples happy!

I didn’t know that @situp. I breastfed fine both times. I was given peppermint capsule in the hospital due to referred pain by the same midwife who was helping me establish breastfeeding! Fenugreek is also good for milk supply.