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Pregnancy

Talk about every stage of pregnancy, from early symptoms to preparing for birth.

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Original poster

Nightdress or pyjamas?

11 replies

Merinda · 03/09/2011 22:31

I keep reading that I need to have a nightdress in the hospital post-birth, but wonder if pyjamas are equally ok? I have never worn a nightgown in my life, so this would be a first, but I do not find them comfortable.

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aethelfleda · 03/09/2011 22:40

Dude, get whatever is comfortable! Pyjamas are fine as long as the bottoms are stretchy and the waist comes up reasonably high (you'll need to be able to fit in sanitary towels after the birth). If you're breastfeeding then male sure the top has buttons so you can access your boobs easily to feed baby.
I've had two DDs and have seen people wear PJs or nightshirts in hospital, not seen an old fashioned nightgown as they have tight necks so no good for feeding. So just get what works for you and is comfy!

Original poster

Merinda · 03/09/2011 22:43

Thanks, I know it sounds like a stupid question, but got a bit paranoid...

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aethelfleda · 03/09/2011 22:47

Not stupid at all! There are so many recommendations/lists/bobbins it can easily get overwhelming.... Some of it is manufacturers trying to convince you that you NEED x/y/z. Another eg is the "disposable maternity knickers and special maternity pads for after the birth" thats on all the baby list. It's way more comfy buying one size up cheap granny knickers from tescos/primark and night time heavy flow sanitary towels with wings....

milkjetmum · 03/09/2011 23:09

Hi - don't mean to be too graphic but I think the reason they recommend it is to make it easier if you have a catheter in for parts of labour or afterwards...

But of course dressing gown could work just as well if you prefer.

HPonEverything · 04/09/2011 09:13

I'm so glad you asked this as I've been wondering the same thing. Nightdresses are really not "me" but I thought maybe they need access to something that they can't get to in pyjamas IYSWIM

Had a look in Mothercare yesterday and was really not struck on the 'gowns' so I plumped for a groovy pair of PJs with a button-down top.

I'm so vain it almost hurts, but also was thinking long term, and being very shy I don't like to think of a gown riding up and displaying my pants to all and sundry

BedHog · 04/09/2011 09:50

Whatever option you choose, get a dark colour. Hides the blood stains much better!!!

BiscuitNibbler · 04/09/2011 10:07

If I were you I'd pack at least one nightdress just in case. I ended up with an EMCS and had a catheter and therefore was stuck in bed for a bit so the nurses had to change my pad for me (also had a few floods, which fortunately my nightie was out of the way of - sorry for TMI). Also, I wasn't exactly in a position to be able to pull down and back up pyjama bottoms for a few days.

I second the advice to choose a dark colour - also important for the towel you take in with you.

Original poster

Merinda · 04/09/2011 17:42

Thank you all for the advice. I did not think about catheters and stuff like that, so I guess will have to find a nightdress (gown, shirt - no clue what the difference is)...

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queenebay · 04/09/2011 17:48

I took a mixture-nightie and matching pj bottoms

Empusa · 04/09/2011 17:50

I don't wear nighties either, hugely baggy t-shirts are just as good though.

BodyUnknown · 04/09/2011 18:46

I was told to bring a nightgown - I hate nighties as they show off my horrible legs, so I packed my favourite PJs too. In the event, I did have a catheter and so it was the nightgown most of the way, but once the catheter was out I got out of the (by then filthy and bloodied) hideous nightie and into my lovely pyjamas. Take both :)

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