Covid-19: What pregnant mums should pack in their hospital bag during the pandemic

Amid the excitement and expectancy to welcome the new member into the family, a pandemic is definitely a killjoy. It is quite understandable to feel apprehensive about your and the baby’s security.
Medical experts around the world assure that there is no fear if you are careful about the safety measures. At this time, stay in touch with your gynaecologist and pack your hospital bag with extra care.
You must prepare for the hospital trip with a meticulous plan. Start with making a checklist to pack your hospital bag. Here’s what you would need.
You may choose to go back home in the same clothes you came into the hospital. Otherwise, pack a loose set. Don’t forget a pair of comfortable flat shoes.
If you need, take a comfortable pillow from home. Consider taking a small towel and a feeding pillow.
Most of the initial needs of the new-born will be taken care of by the hospital. You will only need to prepare for the baby’s journey home. Keep these things ready.
Keeping the current pandemic in mind, some changes have come in hospital policies. These will depend on the individual hospitals. Most hospitals will allow only one supporting member with you.
[[nid:488300]]
Also, once both of you are in the hospital, you will only come out when you are discharged. This means that your partner will not be able to leave or go out for those days.
Therefore, pack essentials judiciously for both of you. Remember that the hospital may not be providing essentials to him. So, towel, pillow or blanket may be needed.
Ask your hospital about what they provide. Pack enough snacks and drinks, if the hospital allows. Keep both your and partner’s prescription files handy, in case of emergency. You may prepare as you would for a long holiday.
UNICEF has advised patients against carrying too many items. If you recover quickly, your hospital may allow you to go home ahead of the usual time. Talk to your caregiver about your condition to get the real picture.
The pandemic calls for some necessary items.
There are some things you would not need such as cleaning supplies or gloves.
Don’t burden yourself with too much of non-essentials. Have a clear idea about your procedure, what the hospital provides and how much more you both might need.
Pandemic or not, the main aim is to safely get your baby home.
For the latest updates on the coronavirus, visit here.
This article was first published in theAsianparent.