We’ve all seen our friends’ Instagram pics post-birth at the hospital. Everyone’s cute, everyone’s happy, mama’s glowing, and baby’s dressed in an adorable outfit that’ll make you absolutely drool. We all know social media reflects reality, right? Just kidding.
What we don’t see is the long postpartum and discharge process. Mom’s tired and achy. All her clothes fit awkwardly, she keeps having to change menstrual pads, and she’s hoping the Instagram filter will make her look flawless when she feels anything but. This is totally normal.
If you know you want to share some first pics with your out-of-town friends, your coworkers, and your great-aunt Susie, here are a few reminders to help you pack for a memory-capturing photo before you leave for home sweet home.
Your postpartum body won’t be what you expect
Total pregnancy weight gain can be broken down this way [1]:
weight of the baby (on average, around 7.3lb.);
afterbirth and amniotic fluid, usually around a third of baby’s weight (maybe 2.5lb.);
expansion of the uterus (about 2.2lb.);
abdominal adipose tissue (at least 4.8lb., but varies by individual);
breast enlargement for lactation (just over 1lb.);
body tissue, fluids, and blood, increased in volume by pregnancy (around 7.7lb.).
After delivery, the baby, afterbirth, and amniotic fluid are immediately gone, so most new moms are around 10-13lb. lighter when they leave the hospital than when they arrived [2]. But you’re not back to your normal, familiar body, either. So when packing an outfit (because you’re not keen on having the moment memorialized while you’re in pajamas), consider that:
Even though the baby is now born, you are likely a few sizes larger than before you became pregnant. Choose non-restrictive, free-flowing clothing if possible until your weight stabilizes postpartum.
The uterus gradually shrinks after birth, and it will make itself felt with a protruding belly. Your abdomen will not immediately flatten after you’ve given birth, and this is normal.
Other considerations
Your legs and feet may still be swollen postpartum, so pack comfortable shoes that suit the weather forecast (in other words, stay warm in boots if it’s winter!). Don’t forget about outerwear like a coat or jacket.
Pack any toiletries or makeup that help you feel put-together. This may be as simple as your favorite lip balm and dry shampoo or your go-to eyeliner and lipstick. You do you!
Packing for baby
Most of baby’s stuff will be at home, and the hospital will provide some of the basics. Other ideas to consider are:
socks or booties;
a soft cap;
a blanket to wrap him in.
Many moms think about what first outfit they want to put on baby. Choose something practical as well as cute. Make sure it suits the weather and that baby will be comfortable. You can always match colors or incorporate gifted baby clothes from close relatives.
Introduce him to the world, and get him home to start your new adventure as a family!
