Estimate 2- minute Read
Most first-time moms don't usually have a family or mom friend around to ask questions and guidance. You can not quickly search for the answer on the internet. Google might give you solutions that cater to every mom in different parts of the world, which is not effective, right? Then what should we prepare as a first-time mom here in the Philippines?
I jot down a list of what you should prepare before giving birth here in the Philippines. Take your pen and notes because it will be a fruitful article that you might forget when you start to feel that you are about to pop!
Table of Contents:
- Daddy
- Mommy
- Baby
DADDY
Usually, first-time Dads find it hard to bring all the necessary when they are also in a panic when your water breaks. To save him the hassle of going back and forth between the house, pharmacy, and hospital. Give him this list, and he will thank you later.
- Pen! (Funny, but yes, he will use this all the time.)
- Government-issued IDs and other essential documents (SSS, Phil health, HMO if you have one, medical records, OBgyne's information, and admission orders.)
- Charger, portable WIFI, and power bank
- Phone and Camera to capture your precious moments
- Extra shirts, Pajama and hygiene kit
- Alcohol for the guest and himself
- Ask him to wear comfortable footwear because he will be running around the hospital.
- Most importantly, His Wallet and Cards.
MOMMY
This list will vary from one mother from the other but based on my experience, this is the best summary of all the things you will need.
- Bathrobe to top your hospital suit if you quickly get cold
- Breastfeeding pajamas, nursing tops and nursing camisole and bras
- Nipple Care Balm
- Soft slippers
- If you don't plan to cut your hair short before giving birth, bring lots of hair ties.
- Hygiene kit
- Maternity Pad (A bigger version of our usual sanitary napkins)
- Breast pump or milk bottles (Be sure to check first if your hospital allows this. Please review "The Rooming-In and Breastfeeding Act of 1992" for more information.
- Sleeping mask (if you will give birth in a public hospital or recovering in a shared room.)
- Going home outfit
BABY
Sometimes first-time parents, especially here in the Philippines, They got so excited that they usually bring more than the essentials. To prevent overpacking, make sure to check this list before buying anything.
-Tie shirts (at least two sets per day)
-Diaper (one pack of about 30pcs newborn diapers)
-Booties and mittens (at least five sets)
-Receiving blankets (at least three pieces)
-Cotton balls for cleaning your nipple before breastfeeding and cleaning your baby's bum between diaper changes.
-Bath soap. Choose the mild one that has no tears formula.
I usually discourage new mothers from bringing pacifiers, feeding bottles, and formula milk. It will somehow affect your chances of producing more breastmilk and diminishes the bond between you and your baby. You might think you may short of milk supply at first but trust me, you will have what's fits your baby's needs.
Reference: https://pcw.gov.ph/republic-act-7600-the-rooming-in-and-breast-feeding-act-of-1992/#:~:text=%E2%80%94%20This%20Act%20shall%20be%20known,SECTION%202.&text=It%20shall%20create%20an%20environment,%2Din%20and%20breast%2Dfeeding.