[jaetee]

Hi,

For those moms who have stayed at Adventist, any suggestions for what to pack? Do they provide towels and toiletries, or should we pack all that? What about bottles of water, diapers for the baby, etc.

Also, did you write up a birth plan, or did you just tell them your intentions regarding breastfeeding, etc.

Advice/suggestions are greatly appreciated.

[kashismum]

You won't need much - most of it is provided. A toothbrush/paste - any special toiletries you want. Pyjamas/nightdress if you prefer your own, but theirs have easy access for bf. That's about all I can think of.
Everything for the baby is provided while s/he's in hospital but you'll need a 'going home' outfit.
I didn't write a birth plan. You'll be asked a few questions on admittance and you'll tell them then that you want to bf. You should put your baby to your breast immediately after birth - or as soon as possible. If there's any delay, tell the nurse you want to feed him/her. Same goes for a C section.
Good luck with everything!

[rani]

Jaetee,

I delivered at the Adventist.

I took everything on this list and used most of it.

http://www.geobaby.com/articles/preg...-hospital-bag/

Do write a birth plan. You don't know what state you'll be when you are admitted and don't want to answer 20 questions. My mid-wife took my birth-plan soon after I settled in and she tried to follow it to a T. Remember to be flexible. I had said I only wanted the gas for pain-relief but once the contractions started I was begging for an epidural.

[jaetee]

Thanks Kashismum and Rani - this is really helpful. :) :)

[Wee Kean]

You may also want to let them know if you wish to breastfeed the baby at night. I told them to wake me up every 3 to 4 hours to BF my daughter or whenever she is hungry or crying. Some of the hospitals prefer to let the mothers rest at night.

You may also want to let them know if you do not wish your child to drink formula or drink from bottle. I asked them to give my daughter water only using spoon feed because I worried my daughter will get nipple confusion. I also insist that they shouldn't give my daughter any formula.

Adventist's food is very delicious..yum yum! The nurses are friendly and helpful.

Enjoy!