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Sure, you’ve packed the essentials. That adorable Kente print onesie? Check. A stack of nappies taller than a jollof rice pot? Double-check. But wait! Some crucial items often slip through the cracks when preparing your pregnancy bag. These overlooked gems can turn your hospital stay from daunting to downright manageable
It’s 2 AM, and Adanna’s belly feels like it’s about to pop. Her husband, Chidi, is running around like a headless chicken, tossing stuff into a big blue suitcase. His hands are shaking so much, you’d think he was trying to juggle eggs.
“Honey, where’s the baby blanket?” Chidi yells, his eyes wide with panic. 
“It’s on the dresser, right next to your brain!” Adanna shouts back, holding her belly and breathing heavily.
Chidi grabs the soft yellow blanket, tiny white mittens, and a mountain of diapers. They zoom out the door faster than a cheetah chasing its dinner.
But uh-oh! They forgot some super important stuff.
Fast forward 12 hours. Adanna is holding their cute baby girl, Zina. But Mama ain’t happy. Her lips are drier than the Sahara desert, her feet feel like ice cubes on the shiny hospital floor, and poor Chidi looks like a zombie, his tummy grumbling louder than a lion’s roar.
“Chidi,” Adanna whispers, “I’d trade this baby for a lip balm right now.”
Chidi’s eyes pop open. “Don’t say that! She might hear you and remember it forever!”
They both laugh, but inside they’re crying a little. If only they’d packed some lip balm, fuzzy socks, and a big bag of chips!
Lots of soon-to-be parents end up like Adanna and Chidi, thinking only about baby stuff and forgetting they need things too. But don’t worry! We’ve got a list of 9 super important things you shouldn’t forget to pack. These magic items will make your hospital stay way better, whether you’re pushing for hours or cuddling your new little potato.
So grab a pen and paper, ’cause it’s time to pack like a boss. Your tired, hungry, future self will want to hug you for being so smart. Let’s check out the must-have stuff that Adanna and Chidi wish they’d remembered, and that you’ll be super glad you packed!
1. Flip-flops
Hospital floors are no joke. Pack a pair of sturdy rubber flip-flops. Think Havaianas or a similar brand that won’t fall apart. They’re perfect for shuffling to the bathroom or braving the hospital shower. Choose a dark color to hide any stains. Your swollen feet will thank you, and you’ll have a barrier between you and those mystery floor germs.
2. Extension cord
Hospital rooms are notoriously short on outlets. Bring a 6-foot extension cord with at least three outlets. This lets you charge your phone, run your breast pump, and keep a night light on for those 3 AM feeds. Pro tip: Wrap a bit of brightly colored tape around it so it doesn’t get left behind.
3. Lip balm
Labor is thirsty work, and your lips will suffer. Pack a tube of Shea Moisture’s 100% Shea Butter Lip Balm. It’s intensely moisturizing and free from harsh chemicals. Apply it liberally during labor – your parched lips will feel instant relief.
4. Snacks for your partner
Don’t let your support person go hungry! Pack a variety of filling snacks. Try some roasted groundnuts, a few protein bars, and maybe some dried mango slices for a taste of home. A well-fed partner is a helpful partner, especially during a marathon labor session.
5. Warm socks
Hospital rooms can be freezing. Pack a pair of thick, non-slip socks. Look for ones with grips on the soles, like the Pembrook Non-Skid Hospital Socks. They’ll keep your feet toasty during labor and recovery, and prevent any slips on those shiny hospital floors.
6. Headband or hair ties
Labor is messy. Keep your hair under control with a wide, soft headband or several strong hair ties. The Kitsch Microfiber Headband is perfect – it’s gentle on your edges and keeps every strand in place. You’ll want your hair secure when things get intense.
7. Your toilet paper
Hospital toilet paper is often rough and thin. Bring a roll of soft, quilted toilet paper from home. Cottonelle Ultra ComfortCare is a good choice – it’s gentle on sensitive areas and won’t disintegrate easily. Your postpartum self will be incredibly grateful.
8. Notebook and pen
There’s so much to remember in those first days. Pack a small, hardcover notebook and a reliable pen. The Moleskine Classic Notebook (pocket size) is perfect. Use it to track feeding times, jot down questions for the midwife, or even start your birth story. It’s your lifeline when sleep deprivation hits hard.
9. A small fan
Hospitals can get stuffy. A small, USB-rechargeable fan like the VersionTECH Mini Handheld Fan is a game-changer. It’s quiet enough not to disturb the baby, but powerful enough to keep you cool during labor and those postpartum night sweats. The 3-speed settings let you adjust as needed.
Conclusion: 9 Often-Overlooked Items Every Pregnancy Bag Needs
Your pregnancy bag isn’t just about baby essentials. It’s about making you, the superstar mama, as comfortable as possible during this life-changing event. These often-overlooked items can transform your hospital experience from bearable to almost enjoyable.
So, all you incredible African mamas far from home, toss these extras in your pregnancy bag. When the big day arrives and you’re cool, comfortable, and prepared for anything, you’ll be thanking your past self for being so clever. Now go forth and rock that hospital stay like the queen you are!
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