1. Don't waste time buying a nice outfit for the hospital. After women give birth, they bleed (like a heavy period). I was much more comfortable in the hospital gown and those undergarments they give you to wear. It is so much easier.
2. There is a pretty good chance you may go number #2 while pushing the baby out! This certainly isn't something to be embarrassed about, it happens naturally when you are bearing down.
3. Don't plan on sleeping while you are in the hospital. Nurses are in and out at all hours. If you're nursing the baby, they will bring her/him in to nurse, etc. Don't be annoyed. Their job is to take care of you and your new little gift, let them.
4. You are charged for all the stuff that is under the baby in the hospital bassinet! I didn't know this the first time. However, the second time around, I took everything I could, including diapers, blankets, nasal aspirator (AKA "The Boogie Sucker"), the water jug, etc. If I am paying for it, I am taking it!
5. You might be modest before you go into the hospital, but it is a good idea to shed it before you check in. Everyone comes to check your "Belly" every hour or so, no shame left at all! Don't be embarrassed, they do this everyday. In addition, their job is to take care of you and your little one on the way, so let them!
6. Although things can get pretty uncomfortable, it all melts away once you see your baby. All the pain is worth it when you hear your baby's first cry and hold them for the first time.
7. Try not to have expectations when you go into the hospital to deliver. Don't have your mind set on having/not having an epidural, giving birth naturally, having a c-section, etc. Remember, it doesn't matter how the baby gets here, as long as it's healthy.
8. I wish I had known to tell friends not to come to the hospital - you are there such a short time and you need all the sleep and help from the nurses you can get!!!! You'll have the rest of your lives to show off your new addition.
9. Use the nurses for all the knowledge that they have. Nurses do this everyday, all day. Therefore, use them for their knowledge. Ask them to show you how to correctly change the babies diaper, give them a bath and feed them. Even if this is not your first child, get a "refresher" course. If there is something that you forget to ask, call them!
10. If you are nursing, ask to meet with a lactation nurse. These nurses specialize in making both mommy and baby successful in breast-feeding. In addition, you may want to ask for some breast shields to take home with you. If you are not nursing, as the nurses the best way to help you feel comfortable when your milk comes in and drying up.
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