Things to Buy Yourself:

1. Breast Pump: Have a breast pump on-hand before the baby is born. Do not buy a cheap model. Your boobs will thank you for it later. Medela is the best way to go. Buy a pump based on how much you will use it. They have models for daily use, occasional use, etc.
   
2. Breast Milk Storage Bags: If you do decide to introduce the bottle and pump milk, you may want to have breast milk storage bags handy. It is also a good idea to have extra bags of milk on-hand in case you do not happen to pump enough milk for the baby the following day.
   
3. Breast pads: Another item to have on-hand before the baby is born. Much easier to buy yourself than to send your husband for after the baby is born. Thuy recommends the washable pads because they are softer and allow your skin to breathe. If you have sensitive skin, try this route.
4. Pads: The hospital usually sends you home with a package or two of pads, but it is good to also have some on-hand. Buy the biggest maxi pad you can find. The bleeding/spotting may continue after the baby's birth longer than you expect.
   
5. Lanolin: Available at Target and most drug stores. Desperately needed for your boobs, especially for first-time Moms. Lanolin will help prevent cracking and dryness once you begin breastfeeding. Also, a little goes a long way, so you do not need to buy a huge tube.
6. Laundry Basket: The baby will generate lots of extra laundry. You may want an extra laundry basket specifically for their clothes.
7. OxiClean: The amount of laundry you do will increase exponentially. Include OxiClean on your grocery list before the baby is born. It is a miracle product. Added to your normal detergent when doing laundry, it has the capability to remove pretty much any stain know to man.

-Francesca