Should I take my breast pump to the hospital??

Hello,

There typically isn't a need to bring your pump with you or use a pump at all the first few days after birth (unless you are planning on not nursing - which I assume isn't the case since you have a pump)

1) If you for some reason do have a need to pump, hospitals have them available for their patients. Don't worry - they have new, sealed parts that actually touch your body!

2) If you are planning on nursing your child then your baby will take care of the job the pump is designed to do. 

3) If you are planning a vaginal delivery you will likely be out of the hospital before your full milk supply actually comes in (typically 2-4 days after birth). Before that time, your baby will drink colostrum - a form of milk that is packed with the nutrients and antibodies your newborn will need. I.e., there won't be anything for you to pump.

4) If you are planning a c-section and will be in the hospital for 3-4 days AND you are not planning on nursing, you will need to expel your milk to avoid painful swelling in your breasts.  Then you can use the pump the hospital provides you.  

You can always call your hospital or your doctor to see what they recommend.  If you are planning to nurse, nature will take care of itself.  Your body will make what your baby needs.

Congratulations and good luck!