The nearer you get to your due date, the more exciting it is to be finally meeting your baby. And the closer you get to meeting your baby, the more important it is to pack a hospital bag before your delivery to make yourself more comfortable during labor and after your little one arrives.
Still thinking about what to pack in your hospital bag for labor? Here are the essentials you should assemble together so there’s no last-minute rush to fill a suitcase between contractions.
HOSPITAL BAG FOR MOM: PRE-DELIVERY
Hospital paperwork, ID, and insurance card. Hospitals require your ID, any medical cards, and insurance documents up front, so make sure you have a copy of these readily available as it can help your healthcare providers review your medical history easily.
Birth plan. If you have discussed your birth plan with your medical team, then having a few copies printed and available for your healthcare providers would help them refer to it in case last-minute questions arise.
Socks. Your feet may get cold during labor.
Slippers and flip-flops. Slippers are comfortable and easy to slip in and out of as you walk around the hospital ward. You could also pack some flip-flops for shower.
Lip balm. Having some lip balm on hand will help keep your lips hydrated and comfortable during labor.
Body lotion or massage oil. A little massage during labor could be relaxing. So, pop some lotion or oil in your hospital bag.
Water spray and sponge. If you start feeling hot during labor, it can help to spray some water on your face and neck, or to sponge some cool water on your forehead.
Comfortable pillows. The pillows provided by the hospital might not be the right kind for you. You may want to bring your favorite pillow along as well.
Relaxing entertainment. Don’t forget to pack some things to help you pass the time like a book, magazines, a tablet with movies or series, or a music player.
Eye mask and earplugs. An eye mask and earplugs could help you get rest in a busy and bright maternity ward during the downtimes of labor.
HOSPITAL BAG FOR MOM: POST-DELIVERY
Nightgowns. Something soft, comfortable, and loose to sleep in during your hospital stay such as a nightgown is a good option. Choose a front-opening style easy to breastfeed.
Heavy-duty maternity pads. These are usually provided by the hospital, but you may want to pack a few heavy-duty maternity pads, just in case.
Intimates. Pack several pairs of comfortable underwear that are large enough to wear over heavy-duty maternity pads, and be prepared with a few nursing bras.
Toiletries. Don’t forget the basics like- tissues, hairbrush, comb, deodorant, toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, hairdryer, hair clips, and hair ties. Also, pack a plastic bag for your dirty clothes.
Cosmetics and skin care products. Pack some moisturizer, as your skin might feel drier than usual.
Phone and charger. Unless you go for a little digital detox during this special time, don’t forget your phone and charger.
Clothes. Besides your nightgown, you might choose to take some comfortable clothes to wear during your hospital stay. Pack an extra outfit to wear home.
Handouts and reference books. The doctors and nurses will be able to give you lots of personalized guidance and you might have also received some handy notes from your prenatal classes or have some reference books about newborns, but you might find these resources more useful once you actually have your newborn in your arms.
Snacks and drinks. Sometimes labor can be very long, so packing some snacks and drinks is a good idea. However, speak to your medical team about whether or not you will be allowed to eat or drink anything during labor, you may consider packing some comfort food during your hospital stay.
HOSPITAL BAG FOR BIRTH PARTNERS
As a birth partner you would also want to pack some things for yourself while supporting the mom in the hospital:
Snacks and drinks. Labor can be a tiring work even for supportive partners. Consider packing some snacks and water, as well as change for the hospital vending machines.
Phone, or video camera, plus chargers and batteries. Phone are the most forgotten devices at these situations. Don’t forget to carry them as they will come in handy to take some happy snaps, or in making some urgent calls if required.
Clothes. Labor is an unpredictable process, so a change of clothes is always a good idea, as you may not be certain about how long the stay will be.
Small pillow. You might require getting a bit of rest during the labor, as well.
Entertainment. Few things like books, a tablet for watching movies or series, and a music player are all good options.
HOSPITAL BAG FOR THE NEW BORN
Bodysuits. Bodysuits that fasten up at the front, could be really handy. You may need to add more clothes to what the hospital provides in terms of accessories and layers.
Socks and booties. Newborns can get cold easily and so some socks and booties would protect them. Even while making skin-to-skin contact, your newborn should wear a hat and socks.
Blanket. The hospital is likely to provide blankets, but a blanket of your own is always good to have during skin-to-skin contact. It could be used to keep the newborn warm on the way home.
Going-home outfit. Consider the weather conditions: a bodysuit, booties, and baby hats could be fine during the warmer months, but in winter, don’t forget to pack mittens and a jacket.
With this hospital bag checklist, you’ll be absolutely ready for your time in the hospital. Read more about the signs of labor, which includes things like breaking of water or seeing the mucus plug discharge. Another way to check whether you are in labor is to time your contractions, check if they are getting stronger, longer, and more frequent. Connect with your healthcare provider if you notice any of the signs of labor ? they’ll be able to let you know when it’s time to grab your hospital bag and be on your way. Good luck!
