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Preparing for your baby's arrival and packing your hospital bag is an exciting part of the journey. To help you be well-prepared, here's a comprehensive list of items to bring to the hospital when having a baby.
For the Mom:
1. Medical documents: ID, insurance information, and any necessary hospital paperwork.
2. Birth plan if you have one: Bring multiple copies to share with your healthcare team.
3. Comfortable clothing: Loose, comfortable clothes for labor and recovery. Don't forget nursing bras.
4. Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, soap, chapstick, and any other personal care items you prefer.
5. Slippers or non-slip socks: Keep your feet cozy and safe during your stay.
6. Nursing pads: If you plan to breastfeed, bring a few pairs of nursing pads.- some hospitals will provide these.
7. Snacks: Pack some light, energy-boosting snacks for yourself and your partner. While you’re in labor most hospitals allow clear liquids and hard candies. They will have a variety for you to choose from. At the hospital I work at Gummy bears are considered a clear liquid. Just saying……
8. Entertainment: Books, magazines, or electronic devices to help pass the time during labor and recovery.
9. Comfort items: If you have specific comfort items, such as your fan, pillow or comfy blanket bring them along.
For the Baby:
1. Going-home outfit: Choose a soft, comfortable outfit for your baby's first journey home.
2. Blankets: Pack a few receiving blankets for swaddling and keeping your baby warm.
3. Onesies and sleepers: Pack a few extra outfits for your baby's stay at the hospital if you want. The hospitals will provide T-shirts and blankets for you to use during your stay.
4. Hat and socks: Keep your baby's head and feet warm.
5. Baby book or any other memorabilia you want done in the hospital.
6. Car seat: Install a properly fitting car seat in advance and bring it to the hospital. Move the straps down to the lowest position and make sure it is rear facing.
For Your Partner/Support Person:
1. Change of clothes: Your partner will also need comfortable clothing for their stay.
2. Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, and any personal care items they prefer.
3. Snacks and drinks: Keep your partner energized and hydrated throughout the process.
4. Entertainment: Books, magazines, or electronic devices to help pass the time.
Extras:
1. Camera or smartphone: Capture those precious first moments.
2. Chargers: Don't forget chargers for all your electronic devices.
3. Nursing pillow: If you prefer using a nursing pillow, bring it along.
Remember, this list is a general guide, and you may have specific needs or preferences. The facility that you deliver at usually supplies all pads and items to take care of yourself after delivery. Consider the duration of your stay at the hospital and pack accordingly. It's a good idea to have your hospital bag ready a few weeks before your due date to avoid any last-minute rush. Enjoy this special time and have a safe and smooth delivery!