A handy list of all your hospital bag essentials for mom, baby, and birthing partner so you will be fully prepared when you go into labor.
Getting Organized For Labor And Delivery
Once you are in your third trimester you will soon need to think about packing your hospital bag for labor and delivery.
It is important to be organized and well prepared as you never know when your labor will begin.
This handy list of all the essentials you will need for your hospital stay should ensure you are well prepared.
Hospital Bag Tips And Tricks
- You should pack your hospital bag essentials when you are around 35 weeks.
- Keep the bag in the car or hallway so you don’t have to go looking for it when the time comes.
- Make sure you have a list of everything you need so you can tick them off as you pack.
- It may help to pack separate bags for you and baby so you can easily find what you need.
- Check with your hospital or birthing centre what personal items you are allowed to take with you.
- If you have decided to give birth at home I still recommend packing a bag for the hospital just in case.
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Your Hospital Bag Essentials
Mom
- Birth Plan
- Any Medical Notes
- Your Medication – if you are taking any
- Phone and Charger
- List Of Important Phone Numbers
- Snacks and Drinks – for during labor and after the birth
- Music – you may have a particular playlist you wish to listen to.
- Birthing Ball – or any other equipment you wish to take
- Favorite Pillow – it is important you feel as comfortable as possible.
- Tens Machine – if you require one to help with the pain of your contractions
- Hot Water Bottle – to help with the pain
- Nightdress or Pyjamas – clothing that opens at the front is helpful if you are breastfeeding
- Robe
- Socks and Slippers
- Hairbands
- Lip balm
- Make Up
- Toiletries
- A Towel
- Going Home Clothes – it is best to pack something loose and comfortable
- Postpartum Underwear – at least 5 or 6 pairs
- Maxi Pads
- Breast Pads – for any leakage
- Nursing Bra
- Nipple Cream
Baby
Everything you will need for baby after the birth. Don’t forget to pack a few changes of clothes.
- Baby Blanket
- Muslin Cloths
- Car Seat – ensure this is all properly fitted beforehand
- Vests
- Sleepsuits
- Mittens
- A Hat
- Booties
- Clothes For Going Home
- Outer Clothing
- Diapers – cloth or disposable, whichever you prefer
- Wipes or Cotton Balls
- Sterile Bottles If Needed
Related Labor And Delivery Posts
Hospital Tour Questions For Pregnant Moms
How To Have An Easier Labor And Delivery
What You Need To Do In Preparation For Labor
Birthing Partner
Your birthing partner should also have a bag packed ready to go.
- A Change Of Clothes – You don’t know how long the labor is going to last
- Toiletries – for freshening up
- Pillow and Blanket – just in case there is time for a nap
- Comfortable Shoes. There may be an awful lot of pacing.
- Phone and Charger
- Camera
- Books, Magazines to help pass the time.
- Snacks. They will probably get hungry.
- Spare Change – for parking or any small items you may need to buy
To Help You:
- Handheld Fan – you may need them to cool you down
- Water Spray
- Bendy Straws – to help you drink
- Massage Oil
These are your hospital bag essentials. Make sure you take your checklist with you so that nothing gets left behind.
Hospital Bag Essentials For Labor and Delivery
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