Pregnancy

What to Pack for the Hostpital

The big day is almost here and you are ready to prepare your suitcase for the trip to the hospital and the birth of your new baby. You may wonder though, what you should take. Here is a checklist of items that most mothers-to-be decided was the most important.

First, you should really have two bags, one for the items that you will need during labor and delivery and one for after the baby is born.

For labor and delivery:

• Your insurance information and all other hospital paperwork, completed
• Your birthing plan
• If you wear glasses, remember them.
• Hair accessories for pulling your hair back from your face.
• Moisturizer for your lips
• You may wish to wear your own nightgown, however, during labor and delivery most women prefer to wear the ones the hospital provide
• Bathrobe, slippers, and a couple of pairs of socks
• Something to read, especially during the beginning, nothing in-depth – maybe a magazine with lots of pictures - just to help you relax.
• Lotion
• Your own pillow if you desire
• Music and mp3 player, cassette player, etc

What your coach should pack for labor and delivery:

•   Money for snack machines, coke machines and parking
• Toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, deodorant, hair brush or comb, or other toiletries
•   At least one change of clothing
• Something to read
• Camera or video camera – Do not forget the film and batteries

What you should pack for after delivery:

• One or two nightgowns, bathrobe, slippers, socks
• Snacks – more than likely, you will find yourself pretty hunger and it will be in between meals and you will have to wait until mealtime unless you bring something to munch on.
• Nursing bra or breast pads
• Maternity underwear – however the hospital will provide a few
•   Sanitary pads - however the hospital will provide a few
• Toothbrush, toothpaste, hairbrush, hairspray, other hair accessories, chapstick or lip balm, makeup, soap, shampoo, lotion, and any other toiletries you may want
• Cell phone, address book
• An outfit for you to wear home, more than likely you will still need to wear your maternity clothing. However, you can bring one maternity outfit and one of your regular outfits that are larger and comfortable.

You will also have to pack items for your new baby, which include:

• Your infant car seat
• Outfit for the baby to wear home
• Receiving blanket
• Booties or socks
• A cap if you would like
• Infant nail clippers

Now, a few things you should not bring along to the hospital or birthing center include a lot of cash, credit cards, and jewelry.