Preparing For Labor
10 min | Updated on 15-02-2022 by HappyPreggie
Hello, lovely mother! We've heard you're in your third trimester and that your due date is approaching. It's time to start thinking about preparing that hospital bag, whether your OB has mentioned it or you just know!
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For the first time, packing your hospital bag might seem intimidating – what exactly do you need? What services will the hospital offer? Preparation is essential, and there are a few things to keep in mind when packing, particularly if this is your first pregnancy. You don't want to forget anything important at home, but there's no need to go overboard.
Are you confused as to where to begin? No problem! This is where we can help. We want to help you feel as relaxed as possible when it comes the time to meet your precious one! Refer to our ultimate hospital bag checklist to make sure you have all you need for a pleasant stay at the hospital.
How To Pack Your Hospital Bag?Advice on what to take in your hospital bag, like everything else connected to pregnancy and babies may be overwhelming. You will get countless pregnancy bag checklists out there on the internet and we guarantee you that you might overpack if you go for everything. We suggest you enjoy this time of your baby’s arrival rather than be stressed about forgetting important things.
You’ll be great as long as you have your hospital checklist and something comfy to wear during your labor. Once the baby is here, your spouse may always go out and fetch any forgotten items. The fact is that you'll be so preoccupied with labor that you'll forget about that playlist you made with care or that lip balm you thought was so important.Some families like to have different bags to make it easier to locate certain items. These might be separate bags for the newborn and the mum, or bags for use during and after labor. Keep in mind that you may not be able to unpack alone, so involving your spouse in the packing process might make things go more smoothly on a special day.
So, what exactly do you need at the hospital during and after delivery? We tried to include all of the necessities, as well as some nice-to-haves on a different list. Please scroll all the way down for printable lists to make packing easier. When Should You Pack Your Hospital Bag?
The best answer to this question is, whenever you feel like it! Yes, timing is the key, but when it comes to packing your things, you have some freedom. If your baby arrives before the due date, the conventional guideline is to have your bags packed and ready by 36 weeks or 37 weeks of your pregnancy. If your pregnancy is more high-risk, you might want to start packing a week or two sooner. In general, it is preferable to pack early!
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Hospital Bag Checklist for Mama: For Labor and Delivery
#1 Important Documents like ID and Insurance card
In our ultimate hospital bag checklist, this is the first thing you have to put in your bag. This might contain things like a photo ID, insurance information, and hospital paperwork. Keep copies of your medical records on hand so that your doctors may quickly evaluate your medical history. Make sure you have a copy of your ID, any medical cards, and insurance paperwork with you when you go to the hospital. #2 Your Birth Plan (Optional)
Although you may have discussed your birth plan with your medical team, having a few copies printed and available for your healthcare professionals ensures that everyone has access to it in the case that any last-minute issues arise.
#3 Bathrobe
A soft bathrobe is great for walking around during delivery or afterward if you have to stay in the hospital for a while.
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#4 Socks and Slippers
As you stroll around the hospital ward, you'll want to wear slippers that are comfortable and simple to slide on and off. Bring a pair of flip-flops to wear in the shower. Also don’t forget to pack a few pairs of socks, in case you feel cold.
#5 Cash and Change.
Don’t forget to take some extra money and some changes. You might need the change if you need something from the vending machine or maybe to park your car. The extra money will also help you in an emergency.
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#6 Soft Pillows
Pillows will be provided by your hospital, but they may not be the perfect type for you. If you have a favorite cushion at home, you might want to bring it with you.
#7 Snacks
Because labor may be extremely long at times, you might want to bring some food and drinks with you. However, check with your doctor to see whether you'll be able to eat or drink anything while you're in labor. Also, bring some of your favorite snacks with you to the hospital in case you need some comfort food during your stay.
Try to include something salty, sweet, protein, and healthy/fresh in your bag (dried fruit or carrot sticks, for example). These will also be appreciated by the laboring parent once the baby is born. Most hospitals will not allow individuals to leave and return during Covid-19, so the snacks you bring will be very essential!
Hospital Bag Checklist for Mama: After Delivery
#1 Extra Undies and Nursing Bra
Don’t forget to pack a few pairs of comfortable underwear which are large enough so that you can use them with heavy-duty maternity pads. Carry a couple of nursing bras or other comfy, well-fitting bras with you as well.
#2 Absorbent Maternity Pads
Some will be provided by the hospital, but you should bring a few heavy-duty pregnancy pads just in case. It's common for women to bleed profusely after giving birth, and maternity pads are softer and more absorbent than regular pads. You may need to replace pads every one to two hours at first, but the flow will start to reduce after a few days.
#3 Toiletries
Don't forget to pack these! Hairbrush, normal or dry shampoo, toothbrush and toothpaste, perfume, lip balm, additional hair ties, and face wipes, moisturizer, shower gel are all items you'll need. If you wear contacts or glasses, don't forget to bring extras.
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#4 Comfortable Clothes
This is another important thing to keep in your hospital bag checklist. Pack a nursing bra or tank in your suitcase if you want to breastfeed once the baby is born. Wear your tank top with joggers or lightweight sleep trousers that are soft and loose. Another alternative is to bring a lovely dark-colored PJ set with you. Since labor is an unpredictable process, it's usually a good idea to bring a change of clothing because you never know how long you'll be there.
(Image credits to Canva)
#5 Hand Sanitizer and Face Masks
Bring face masks for both yourself and your spouse for Covid-19. Although hospitals usually have enough hand sanitizer, you may want to bring your own bottle.
#6 Laptop and Smartphone Chargers
It’s very important to bring your gadget chargers along with you to the hospital. Otherwise, you won't be able to use them when in need. Because you never know where the outlet will be, bring an extra-long charging wire with you so you can keep your phone nearby if it needs to be charged.
Hospital Bag Checklist For The Little One
#1 Bodysuits
Because hospital regulations on what infants can wear differ, talk to your healthcare professional ahead of time about what to bring. In terms of accessories and layers, you may need to supplement what the hospital offers. When choosing bodysuits, keep in mind that those that fasten in the front are preferable.
(Image credits to Canva)
#2 Newborn Socks
As newborns are prone to being cold, bring some socks and booties just in case. Your newborn can wear a hat and socks even during skin-to-skin contact.
(Image Credits to Canva)
#3 Warm Blanket
Although the hospital will most likely supply blankets, having one of your own on hand is always a good idea. On the journey home, it may also be utilized to keep your baby warm in the car seat.
#4 Bottles
Pack at least two bottles for the hospital if you intend to bottle-feed from the start. If you want to formula feed, bring some of your favorite brands with you, even if the hospital will most likely offer samples.
#5 Diapers and Wipes
Pack some disposable nappy bags or cloth & wet bags.
#6 Baby’s Going Home Outfits
Because you never know how large or little your kid will be, bring two different clothes in various sizes. Aim for one newborn outfit and one 0-3 months outfit. If the weather permits, bring hats and/or socks.
Some Optional Goodies
#1 Camera
#2 Entertainments
#3 Nipple Cream
#4 Books For Light Reading
#5 Portable Bluetooth Speaker
#6 Massage Oil
You'll be properly prepared for your stay in the hospital if you use our hospital bag checklist. After zipping up your hospital bag, toss it in the car or put it at the front door, and wait patiently for the baby to arrive! We wish you the best of luck, Mama. You can do it!
While you're here and in the mood to get ready for your baby's arrival, you can read9 Natural Simple Remedies Are Believed To Help Reduce Stretch Marks, which will help you after delivery, andBaby Crying Patterns: What Do They Mean? to better understand your baby. If you want to learn more about parenting and childcare visit HappyPreggie's website.
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