Pregnancy Hospital Bag Checklist – Packing for Labor, Delivery and Postpartum
As your pregnancy is coming closer towards reaching full term it is time to start getting your pregnancy bag together. Since a pregnancy is considered full term between 37-42 weeks, it is wise to have your bag ready by 37 weeks. Even though most mamas won’t deliver before 39 weeks, you never know when your baby is ready to greet the world. It might be convenient to have two bags, one that you will need during labor and another for the postpartum stay as well as the items you will need for your new baby. We put together a checklist to help you pack for the big day.
Labor room checklist
Insurance card and hospital forms
If the hospital or birthing center does not have your information on file, it is a good idea to fill out all paperwork before labor starts and either drop it off during your last trimester or have it with you when you are checking in. It can get quiet uncomfortable filling out forms when you are sitting through contractions.
Birth plan
Be sure to discuss your birth plan with your provider before your delivery. Have several copies on hand for your doula, nurses and whoever else is involved in your delivery.
Birthing Ball
If you are intending on a natural birth, a birthing ball will be a tremendous help getting you through contractions. A pilate ball will do - make sure you bring a pump.
Pillow
Seems like a lot of hospitals have issues with providing laboring women with pillows. There must be a pillow deficit. Even if one is provided, a lot of women prefer to have their own. Put on a colorful pillow case cover so it is easily distinguishable between the hospitals pillow.
Eyeglasses
Remove all jewelry prior to going to the hospital. Most likely the staff will ask you to remove any jewelry you have on as they do not want to be held liable.
Reading Material
Great to have if you are getting induced and have a long stay ahead of you.
Relaxation materials
Music, dvds, anything that helps you stay calm.
Hot Spot Labor Sock or Rice Sock
Find out if your birthing facility will allow you to warm up some rice socks. They bring great relief, especially for back labor.
Slippers, Easy on Shoes
Most birthing centers want you to wear what they provide, either way these items will be handy postpartum.
Lip Balm
Toiletries such as toothbrush, toothpaste, body wash and shampoo
Hard candy
Unless you are birthing in a birth center you will most likely be asked to avoid any food and be limited to ice chips. Hard candy is allowed and tastes great when eaten together with ice chips.
Postpartum checklist
Change of clothing and your going home outfit
Often timed women end up wearing home what they came to hospital in. Keep in mind that when you leave the hospital your tummy will still look as though you are 6 months pregnant.
Camera and camcorder
Phone charger and camera chargers
Phone cards if you will be needing one
Snacks you might like to enjoy
You are very limited to hospital food and vending machine.
Make up, if it is important for you
Nursing bra and breast pads
Baby Bag Checklist
Take me home outfit
Baby socks
Car seat is needed for baby to be allowed to go home
Baby Wipes
Usually hospitals don’t provide wipes, only diapers
Diaper cream
Hospitals provide A&D.
Reader Comments
Thanks of your information. It was very useful to who is pregnancy .Thank you.
Don’t forget about YOUR needs too!!!
Love you!!! Mom