Packing Your Hospital Delivery Bag
When a to-be-mother nears her due date, she usually has a sudden burst of energy which she uses to do her last-minute preparation for her baby’s arrival. One of the most important things a pregnant woman must never leave undone is the packing of the hospital delivery bag. Labor can come anytime on during due month, and it typically causes panic around the house, so it’s best to have a bag the couple can simply carry and go. Here are some tips:
- Don’t stuff everything in just one big bag. It is highly recommended that you segregate the things you will bring into three: for labor, for baby, and for after delivery. Here’s a quick guide:
- For labor
You will need clothes, toothbrush, toothpaste, towels, washcloths and slippers. Choose the most comfortable clothes to wear. Bring a sweater to keep you warm. In this bag, you may also include a favorite maternity pillow, blanket, and a book to read about labor and delivery. If you have a birth plan, throw it in the bag. Bring a camera and make sure you also have extra batteries or a charger. Don’t forget lip balm – as labor can cause your lips to chap.
- For baby
Although the hospital staff will swaddle your newborn in their sheets, you must bring your baby’s clothes, diapers, bonnets, blankets and bottles. Make sure these are washed, cleaned and dry. The bottles must be sterilized, especially if newly bought. If you’re creating a baby book, bring it so that your newborn can have his or her foot stamp. It may not be in your bag per se, but load the baby car seat into your vehicle.
- For after birthing
You will need nursing bras, underwear, and maternity pads. You may include socks to keep you warm. Be prepared with going home outfits for you, baby and daddy. Finally, don’t forget to pack night gowns, robes and personal hygiene items in this bag, should you run out of them in your labor bag.
Read more of our articles on labor and delivery
Labor and Delivery - Where Would You Like to Give Birth?
Common Signs for Labor and Delivery
Labor and Delivery - Last Minute Planning and Organization
Laws on Labor and Giving Birth in the USA
Pain Management During Labor
Recognizing True from False Labor
What are the Reasons for Inducing Labor
What is a Birth Plan?
What To Do When The Water Breaks
Recognizing Braxton - Hicks Contractions
Touring the Delivery Room: What to Expect
Have a Musical Labor: Sounds That Soothe
Who Should Be Present in the Delivery Room?
Factors to Consider When Setting the Environment for Labor and Delivery
What is a Dad’s Role during Mom’s Labor and Delivery?
Is Eating Really Discouraged While in Labor?
Using Guided Imagery during Labor and Delivery
This is It: Recognizing The True Signs of Labor
Packing Your Hospital Delivery Bag
Birth Trauma: Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
When Your Newborn and You aren’t In Love at First Sight
Myths of Natural Labor Inducing Substances
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