Labor and Delivery

As you approach the end of your pregnancy term, it is only natural for your mind to start thinking about the labor and delivery process. This can often be a worrying time, as you start to think about what might go wrong and possible complications. Obviously, this is not the best mind set to have; instead you should be focusing on conserving energy and preparing properly for labor and delivery.

One thing to take your mind off possible complications is to make sure that you have packed your labor and delivery bag correctly, so we thought it would be a good idea to list the types of things you should be packing.

During labor and delivery

• Most women prefer a comfortable night dress or baggy t-shirt to wear during labor and delivery. Try to wear items made from cotton.
  
  
• Remember to pack in preparation for an overnight stay, so items such as tooth brush, soap and washing goods are essential.
  
  
• Pack a face cloth and small sponges. These can be used during the labor and delivery procedure in order to keep you cool, your birthing partner could be responsible for this.
  
  
• Lip balm or moisturizer for sore or dry lips
  
  
• Depending on your preference, you may want to pack essential oils, talcum powder and body oils to use during calming massages.
  
  
• The labor and delivery process can take several hours or more so remember to pack some items to help take your mind of it, such as a portable CD player or MP3 player.
  
  
• Do not forget to pack a camera, so often a special moment has been forgotten because a camera was not packed. Make sure you have sufficient film and flash available.
  
  
• A small bottle of Witch Hazel to help relieve the area where any stitches were required
  
  
• Snacks and nourishment. If possible include sugary foods such as chocolate to keep your blood sugar levels high. Also pack energy drinks and water for during and after labor and delivery.

Important do not forget

• It's very important that you plan your journey home. If you are being picked up by a friend or relative, make sure they have a baby car seat.
  
  
• Ensure that you pack sufficient amount of clothes for you and your baby. Often it is better to have too much than not enough. Small babies have a habit of being messy when they are first born, ensure that you have more than enough nappies.
  
  
• Your mobile phone or a list of telephone numbers should you wish to contact people.
  
  
• Sanitary pads and toiletry bag.
  
  
• A nightgown and robe should you stay overnight at the hospital

As you can see, there is a sufficient list of things to remember prior to going into the labor and delivery process. If you think it would be helpful, print off this page and put a tick to each reminder when it is packed. Also, you should make sure that your labor and delivery bag is packed a good two weeks before the due date. Place it someone easy to see on the way to the front door, just in case you have to make a mad dash to the hospital.

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