Here is a handy list of things to take with you in your hospital bag when you go to the hospital or birth center when you give birth! I recommend that you pack a bag for labor and birth and leave a separate packed bag for postpartum in the car or with someone else. This prevents you from dragging all of your stuff around the labor and birth wing!
Your Labor Bag
- Tooth brushes for everyone and Tooth paste
- Any reference book or pamphlet you might need (I prefer The Birth Partner.)
- Pillows from home (Use colored cases to distinguish from your birth place's linens)
- Music you would like (You may need to provide your own iPod, CD Player or Tape Player)
- Camera with film and batteries
- Camcorder with charged batteries and accessories
- Signed copies of your birth plan
- Water bottles for ice
- Your own wash cloths, colored ones work better
- Waterproof pads for the car ride
- Any clothes of your own that you wish to wear
- List of people to call after the baby is born (include childbirth educator)
- Lip Balm
- Massage tools (Oils, massager, etc.)
- Change of clothes for partner, including swim trunks for shower or pool
- Baby Book for getting the foot prints done by the nurse when she does the paperwork
- Focal Point (If you want one)
- Socks for mom
- Special foods or drinks
- Suckers or hard candy
- Snacks for labor support
- Calling Card for Long Distance Calls
- Anything else you think you can use (Candles, pictures, etc.)
Your Postpartum Bag
- Nursing bras and pads (preferably the washable, soft ones.)
- Breastfeeding book
- Going home outfit for baby
- Blanket for Baby
- More film (Though you can buy this for higher prices in most gift shops.)
- Another change of clothes for partner and any toiletries needed
- Your own personal night gown, robe (They will get dirty!)
- Personal Hygiene items (shampoo, your own pads, etc.)
- Number of La Leche League or other breastfeeding support
- Number of diaper service (if you need to arrange for delivery)
- Car Seat with instructions
- Going home outfit for mom (You will still be look to be about 6 months pregnant. Most women wear the clothes that they wore to the hospital, some bring nursing shirts.)
- Birth Announcements, stamps, envelopes
You might also consider packing a bag for dad too.
