For the trip to the hospital, you don't want to leave the packing until your water breaks and the time between your contractions is one minute.
Pack a bag long before you expect to be rushing out the door and you're much more likely to have what you need.
For labor
- Your birth plan
- A watch that counts seconds for timing contractions
- A bathrobe, nightgown and slippers or socks
- Eyeglasses (contact lenses may start to hurt and will be taken out during any surgery)
- Toothbrush and toothpaste (most hospitals will have these)
- Hair ties or barrettes
- Lip balm for dry lips
- A colored washcloth to wipe down with (a white one might get mixed up with the hospital laundry)
- Any birthing book you may want
- Favorite music
- Camera
- Stuff for massage, like oils, lotions and tennis balls or a plastic rolling pin to roll across your lower back
- Suckers or hard candy
- Special snacks or drinks you may want during childbirth
- A pad and pencil to write down any questions
- Anything else to make you feel good, such as photos or a favorite pillow
- A phone card for keeping in touch with out-of-town family and friends (you often can't use a mobile phone in a hospital)
After the baby is born
For you:
- Nursing bras and pads
- Sanitary napkins/pads
- Clean nightgown and underwear
- Slippers
- Clothes to wear home (bring something that fit loosely when you were about six months pregnant)
- A book or magazine for both you and your partner
- More snacks
For the baby:
- Car seat
- Going-home outfit (a sleeper with legs so that the baby will be warm and cozy)
- Receiving blanket
- Diapers
- Socks or booties
- Cap
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