It’s a good idea to pack your bag a month or two
before your due date, so you don’t have to rush around when it’s time to get to
the hospital.
Here are some ideas for what to pack for labor:
- Back massage aids (tennis ball, hand-held massager, etc.)
- Music (iPod®, laptop, or CDs)
- Hair accessories to pull your hair back (if applicable)
- Lip balm
- Personal toiletries (glasses, contact lenses, toothbrush and toothpaste,
shampoo, deodorant, lotion, etc.)
- Robe
- One or two nightgowns (optional, as the hospital gowns are provided)
- Three or four pairs of cotton underwear
- Slippers
- Socks
- List of names and phone numbers of family and friends to notify about
your news. Cell phone use is allowed.
- A book or magazine
Here’s what your labor coach should pack:
- Money for snacks and meals
- Change of clothes
- Slippers, socks
- Comfortable clothes for sleeping
- Camera and film
- Camcorder
Here’s what you should pack for your baby:
- Car seat — It’s a good idea to install the car seat you will being using
to travel home about one month before your due date. Installing the car seat
early will help you make sure it’s installed properly. Some car dealers and
police or fire stations offer free safety inspections on care seat
installations. Check what’s available in your community.
- T-shirt (not a "onesie," since you don’t want to cover the umbilical cord)
- Sleeper
- Receiving blanket
- Hat
- Clothes to wear home
- Snowsuit (depending on weather conditions)
Note: Everything your baby needs for his or her stay in the hospital will be provided, including diapers and formula.
Other items you should pack for after delivery:
- Nursing bras (2 or 3) or supportive bras (if you aren’t going to be breastfeeding)
- Comfortable clothes to wear home (early pregnancy size)
References
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists
www.acog.org Accessed 5/18/2011
March of Dimes. Get Ready for Labor.
www.marchofdimes.com Accessed 5/18/2011
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This information is provided by the Cleveland Clinic and is not intended to replace the medical advice of your doctor or health care provider. Please consult your health care provider for advice about a specific medical condition. This document was last reviewed on: 5/18/2011...#9678