Packing your labor bag and hospital bag for the first time can be rather daunting! Below is a list of the things that you should take with you in your labor and delivery bags.
Hospitals vary in their policies about what you are allowed to bring with you when you have your baby. You may want to take a few items from home, such as your own pillows, to make the place more homely. But be aware that hospitals can be short on space, so don’t go overboard!
Please read: This information is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended to treat, diagnose or prevent any disease. We encourage you to make your own health care decisions in partnership with a qualified health care professional.
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If you’re driving to hospital, you could leave the second bag in the car. If you have a straightforward birth, you may leave hospital on the same day and not need the second bag at all.
Its divided in to two lists as it is easier to have a smaller bag for the labor room and one for later once baby is here and you are settled in your room.
Print this hospital bag checklist for mom and baby off and tick things as they are packed. Leave last minute items highlighted on the list, and stick the list to the top of your bag. For smaller things consider getting new ones and have them packed and ready to go – toiletries, underwear etc.
Hospital bag checklist for mom and baby
Packing your Labor Bag
MUST HAVE:
Digital Camera/video – Charged!
Lip Balm
Hair Clips, Hair Ties, Head Band
Cell Phone – with credit and charger
List of people that need called immediately
Snacks
Drink bottle
Copy of your birth plan
Plenty of change for the parking meter
Clean Pyjamas to put on after labour
NICE TO HAVE:
An off-the-shelf meal for Dad
Portable speakers/mp3 player and music
Warm socks – weirdly feet get cold sometimes
Money for food
Labor dress/top/skirt
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Packing your Hospital Bag
MUST HAVE:
Tooth brush/ toothpaste
Deodorant
Hairbrush
Shampoo/conditioner
Bodywash/soap
3 sets of pyjamas that button at the front
6-10 sets of old/cheap or disposable underwear
Clothes to go home in
Go home outfit for baby
Disposable diapers if you want to use them
Dressing gown
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NICE TO HAVE
Bee balm or Vaseline to prevent meconium sticking to baby’s butt
Pillow from home
Make up for photos
Razor – just in case you feel like shaving now you can see your legs
Slippers
DVD player/Laptop
Snacks to eat when awake all night breastfeeding
Pen and paper/notebook
Magazines
Mesh Disposable Underwear
