You are in your third trimester, the delivery date is fast approaching, and all the books and your doctor are telling you to pack the bag you will take to the hospital for the delivery. But what exactly should be in that bag?

Here is a list of things to consider taking with you for your trip to the hospital to have your baby.

For You:

  • A nightgown, or over-sized shirt to where during labor and delivery. Although a hospital gown will be provided you may feel more comfortable wearing something of your own.
  • Socks, you gotta keep those tootsies warm!!
  • Washcloth and towels so you can clean up after the delivery and before you leave to the hospital to go home. The hospital may provide some, but it is good idea to be prepared just in case they don’t.
  • Slippers so you can wander around the maternity ward both during labor and after the delivery when you are sick of lying in the hospital bed.
  • A few nightgowns to wear during your stay in the hospital after the baby arrives. If you are going to be nursing be sure to pack nightgowns that are designed for nursing mothers.
  • A robe, again for those walks around the hospital, and in case your room is cold.
  • Several pairs of underpants, bring extras.
  • A pack of large, self-adhesive sanitary pads as you may not like the ones provided by the hospital.
  • Toiletries, including shampoo, soap, toothbrush & toothpaste, a hairbrush, plus any other toiletries you would like to have with you.
  • The phone numbers of all the people you want to call about the arrival of the baby.
  • Any important paperwork that you need to have with you for the hospital stay, like insurance forms, pre-registration forms, etc.
  • A pillow. Your own pillow will be more comfortable than the flat ones provided at the hospital.
  • Reading material, cds, and other items to help keep you and your partner occupied during your stay.
  • A change of clothes to wear home from the hospital, you will want them to be loose fitting and comfortable.

For The Baby:

  • A receiving blanket, you might want a couple of these just in case the baby spits up on the ride home.
  • An outfit to wear home from the hospital, be sure it is appropriate for the temperature outside.
  • Diapers, most hospitals provide some, but just to be safe bring your own
  • A warm blanket if it is cold outside
  • A carseat (the hospital will not let you take the baby home without one)

You will want to have your bags packed early, just in case the baby decides to come early. If you are planning to do a hospital tour it would probably be a good idea to ask the hospital what they provide for both you and the baby so we can adjust your packing list accordingly. You can also ask your doctor or midwife for suggestions. Most pregnancy books include suggestions as well.

Care to comment