You're likely feeling anxious as your child's birth approaches. This is normal. To give yourself some peace of mind, pack a bag ahead of time. Do this about 1 month ahead of your estimated delivery date. Here is a list of things to bring:
- Personal care items (toothbrush, hair brush, lip balm, lotion, mints or breath strips, and shampoo)
- Eyeglasses (if you wear them)
- Nightgown (if you plan to breastfeed, pack one that allows for nursing)
- Nursing bra if you plan to breastfeed
- Nursing pillow and sleeping pillow
- Bathrobe and slippers
- Many hospitals provide maternity underwear, but you may want to bring underwear (or adult diapers) that can be soiled because you will have bleeding after delivery
- Comfortable clothes for you to wear home (sweatpants, yoga pants, or other stretchable clothes). Your pre-pregnancy clothes may not fit after delivery.
- Clothes for your baby to wear home
- Smart phone, camera, or video recorder
- Personal music player and headphones
- Coins for vending machines
- List of names of people to call after the birth
- Cell phone and charger
- Insurance information and any other paperwork needed for your hospital stay
- A list of baby names you are thinking of
- An infant, rear-facing car seat for bringing home your baby (this is required by law)
Add anything else that you don't want to forget:
_____________________________________
_____________________________________
_____________________________________
_____________________________________
_____________________________________
_____________________________________
_____________________________________
Featured in
OB/GYN
Find a DoctorRelated Articles
TOLAC (Trial of Labor After Cesarean Delivery)
You've had a cesarean section birth. Now you may wonder if you can try vaginal birth with your next baby. It's likely you can. The attempt to have a vaginal birth after cesarean delivery is called a trial of labor after cesarean delivery (TOLAC). It's often a success. To find out more about TOLAC, read this health sheet.
Labor and Childbirth: Your Body Prepares
Learn about the physical changes that often signal that your baby will soon be born.
Health Risks with Multiple Pregnancy
Most women who are pregnant with 2 or more babies have healthy pregnancies. But, the risk of complications is higher than with a single baby. If you are carrying multiples, know the warning signs of possible problems.
Back Pain During Pregnancy: Moving Safely
Learning the correct ways to bend, lift, and carry objects may help relieve back strain. It will also help you protect your back after your baby is born. Remember, if you’re having trouble protecting your back, it’s OK to ask the people around you for help!
