What Should I Bring for My Labor and Delivery?

Packing your hospital bag should be an exciting activity, but it can also leave you worried and wondering if you have everything you need. Thankfully, a simple google search will provide many different resources regarding the most important items to have with you. Each list varies slightly, so I have put together a simple list that I give to all my clients. It is a great idea to start preparing your bag with ample time, usually one month prior to your estimated due date.

Here are some suggestions on what to pack:

• Your insurance or hospital-affiliated card/ID

• A hard copy of your birth plan

• Phone & long-cord phone charger

• Hair ties/scrunchies

• Lip balm

• Eye mask for rest

• A pillow or blanket from home

• Massage oil/lotion

• Tennis ball for massage

• Comfy socks and/or slippers

• Water bottle with a straw

• Your favorite music (aka your 'push playlist')

• A robe or front-opening shirt for nursing and skin-to-skin

• A nightgown, pajamas, or comfy sweats

• A nursing bra with no underwire

• Comfy cotton underwear (find some here)

• Open front shirt for your partner (so they can do skin to skin)

• Personal care items (hairbrush, toothbrush, toothpaste, face wash, etc.)

• A going-home outfit for mom (pack loose-fitting clothes — you’ll be around the size you were when you were 6 months pregnant)

• Healthy snacks (granola bars, honey sticks, peanut butter, dried fruit, trail mix)

• Rear-facing car seat

AND.... a good attitude. ☺

Here are a few things your birthing location will likely provide, but you can bring if you desire:

• A going-home outfit for baby

• A baby blanket

• A birth ball/peanut ball

• Maxi pads

If you have a doula, check-in with them to ask what they will be bringing to your birth. Often times, some items overlap and you may not have to bring as much as you originally anticipated. Personally, I always bring hair ties, chapstick, massage oil, earplugs, snacks/tea bags, and a few other things specifically for my clients.

Happy packing!