A Hospital Bag Checklist for a super-prepared mom to be! What to pack in the hospital bag for baby and mom. Prepare your labor bag for a hospital birth
When To Pack A Hospital Bag?
The best time to start packing your hospital bag for delivery is around 34 weeks as you can expect the labor at any time from the 37th week.
However, if the doctor suspects an early delivery due to various reasons, then you can pack the things much earlier.
Pack your bag in advance so that you do not miss anything.
For You
Here are the things you must carry in your delivery bag:
• Documents: Neatly file your ID proof, insurance card, birth plans and hospital forms, and keep them handy.
• Dresses: Pack loose, comfortable maternity clothes to wear in the hospital. While going to the hospital, wear an old, loose-fitting dress. Do not buy new ones for this because the dress would get stained with blood and fluids during labor. Also, get dresses with front buttons to unbutton them easily for breastfeeding the baby after delivery.
• Footwear: Pack slip-ons as they are comfortable to wear during the hospital stay. Take a pair of socks too, to keep your feet warm.
• Lip balm: During labor, the warm condition inside the labor room can make your lips dry out. Post delivery, you may use the lip balm to moisten your lips.
• Massage oil: It is good to carry a massage lotion or oil, which your partner may use to massage your back and legs during contraction pains.
• Snacks and drinks: Keep sugar-free candies or lozenges handy. This will help prevent your mouth from drying out. Isotonic drinks, too, can keep you going during the labor.
• Birth ball: It is a great birth tool to support labor. Carry one with you along with the pump so that your partner can inflate it.
• Pillows: Extra pillows make you feel comfortable while relaxing between contractions. Carry a breastfeeding pillow as well.
• Undergarments and sanitary pads: Pack extra pairs of undergarments and packs of sanitary pads, as you would need them in plenty during your stay in the hospital.
• Nursing aids: Carry nursing bras and pads that make breastfeeding comfortable for you. The nursing bras have an opening in the front of each breast, while the pads prevent the breastmilk from leaking.
• Accessories: These are items such as hair clips, hair bands, bath towel, and moisturizers that you need every day. Add eye masks and earplugs to the list as they help you sleep while waiting for your delivery.
• Toiletries: Keep toothbrush, toothpaste, and soap in your bag. Place all these items in a box that is easily accessible.
• Glasses and lenses: If you have glasses or lenses, then do leave a spare pair in the bag, as you might miss those at the last minute.
• Gadgets: Keep your mobile and charger in the bag. You can also take your tablet and portable MP3 player.
• Books: If you like reading books, keep an interesting one in the bag. Reading the book can help you divert yourself from the pain.
The one person who will surely accompany you to the hospital is your partner. Therefore, he, too, needs to keep his bags ready.
For Your Baby
The VIP is arriving and they need to be taken care of well. Here is the list of items you need to pack for your baby:
• Vests and bodysuits.
• A packet of diapers; your baby will need them from the time they arrive.
• Baby blanket to keep your little one warm.
• Muslin cloths to wipe your baby when he/she possets. Possessing is normal in all babies as it is a way of bringing out the undigested milk through the mouth.
• Baby car seat if you are planning to leave the hospital in a car.
keeping your hospital bag ready gives you a sense of relief that you have kept all the necessary things in place. It is one thing less to worry about while rushing to the hospital. Moreover, your partner can stay by your side when you need him the most rather than running around to gather things. Stay prepared as you can expect your angel at any time.
Have the experience to share? Let us know in the comments section.