What You Need In Hospital before Deliver

There are some hospital delivery essentials to guarantee your baby’s comfort and preparation for arrival.

• Hospitals Bag

Make sure you and your child have the essentials in a bag. This should include toiletries, snacks, clothes for both you and the baby, and other comfort items you may need during labor and recovery.

• Medications

Contains vitamins. It may take some time for the hospital pharmacy to authorize any vitamins or medications you bring from home. Check with your doctor if you must bring your own prescription and get permission from the hospital ahead of time, or if the hospital will provide all the medication you need.

• Comfort Items

For example, a misting fan, essential oil diffuser, or eye pillow may be helpful (ask your hospital or birth center if this is allowed).

• Birth Plan

Bring copies of your birth plan for your medical team to see. By doing this, you can ensure that during labor and delivery, your preferences are acknowledged and respected.

• Phone and Charger

Make sure you have your phone and charger with you during this special time, unless you decide to take a digital detox. It allows you to capture those first few photos, post your good news on social media and keep in touch with loved ones.

• Comfortable Clothing

There are women who spend their entire hospital stay in a hospital gown. That’s totally fine. It is also acceptable if you would like to change into some of your loose clothing. Consider wearing loungewear, such as easy-access nursing dresses, dark-colored yoga pants, and button-down or nursing shirts.

• Toiletries

Include hair ties, lip balm, deodorant, toothbrushes and toothpaste, brushes and combs, and makeup (if using). You’ll want to bring your own soap, shampoo, and lotion, though hospitals usually provide these. In bathrooms with little counter space, a hanging toiletry bag can be useful.

• Drinks and Snacks

Since labor can often last a very long time, you may want to bring some snacks and drinks. However, check with your medical team if you will be allowed to consume any foods or liquids during labor. Additionally, consider bringing along some of your favorite post-labor snacks, as you’ll want some comfort food while you’re in the hospital.

• Breastfeeding Gear

 Bring nursing bras, breast pads, and nipple cream to ease any soreness if you decide to breastfeed.

• Baby Essentials

Remember to bring clothes, wipes, diapers and blankets for your new baby.

• Car Seat

Make sure your car seat is installed and ready to go before your trip to the hospital. Without one, you can’t drive your child home! Make sure your child is properly strapped into the car seat and facing backwards.

• Entertainment

Bring a novel, magazine, or other entertainment to help pass the time during labor, as it can be unpredictable and sometimes long.

Conclusion

If your healthcare professional or hospital recommends any special equipment, be sure to ask about them. It’s also a good idea to pack your belongings well in advance of your due date, to save yourself last-minute hassles.