What to Pack for the Hospital When Having a Baby

When a pregnant woman gets to the third trimester, around the seventh or eighth month, some thought needs to be given about the hospital stay that is soon to come. It will help if a bag is already packed and within easy reach for when the contractions start and it is time to head to the hospital. The bag should be packed with a few essentials for the mom-to-be and some for the new baby.

Things You'll Need

• Nightgown
• Slippers
• Robe
• Socks
• Baby outfit
• Toiletries
• Camera
• Video camera

Instructions

1. Put a comfortable pair of slippers in your suitcase. You will be encouraged to walk around after the birth of your new baby. The hospital floors may be cold to bare feet.

2. Pack a nightgown, robe and a pair of socks. You could also use the back-opened gowns that the hospital provides, but why bother if you have a comfy night gown and robe? Some women’s feet get very cold during labor and wearing a pair of socks helps.

3. Bring any toiletries you think you might need such as hairbrush or comb, makeup, deodorant and toothbrush.

4. Add an outfit for your newborn baby. Pick an especially pretty or cute outfit to take your baby home in. If you can’t decide which outfit to bring, then take more than one. If you don’t already know what the sex of your baby will be, then bring an outfit for a baby boy and one for a baby girl.

5. Pack a digital camera or a video camera. If you are so inclined, then you can record the birth of your baby with either a video or digital camera. The first pictures of your baby, whether professionally done before leaving the hospital or taken by your or your spouse will be worth more than money can buy.

Tips & Warnings

• Most hospitals will provide diapers, wipes and formula while the baby is there in the nursery. Some hospitals even send a few of the items home with you. You could also pack a book or some magazines if you want. Sometimes, reading will take your mind off of the discomfort of early labor for a few minutes. Bring your cell phone so you can let your family and friends know that the big day has come. You might also want to bring along some nursing pads, even if you are not nursing. There will be leakage from your breast and nursing pads are good for absorbing this instead of your bra.

• Do not forget to bring batteries or a charger for the cell phone or camera. It won’t do you a lot of good without something to power them with!

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish