How to Pack for Labor or Birthing Room at Hospital

I wish I had found a list of things to pack for when I went into labor. I guessed at what to pack for the hospital overnight stay and labor. I found that I packed a bunch of things I didn't need and didn't pack some things I could have used. Hopefully my list will help you to pack a better overnight bag for when you go into labor.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• overnight bag
• infant car seat
• see article for list of stuff to pack

1. 
    
   slippers are great

   Slippers!
   
   I forgot these so I used the slipper socks they give you in the hospital. Until my doctor told me not to use the slipper socks because they can cause swelling where the elastic is around the ankles.

2. Copy or two of your birthing plan.

3. 
    
   optional but nice to have

   A robe from home, make sure it is a robe that you don't care if it gets stained.

4. 
    
   very important!

   Chapstick or Lip balm.
   
   Your lips can get very dry during labor. Lip balm saved me from cracked, chapped lips.

5. Extra roomy underwear, a few pairs.

6. Maternity pants and a long dress.
   Your stomach doesn't magically disappear after you give birth so you will still need your maternity pants. I suggest bringing a roomy long dress too in case you end up getting a C-section and wearing a waistband of any kind is a bad idea.

7. 
    
   to get the tangles out after delivery

   A hairbrush and hair ties.
   You might want to teach your husband or boyfriend how to put your hair back for you.

8. Deodorant, toothbrush, toothpaste.
   The hospital does usually provide some toiletries but bringing your own ensures you will have them.

9. 
    
   can't leave without one

   An infant car seat.
   Most hospitals will not let you leave the hospital without one.

10. 
     
    better than just using your camera phone

    A digital or disposable camera.
    Don't use the flash on the newborns eyes though. Just doesn't seem like a good idea to me.

11. 
     
    ipods are great for music and movies

    Entertainment for the postpartum part of your stay.
    The hospital I was in charged extra to watch TV. Bring cards, a portable DVD player, a book, music, video game player, etc...

12. A copy or two of your health records from during your pregnancy.

13. Nail file

14. Going home clothes for the baby.
    Take the weather into account. Dress the baby in layers. Have a baby hat even if its warm out, a light hat. Bring a couple sized shirts that have easy open fronts and the fold over the hand gloves to prevent scratching.

15. 
     
    have diapers ready at home

    A couple diapers even though the hospital will provide some.

16. Healthy snacks if you get hungry in the middle of the night.

17. A change of clothes for your spouse or coach if they are staying overnight with you.

18. 
     
    cocoa butter lotion is awesome!

    Body lotion. I like cocoa butter and it helps with stretch marks and discoloration.

[jaredsgirl]

on 2/5/2009 Ohhh I so wish I had this list when I was pregnant. Great ideas for packing! 5*

[healthymomof5]

on 2/5/2009 This is great for anyone that needs a list!5*

[goodselfme]

on 2/5/2009 Wonderful list of things to make sure to take to the birthing room hospital event. 5*