A very common thing I go over in prenatal sessions with families is what to bring with you to the hospital or birth center when the big day comes. I recommend having your bag packed from the 35th week of pregnancy and keep it somewhere you and your birth partner can easily find.
Some common things I recommend having in your birth bag:
Your Birth Preference list and any important maternity notes you may have written.
Mutterpass and all other important documents
Dressing gown Something comfortable! Don’t buy anything new because these can be easily stained.
Flip-flops for the shower.
Slip-on slippers that are easy to get on and off. The hospital floors are usually cold and it's nice to feel comfortable.
Things to help you relax or pass the time, such as podcasts, books, magazines, or a tablet. These can be especially helpful if you are having an induction.
TENS pain relief machine, if you are planning to use one.
Cash and change for snacks you and your birth partner may crave. There are always vending machines and hospital cafeterias for some variation in food.
Socks Big warm socks can be great during labor and after baby comes.
Old nightdress or T-shirt to wear in labor. It will probably get a bit messy, so don’t buy anything special to wear in hospital.
Lip balm Your lips can dry out quickly on a warm labor ward. Preferably a flavorless brand.
Massage oil or lotion if you would like to be massaged during your labor. I recommend something scentless, or one that you area already quite fond of.
Snacks and drinks for you while you are in labou. Fruit, nuts, cereal bars, or anything high in protein is great for labor and a quick snack after baby comes. Hospital food is often not the most delicious so pack anything extra you will miss from home.
Straws or a great water bottle with a straw often during labor it’s too difficult to drink from a cup between contractions. Using a straw can be much easier!
Hairbands or a clip If you have long hair, you may want it tied up.
Phone charger try to bring a charger with an extra long chord. Sometimes the outlet is quite far from your bed.
Music Bring a playlist and mini speaker if you would like to listen to music or soundtracks. Often the internet connections isn't great so having the playlist pre-downloaded onto your phone is a great idea.
Baby blanket or Onesie and warm accessories you might want to bring your baby home in. Most hospitals provide baby’s first clothes, diapers, and sleeping sacks for your stay in the hospital but if you should also bring something to bring your baby home in.
Clothes for you to come home in. You will still wear your maternity clothes for a little while after giving birth. So make sure to pack something comfortable to wear like an easy dress and leggings.
Nursing Bra if you would like to wear a bra for your journey home.
Toiletries like toothbrush/paste, your favorite soap/shampoo, hair brush, and whatever else will help you feel the most at home in a hospital environment.
Hospitals provide things like maternity pads, hospital gowns, diapers, and wipes. If you have sensitivities or wish to bring your own, pack those too.
Take a moment to consider anything you you may feel is important to have with you in the room you will labor and birth in. If you have any questions, or think something else should be added to my list, feel free to get in touch!