A lot will be going through your head when you go into labor. Having a pre-packed labor and delivery bag ready to go is a great way to ensure you don't forget any of the essentials when you're on the way to the hospital.
Dr. Meisles, OB-GYN at Moreland OB-GYN, shares her necessary, comforting, and helpful delivery items. Watch our vlog below and read our printable hospital bag checklist for labor and delivery. Continue reading our blog for a complete list of all items you could bring to the hospital. Remember, every delivery is different, so pack what feels right for you.
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You're going to fill out a lot of paperwork for the baby, so make sure you have the social security numbers for both you and your partner. Other important documents you’ll need include:
NOTE: If you have pets at home, bring a second blanket for baby. Then, take that blanket home first to familiarize your pets with baby's scent.
It’s important to consider the weather when packing clothes for baby. For example, if it's winter, be sure you have a baby hat, mittens, and a blanket to cover baby because coats cannot be worn in a car seat.
Many moms like to post pictures after delivery to let others know both mom and baby are doing well. Having an outfit picked out can make this moment that much more special and personal.
This is a personal option from mom to mom, as not all mothers choose to breastfeed. For those who do, packing a Boppy or pillow you plan to use for breastfeeding allows you to get hands-on guidance and practice with the lactation consultants while at the hospital.
Many people have a nice camera they want to bring for after-delivery photos, although the camera on a smartphone will also work just fine!
Your phone battery will drain quickly from taking photos and updating friends and family, so be sure you bring a phone charger with an extra-long cord.
Bringing a baby book to the hospital can be helpful if you want to take and document footprints and handprints.
Learn how to recognize the signs of labor and know when it’s time to go to the hospital.
A must! It's dry at the hospital and you'll be happy to have it.
You may be at the hospital for a while; bring your favorite healthy snacks in case you get hungry between meals and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated, especially for those late nights.
Many parents like to give something to the older sibling to help ease their anxiety over the new baby. Older siblings may also want to give something special to their new baby sister or brother.
Read more about how to prepare for your hospital stay when it’s time for baby to arrive.
Giving birth is hard work! You’ll be most comfortable with your hair pulled back and out of your face, so don't forget to pack hair ties and a headband.
Every mother is different, and you'll want to bring what makes you comfortable during this process. Such comforts could include:
Check out our top-rated baby gear here.
A car seat that has been sitting in a car in the hospital parking lot may be too hot or cold for baby. Bringing the car seat to the hospital room will also ensure it’s a comfortable temperature.
If you have a support person accompanying you to the hospital, they may also want to pack a few items just in case. Your support person should pack:
A change of clothes
Basic toiletries (face wash, body wash, shampoo, conditioner, etc.)
Snacks and a reusable water bottle (it is important that they can keep their energy up, too)
Another phone charger (with an extra-long cord if you have it)
Check out our Prenatal Care Guide for more guidance and tips on how to prepare for baby.
If you are planning to have a C-section delivery, you should expect to be at the hospital for a few extra days while you recover from the procedure. Pack extra clothes (for you and baby), toiletries, snacks, and anything else you might need during your extended hospital stay.
One thing to consider is dividing your supplies into two different hospital bags – one with the basic essentials you will need before and immediately after surgery, and another with the supplies you will need for the rest of your stay.
You can leave the second bag in the car for your partner or support person to bring to you once you have been moved to a recovery room. That way, you can lighten your initial load when you first arrive at the hospital.
The items you will pack for your planned C-section are generally the same as other delivery methods. However, there are a few specific items you should make sure to bring with you to ensure a more comfortable recovery experience:
You may not be able to shower right away, so pack some dry shampoo just in case.
When packing extra clothes, choose loose-fitting or C-section pants, comfortable dresses, or skirts that won’t dig into your incision. Also, pack high-wasted underwear, as low-rise may rub at your incision.
Bring a comfortable pillow for your extended stay, and consider a non-white or patterned pillowcase to distinguish it from the hospital pillows.
If you plan to breastfeed, bring a breastfeeding pillow to prop baby up away from your incision.
Pack fiber-heavy snacks to help ease digestion after your C-section. Peppermint herbal tea can also help soothe trapped gas, which is common after surgery.
With your hospital bag packed and ready to go, that’s one less thing to think about as you prepare to welcome your new baby. Taking the time to plan ahead can help you feel calmerm, confident, and more focused when labor begins.
Not sure what to expect next? Learn to recognize the signs of labor and when it’s time to head to the hospital, so you’re fully prepared when the moment arrives.
Whether you’re preparing for labor or navigating recovery, our team is here for you. Contact us or request an appointment to connect with one of our caring providers.
Download our Birth Plan Checklist by clicking the image below to get started!
Every labor and delivery experience is unique, and it’s important to listen to your body and give yourself the care and rest you need after birth. Explore our postpartum care resources below to support your healing and overall well-being.