While you may not be packing for a fun vacation, packing your bag for your hospital delivery is still an exciting task for most pregnant women. It is a sign that you’ll meet your baby very soon. While packing your hospital bags shouldn’t be a major or taxing chore, it shouldn’t be left to the last minute. To keep it stress-free and fun, it is best to have your hospital bag ready to go by 36 weeks of pregnancy – just in case you go into labor early.
What to Plan For
There is nothing in your hospital bag that you absolutely NEED or must have to birth your baby. The doctor only needs you. However, bringing the right items from home can make your labor and delivery and overall hospital stay much more enjoyable. There may be some uncomfortable moments as well as long periods of waiting to plan for.
In general, we recommend that you plan for a hospital day of 2 to 3 days. Bring more than a purse but don’t haul your large suitcase. A simple weekend travel bag is ideal. You are not bringing everything; Instead, choose just the important items that can make you (and your baby’s) stay more pleasant.
A Checklist for Your Hospital Bag
At North Pointe OB/GYN, we want you to feel prepared and ready for labor – one of the most exciting moments of your life. Here are some helpful suggestions for what to pack in your hospital bag:
- Personal Toiletries – toothbrush/toothpaste, face wash, body lotion.
- Pads –about 5 super-absorbent sanitary pads.
- Comfortable Clothing – 2-3 loose-fitting outfits (don’t assume you’ll be in your pre-pregnancy pants yet!)
- Maternity/Nursing Bra and Extra Underwear
- Nightgown/PJs – front-opening if you plan to breastfeed
- Entertainment –books, electronic items, puzzles, magazines
- Comfort Items – socks, cozy bathrobe, slippers, your favorite pillow
- Snacks –non-perishable food like crackers, dried fruit or granola bars.
- Baby Items and Clothes – “going home” outfit for baby and blanket/pacifier
- Miscellaneous – spare charger, contact lens/glasses
It’s really never too early to pack your hospital bag. In fact, some women find that it helps them relax during the final weeks of pregnancy to know that things are “ready to go” at a moment’s notice. After all, we typically can’t predict the hour or day that your baby will decide to make its entrance! For more tip on preparing for your labor and delivery, please call our trusted team at North Pointe OB/GYN in Cumming.
