What to Pack in My Hospital Bag

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During your stay at the hospital when you are giving birth, we want you to feel comfortable, cozy and as much at home as possible. After you give birth, you will want to change into something more comfortable. You don't necessarily need to bring nursing bras unless you really want to. You can simply wear something that is easy to feed your baby in and do skin to skin with (like a tank top that you can easily pull down the strap). Some hospitals have a professional photographer that comes to take photos of your and your precious new baby in your hospital room, so if this is something you are interested in and you want to wear makeup, that is why we recommend bringing your cosmetics. We recommend your favorite underwear in case you don't want to wear the Depends or mesh panties from the hospital. The hospital will give you diapers, hat, shirt, and blanket for your baby, so you really don't need to bring anything unless you want to! Bring your own clothing and diapers if you have a brand or style preference.

For you for labor and postpartum:

  • Robe
  • Slippers
  • Bathing suit (if choosing to use a tub or shower)
  • Aromatherapy (with care provider's approval)
  • Comfortable loungewear
  • Any favorite snacks
  • Cell phone charger
  • Desired music on cell phone
  • Camera and memory card
  • Cosmetics
  • Grooming supplies
  • Favorite big underwear that can accommodate a maxi pad
  • Going home outfit (a maxi skirt or loose fitting yoga pants)

For baby:

  • Any favorite/preferred outfits
  • Any favorite/preferred blankets
  • Any favorite/preferred hats
  • Going home outfit
  • Any favorite/preferred diapers
  • Car seat properly installed and checked by a CPST

The idea here is for both you and baby to be as comfortable as possible. Bring what will make you feel relaxed and serene and if you are wondering if it is okay, ask your care provider. Chances are it is totally okay! Your care provider and nurses want you to have the best birth experience possible and they understand that often includes bringing comfort items from home.

 

Hospital Bag, LaborKrystal