Giving birth can be an exciting and joyful time. The preparation for the baby and the trip to the hospital, however, can get a bit chaotic and muddled. Mothers and fathers to be can take one more item off of their list by packing for the hospital early. The following information are some guidelines and considerations you may want to think about packing for both you and the baby.
Mother
Mothers often focus on packing for the baby rather than for themselves when heading to the hospital. However, it is just as important that moms are prepared for the time during and after birth to ensure that they are in their most comfortable position while in the hospital and on their way home. Mothers should be sure to include in their packing clean and loose fitting cotton underwear. This is especially important for mothers that have vaginally delivered and may experience some bleeding or discomfort. The pubic region of a woman following birth can be highly sensitive and may even have wound care that needs to occur. For this reason, constricting undergarments should be avoided in place of looser fitting and cotton ones. They may also wish to pack some nightgowns and loose fitting shirts for the time after they give birth. Sweatpants or jogging shorts may seem like they would be a good idea, however, even the movement of bending over to put legs in them can be difficult and strenuous on the body. Instead, try bringing along great nightgowns that will be comfortable and easy to put on while in the hospital and make sure that you take the temperature of the environment into consideration when picking out the perfect one for you.
Baby
A car seat is one of the most important packing musts for parents entering the hospital to give birth to their new little one. This will be what the child is taken home in and what keeps them safe in the trip from the hospital to home. Remember, too, that you will want to include a nice outfit for the child to travel home in as well. Many women and men make this outfit an important one because it will be seen in many photographs and have special meaning in many families for tradition’s sake. You also want to pack diapers and bottles for the child as a just-in-case measure in preparation.
- Cameras, Camcorders, and/or Tablets for recording.
- Cell Phone
- Entertainment Items – Such as games, dvds, laptop, cds, etc
- Pencil, notpad, and watch for timing contractions or else smart phone app
- Toiletries such as toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, hairbrush, cosmetics, and shampoo
- Lotions/Moisturizers
- Glasses, in case you have to remove contact lenses
- Nursing bra, if you plan to breastfeed
- Pajamas (bring a couple), slippers and a robe
- Favorite Items From Home such as pillows or blankets
- Comfortable clothes
- Underwear (several pairs)
- Socks
- Baby blanket
- Infant car seat
- An outfit for the baby, including socks, onesie, diaper and hat