Though it can be exhilarating, getting ready for your baby’s arrival can also be overwhelming. Packing your hospital bag is a crucial task. Having the necessary supplies on hand will make your stay more organised and comfortable. This is a comprehensive Hospital Bag Checklist for Mom.
When to Pack a Hospital Bag?
You do have some leeway in choosing when to pack your hospital bag, even though timing is crucial. However, this will differ from person to person depending on unique circumstances, just like so many other things. Nicole Randazzo-Ahern, MD, the medical director of the newborn nursery at MassGeneral Hospital for Children, advises packing at about 35 weeks if a woman has a high-risk pregnancy and her OB feels she may go into labor early—for example, an expectant mother of twins. In other circumstances, I would advise waiting between 37 and 38 weeks. In this manner, if labor starts early, your fundamentals are covered, and adjustments can always be made as needed.
It is entirely up to you when to pack a hospital bag, but if you want to get ahead, go ahead and start sooner! However, it’s a good idea to pack your hospital bag as soon as the baby decides to arrive, rather than waiting until after 38 weeks.
What to Pack in the Hospital Bag for Mom?
- Lip balm: During labor, your lips may get chapped. Keeping lip balm handy will help keep your lips feeling comfortable and hydrated.
- Body lotion or massage oil: A little massage during labor can be soothing, according to some. Put some oil or lotion in your hospital bag if you think you might be this person.
- Water spray and sponge: If you begin to feel hot during labor, spritzing water on your face and neck or dabbing cool water on your forehead can help.Â
- Comfortable pillow(s): You will be given pillows by your hospital, but they may not be the proper type for you. You might want to bring along your most cherished pillow from home as well.
- Relaxing entertainment: Bring some entertainment items with you, such as a music player, a book, magazines, or a tablet loaded with movies or TV shows.
- Hospital paperwork, ID, and insurance card: To make it easier for your medical team to review your medical history, keep copies of your records close at hand. Make sure you have a copy of your ID, insurance documents, and any medical cards on hand because hospitals require these upfront.
- Birth plan: Although your medical team may have already discussed your birth plan, having a few printed copies on hand for the doctors and nurses allows everyone to refer to it in case questions come up at the last minute.
- Bathrobe: Whether you’re in the hospital for a while after giving birth, or even during labor, a cozy bathrobe comes in handy for pacing around.
- Slippers and flip-flops: Wearing slippers that are easy to get on and off while moving around the hospital ward is what you should look for. Bring along some flip-flops for the shower.
- Eye mask and earplugs: During the quiet moments of labor or for some well-earned rest after giving birth, an eye mask and earplugs may be exactly what you need to help you fall asleep in a busy and bright maternity ward.
Hospital Bag Checklist for Mom (After Delivery)
- Underwear: Although hospitals frequently provide stretchy underwear, you might want to bring along multiple pairs big enough to fit over thick maternity pads.
- Toiletries: Remember to carry tissues, a comb, a hairbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, a hairdryer, hair clips, and hair ties. Stow your dirty clothes in a plastic bag.
- Cosmetics and skin care products: Remember your makeup if applying makeup is a regular part of your routine. Your skin may feel drier than usual, so be sure to bring some moisturiser.
- Nightgowns: During your hospital stay, you’ll need something to sleep in that is cozy, and a loose, soft nightgown is a nice choice. Should you intend to breastfeed, go for a front-opening style.
- Glasses and contact lenses: Though it might seem apparent, occasionally, when packing your hospital bag, these tiny details can slip your mind. If you wear contacts, don’t forget to bring in a contact lens solution and a lens case.
- Phone and charger: Remember your phone and charger during this special time, unless you decide to take a little digital detox. You can use it to snap those first few photos, post your special news on social media, and stay in touch with loved ones.
- Clothes: You may decide to bring along some comfortable clothing in addition to your nightgown for your hospital stay. Bring an extra change of clothes for the house. Select clothing that fits loosely and has an elastic or drawstring waist.
- Handouts and reference books: You may have reference books about newborns or have some useful notes from your prenatal classes. You will have access to a wealth of individualized advice from doctors and nurses, but these will probably be more helpful after you are holding your baby in your arms.
- Heavy-duty maternity pads: The hospital will supply some of these, but just in case, you might want to pack a few sturdy maternity pads. Maternity pads are softer and more absorbent than regular pads, and bleeding is a common side effect after giving birth. You may initially need to swap pads every hour or two, but after a few days, the flow will start to decrease.
- Snacks and drinks: Labor may take a long time, so bring some snacks and drinks. However, ask your medical team if you will be able to eat or drink while in labor. You may also want to bring some comfort food to the hospital, so pack some of your favorite postpartum snacks.
What Not to Pack in Your Hospital Bag?
- Diapers and wipes: It’s a good idea to confirm with your hospital before packing your bag because most of them provide baby wipes and diapers during your stay.
- Too many clothes: You won’t need many clothes because you’ll probably spend most of your stay in your nightgown. Bring comfortable clothing that’s simple to put on, like loose-fitting tops and leggings, for your return home.
- Valuables: Precious items, like jewelry, should be kept safe at home. When you’re concentrating on giving birth and caring for your newborn, the last thing you want to worry about is misplacing something significant.
- Electronic devices: Larger devices, such as portable TVs or music players, will be unnecessary, but your phone and camera may come in handy. Always keep headphones on hand if you want to watch or listen to something without bothering other guests.
- Too much food: Don’t overpack; just a few of your favorite snacks and some water are good to have on hand. It’s possible that you won’t have time to eat it. If your stay is longer than anticipated, the hospital will probably supply you with food, and your companion can bring additional snacks if necessary.
Conclusion
Hospital Bag Checklist for Mom, Preparing your hospital bag in advance will guarantee that you arrive at the hospital feeling ready and at ease. You can concentrate on the arrival of your baby by packing necessities like entertainment, comfy clothes, and toiletries. Don’t overpack, and give priority to things that will make you feel at ease and well-organised.