What to Take to the Hospital for Childbirth

What will I need?

If you can, find out in advance what items the hospital provides for you during and after labor and what you will need to bring. You might want to talk with a member of the hospital staff or other women who have delivered at that hospital.

Consider packing the following items, unless you know the hospital provides them for you:

• 2 nightgowns with openings in front (front openings are helpful if you plan to breast-feed and for exams)
• comfortable bathrobe and slippers
• 3 or 4 pairs of socks
• 2 bras (nursing bras if you plan to breast-feed)
• several pairs of underpants, in case of blood stains
• sanitary pads, unless they are provided (you will not be able to use tampons for 6 weeks after your delivery)
• toothbrush, toothpaste, floss
• comb, brush, curlers, and barrettes or ties for long hair
• shampoo and conditioner, blow dryer, curling iron
• cosmetics
• glasses (contact lenses will be removed if you need surgery)
• books or magazines
• pad and pencil (good for writing down questions to ask healthcare providers when they visit)
• change for vending machines and phone
• phone numbers of friends and family to call after the delivery
• loose-fitting clothes and comfortable shoes to wear home (you won't have your prepregnancy figure back yet)--for example, a sweat suit with a drawstring waist
• any prenatal reports, insurance information, and papers related to your stay at the hospital
• any medicines you are taking and a list of the medicines.

Do not bring large sums of money or valuables with you to the hospital. Remember that hospitals are a public place. You will have to keep track of things you bring with you.

It is helpful to pack a small bag or cosmetic case with small personal items, such as your toothbrush, toothpaste, comb, and hairbrush. This will help you find them easily among your other things.

What will I need for the baby?

Things you may need to bring for the baby include:

• a shirt and sleeper
• receiving blanket
• diapers and wipes
• safety pins and rubber or nylon pants if you are using cloth diapers
• pacifier (a type that has been agreed upon by you and your provider)
• heavy blanket, sweater, and hat if weather is cold
• a car seat (it is against the law to hold a newborn baby in your lap while you are riding in a car).