Packing for the Hospital
For Mom:
- Labour kit containing massage oil (recommended in most childbirth classes)
- Robe
- Warm socks (to wear in the delivery room)
- Maternity underwear (for the trip home)
- Slippers
- Nightgown (one that opens in the front if you're planning on breastfeeding)
- Nursing bra (if you're planning on breastfeeding)
- Clothing for trip home (consider bringing 1st or 2nd trimester maternity clothes, which will be roomy and comfortable)
- Two pillows with pillowcases from home
- Cosmetics, hairbrush, hair dryer
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, floss
- Prescription medications from home (use only as advised by your doctor)
- Mints or breath strips (helpful if medications or anesthesia cause vomiting during labour)
- Lollipops (for a dry mouth)
- Lip balm
- Deodorant
- Body lotion
- Eyeglasses (contact lenses may need to be removed prior to a C-section)
- Contact lenses and accessories
- A nightlight (for soft light in the room during night feedings)
- A pad of paper and pen to track Baby's feedings and diaper changes
- A large envelope to bring home documents (discharge papers, Baby's first photo, etc.)
For Dad:
- Change of clothes
- Pajamas or sweats (if he plans to spend the night)
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, razor
- Snacks, sandwiches and beverages (keep food on hand so the "labour coach" won't have to leave your bedside)
- Loose change or dollar bills for vending machines
- Books, magazines or CD's (to help Mom relax)
- Camera(s) and extra film
- Camcorder
- Batteries and/or chargers for cameras
- Phone list for friends and family
- Phone card for long distance calls if cell phones are prohibited in the hospital
- Car seat for trip home (mandatory - it is the law).
For Baby:
- Newborn clothing
- Two receiving blankets
- Extra newborn-sized diapers
- Mittens or baby nail clippers (most babies are born with long fingernails and can scratch their face)
- Cans/bottles of infant formula if you intend to bottle-feed so your baby can start with the brand you prefer