Hospital Bag Checklist For Moms
The day is finally here when you will get to meet your new one. We know it's not a picnic, and you will probably be more stressed than we could put into words. Our hospital bag checklist aims to take some load off your bag. During the delivery, you will likely be staying in the hospital for at least 24 hours (vaginal delivery) to 2 days or longer.
Your hospital will have most of the things you require at your disposal, but it never hurts to pack a bag of your own with the important stuff.
When to Pack Your Hospital Bag
Ideally, it would help if you were packed and ready to go three weeks before the due date. It is because most babies are either delivered before or after the due date. So packing well in advance gives you a bit of time to deal with the unexpected.
What the Hospital Will Provide You
Before getting into the hospital bag checklist, let's take a look at the things your hospital will most definitely provide you with so you don't end up carrying extra stuff for no reason. However, all hospitals are different, and you should inquire before reaching to clarify any doubts. All modern hospitals will readily give you a tour and brief you on what to expect during your stay there. Book a time during your last trimester!
For moms, hospitals generally provide:
- hospital gowns
- slippers
- large tumblers for ice and water
- massagers, stability ball and other labor equipment
- basic toiletries like soap, toothpaste, toothbrush, shampoo, etc.
- maxi pads
- underwear
- pillows, blankets, and sheets
- post care items like ointments, witch hazel cotton pads, etc.
Things to Leave At Home
- Rings, earrings, and other jewelry
- Watches
- Laptops or tablets
- Too much loose cash
In short, only pack things that you won't miss if they were to get lost. Simple.
What to include in the hospital bag for Mothers
Although the hospital will provide you with the most essential and necessary items, having familiar things with you will put you more at ease. However, before packing, remember to call your hospital regarding what you can or cannot carry. Some hospitals might require you to wear a hospital gown while giving birth. So be sure to check that out.
- Your ID - This is obvious. You'll need some identification before getting admitted. Also, carry your insurance cards and all other documents that might come in handy.
- Prescriptions - This is a must. You will need to show all the medication you have been taking throughout the pregnancy.
- Credit card and some cash - You might need these to settle the dues at the hospital or buy something from the cafeteria.
- Nursing Wear or pajamas - Most hospitals will let you get comfortable in your clothes after the delivery. Get your hands on a couple of nursing-friendly dresses or pajamas for easy breastfeeding.
- Non-skid slippers - Whether you have had a cesarean or a standard delivery, doctors will want to have you up and walking in no time. It would be best to have slippers or shoes that do not skid on the squeaky clean hospital floors.
- Book - Or a magazine or other reading material. This is helpful in case you're waiting a while for the main event.
- Cell phone and charger - Depending on how fast or slow your labor arrives, you may want to kill some time watching something on Netflix or call up a friend.
- Toiletries - Although the hospital has you covered on this account, you should still bring some of your favorite ones. Putting on some deodorant and kohl will do wonders to bring up your mood. Don't forget body lotion if you have dry skin.
- Underwear - Get your own. Nothing else can feel as comfortable. And remember to buy full coverage maternity panties because you will be wearing pads for some time.
- Pads - The hospital might not have the brand or type you prefer, so pack yourself a packet. Also, you can't use tampons after delivery.
- Nursing bra - Whether or not you breastfeed, your breasts will be plump and leaking during the first few weeks. Carry a nursing bra for support and easy access for breastfeeding.
- Breastfeeding cover - You will have a lot of visitors. So it's a good idea to pack a nursing cover to feel more comfortable during the first feedings.
- Nursing Pillow - Since you are brand new at this, you will need some extra help to support the baby's head while breastfeeding. A nursing pillow is a godsend!
- Going home outfit - Pack a cute nursing dress or a pair of nursing tops and pants for a grand entry to your home. Everybody will be waiting for you, so make it count.
