Hospital Bag Checklist- Packing for mom, baby and family
Preparing for baby
Having a baby, whether it’s your first or fourth, is an exciting yet potentially overwhelming experience. Especially as a first time mom, it’s easy to feel a sense of information overload when it comes to products, healthcare decisions, childcare, infant feeding, postpartum health and so much more. One of the more exciting moments is when you are finally ready to pack your hospital bag. CMC Women’s Health has curated a comprehensive list of items to help you and your baby be as comfortable as possible.
Important Documents
Dr. Armstrong of CMC Women’s Health stresses “start by making a list! Begin with your most critical items and then work your way back.” For instance, a photo ID, proof of insurance, hospital forms, and your birth plan (if you have one) should all be packed and ready to go. Forgetting one of these items isn’t the end of the world, but it alleviates stress to know they are already prepped for your hospital stay.
Take the stress out of packing
Storage may be limited in your patient room, so keep size in mind when you are picking out your overnight bag. A weekend duffle or a small rolling suitcase should do the trick. It’s a great idea to have your bag packed and ready to go when you are 36 or 37 weeks pregnant. This way, if you go into early labor you won’t have the added stress of collecting the things you need for the hospital. Laura Baisch, CMC OB Navigator recommends “split your packing list up into sections to make packing as organized as possible.”
What to Pack in your Hospital Bag
- Nursing Bra– These will support your swollen breasts and help keep breast pads in place.
- Breast Pads– These will help absorb milk production postpartum.
- Nightgown or robe– A nightgown (preferably one that buttons up the front) will keep you comfortable and make for an easy transition to breastfeeding.
- Button down shirt- To help make breastfeeding easier.
- Slippers and/or slip on shoes (think crocs)– These will come in handy as you start to get back on your feet and you’ll want something to wear on the car ride home. Keep in mind, swelling of feet and legs is common, so you’ll want footwear with some wiggle room.
- Washcloth and towel- Some people with sensitive skin may find hospital towels and washcloths might aggravate their skin. We recommend you bring your own washcloth and towel to add the comforts of home.
- Eye Mask– Getting as much rest as you can before pushing is so helpful. Consider bringing an eye mask to help aid in sleep and rest.
- Phone Charger– A charger with a LONG cord will ensure you have access to your cell phone even if your partner is out of the room.
- Pillow– A personal pillow can add a little bit of comfort and make you feel more at home. Consider bringing an extra pillow case as well. Double up if your partner will be spending the night in the room with you.
- Jewelry– You may not have access to a locked storage area in your rooms. Consider leaving important jewelry at home.
- Earbuds and/or portable speaker– Make a playlist in advance and bring a comfortable set of wireless earbuds to enjoy your favorite songs leading up to and even during delivery.
- Glasses and contacts– Arrive to the hospital in your glasses, but have your contacts and saline solution available for postpartum comfort.
- Warm Socks– Warm socks that will stay put are a must for chilly hospital rooms.
- Extra clothes for mom– Consider something to change into while you are still in the hospital and a second outfit to wear going home. Comfort is key!
- Hair scrunchy or headband– To keep your hair out of your face.
- Sanitary pads and overnight Depends– While the hospital will provide you with these, you might be more comfortable with a brand you prefer. You will need a pad that can handle a heavy flow.
- Larger underwear– The hospital will provide you with mesh underwear and pads postpartum, however, you may want something with a little more structure to keep your pad in place. Consider buying a new pack of cotton underwear in a size larger than normal to accommodate the heavy flow pad.
- Toiletries and toiletry bag– Toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, hairbrush, shampoo/conditioner, lotion/oil. You’ll likely be taking a few pictures after delivery with your baby and if having a little lipstick or blush on hand would make you more comfortable, pack those items as well.
- Extra shopping totes- For any dirty laundry or gifts you might receive and need to carry to the car.
- Chapstick
- Gum
*If you are currently taking any medications, your CMC provider will order what you need and it will be provided for you at the hospital. No need to bring medications from home.
What to pack in your Baby/Diaper Bag
- Diapers– The hospital will provide these, but you may want to bring extra if you have a brand you prefer.
- Hat, booties/socks
- Newborn wipes– The hospital can provide these if needed.
- Mittens– To protect baby’s face- the hospital can provide these if requested.
- Two blankets for the baby– Once you have the baby’s scent on the blanket, bring them home in advance to introduce them to pets if you have them at home.
- Breast Pump– The hospital will have a breast pump, however, if you’ve purchased one, you may be more comfortable using it.
- Car seat– You can visit local car seat fitting stations to ensure your new car seat is safely installed ahead of time.
- Breast feeding pillow
Family Comfort Items
- Snacks and drinks- The business of birthing babies can be long. Consider snacks for your partner and for you (postpartum of course). The hospital will provide meals and drinks to mom.
- Cooler– Partners need fuel too! Consider a cooler with a few sandwiches for your partner. This way they don’t have to go looking for food or leave mom during a critical moment.
- Toilet paper– This may cause a chuckle but we all have a toilet paper brand we’re committed to! Consider bringing a four pack to keep in your bathroom so you and your partner can enjoy one of the most important creature comforts.
- Group Chat– Have your spouse create a group chat in advance with all the people that need to be notified. Or, ask a friend or family member to be responsible for notifying those in your group chat, freeing your phone up from an assault of messages.
- Busy items for older children– If you have older children that will be visiting you in the hospital, consider having a gift bag ready for them to congratulate them on being a sibling. Add color books, crayons, and busy items to make them feel part of the experience and keep them busy.
- Journal and pen– Having this handy will help you and your partner keep up with any questions you may have for your doctor, pediatrician, or nurse.
- Entertainment– Books, magazines, or a tablet can help pass the time for you and your partner.
Remember, every birth experience is unique, so feel free to tailor your hospital bag to your personal preferences and needs. Packing ahead of time can alleviate stress and allow you to focus on the exciting moment that awaits: the birth of your precious baby.
Your Partner in Pregnancy and Prenatal Care
We know that you’re going to have a lot of questions regarding your pregnancy and delivery along the way and you’ll want to have an obstetrician that not only listens to you but also makes your health a top priority. Our experienced OBGYN’s like Dr. Lacey Armstrong with CMC Women’s Health will go the extra mile to provide you with top notch care throughout your pregnancy and after you deliver. We also understand that every woman will have different needs throughout her pregnancy. We’ve worked with women of all ages and pre existing health conditions and have the expertise to tailor a plan of care centered around your specific needs.
CMC Women’s Health is the premier practice for women’s health here in Conway and the greater Myrtle Beach area. Whether for routine well visits, prenatal care, or menopause treatment, we are here for you. Call 843-347-7216 to schedule your first visit with us.
