Packing Your Hospital Bag for Labour: The Essentials
Deciding what to pack in your hospital bag for labour might just be one of the most practical steps you'll take as you prepare for your little one's arrival. It's a blend of excitement and a bit of anxiety, isn't it? Ensuring you have everything you need for yourself, from the essentials like maternity pads and nursing bras to comforts such as your favourite snacks and music, can significantly ease your mind. Obviously, it's not just about packing for yourself; remembering the baby’s clothes and nappies, plus your birth partner's needs, makes the task seem like assembling a mini survival kit.
In this article, we're breaking down exactly what to pack in your hospital bag, making sure you're prepared for every part of your birthing experience. We’ll guide you through the essentials for yourself, including toiletries, nighties, and a TENS machine for pain relief, to what's needed for your baby, like babygrows and muslin squares. We'll also touch on what your birth partner should bring along, from chargers to their own snacks, ensuring everyone's comfort and readiness. With additional tips on what to pack in your hospital bag for a c-section and recommended snacks to keep your energy up, you'll be confidently packing your bag with everything you might need for this life-changing event.
What to Pack for Yourself
Comfortable Clothing
Packing the right clothing for labor will help you feel comfortable. Opt for loose, breathable outfits that don't restrict movement. A large t-shirt or a nightgown that opens in the front can be ideal, especially if you plan to breastfeed. Some women include a (thin and easy to pack) dressing gown for walking around the ward, while they’ll also pack flip-flops or sliders to walk around in, but all use in the shower if you don’t fancy bear feet!
Consider packing a few extra comfy clothes incase you need to stay a few nights. Pack several pairs of large, comfortable knickers which can accommodate those maternity pads and ensure they’re also big enough to cover a potential c-section scar, which other underwear might dig into. Add 1-2 nursing bras along with breast pads to manage any leakage.
Toiletries + Personal Care
Pack your essential toiletries to help you feel refreshed (perhaps mini-versions to save space), including a toothbrush, toothpaste, hairbrush, hair bands, deodorant, shampoo/conditioner and body wash. Lip balm and body lotion or massage oil can help keep your skin hydrated and provide some comfort during labour, especially if you use gas and air which can dry your mouth out. Packing a small face flannel can be handy for a quick refresh during labour. Nipple cream is a god-send for these first few days while you get used to breastfeeding, if you’re planning to do so.
Important Documents
Ensure you have all necessary documents readily accessible. This includes your hospital file, birth preferences, and any medical records that can provide your healthcare team with essential information about your medical history. Having these documents at hand can help streamline your admission and ensure that your care preferences are followed.
Entertainment + Comfort Items
Labour can be unpredictable, and it might involve long waiting periods. Pack items that can help you relax and pass the time, such as books, magazines, or a tablet loaded with movies and music. A portable fan or a water spray can also be beneficial to manage discomfort during labour. If you find comfort in aromatherapy, consider including essential oils that you've used during pregnancy to help you relax. Your brain will associate the smell with relaxation and promote the release of oxytocin (see hypnobirthing blog). Creating a soothing playlist in advance and packing an external speaker and charger can make the environment more personal and comforting. A TENS machine is worth considering for pain relief (bring spare batteries).
Snacks + Hydration
Staying hydrated and as energised as possible is important during labor. Pack a variety of snacks that are easy to eat and digest, like sweets, fruits, and cereal bars. Avoid anything too heavy. For hydration, water is essential, and you might also want to include some isotonic drinks to maintain your energy levels. Pack snacks in small, easy-to-open containers to keep them fresh and accessible.
What to Pack for the Baby
Clothing + Essentials
When packing for your newborn, include several bodysuits, vests, and sleepsuits to keep them warm during their first days. Some like to pack a cute going home outfit, ready for those leaving the hospital photos. The midwives tend to put a hat on babies soon after they're born as they can’t yet maintain their own temerature, but best to pack one as a spare.
Pack a cellular blanket or two, as although hospitals generally provide them, bringing your own can add a personal touch and they’re good for the journey home. Muslin squares are versatile for burping or as a light cover during feeding.
Diapers + Changing Supplies
Newborns go through a surprising number of diapers, so pack about 20 nappies designed for newborns, like Pampers Premium Protection New Baby, as they might use up to 10-12 diapers a day. Nappy rash or barrier cream will hep to avoid nappy rash in those early days.
Feeding Supplies
If you choose to bottle feed, or if you’re not sure you’ll be able to breastfeed, bring enough pre-packed bottles of a readymade newborn formula to last for your stay. Hospitals may not store opened formula milk, so it’s advisable to bring disposable, sterile, single-use bottles, which are a better option than powder while in the hospital.
What to Pack for Your Birth Partner
Comfortable Clothing
Packing the right clothes for your birth partner is crucial as labor can be unpredictable and lengthy. Make sure they have a change of clothes that are loose and comfy. Layers are recommended since hospital environments can vary in temperature. Don't forget to include swimwear if they plan to support you in a birth pool.
Toiletries + Personal Care
Your birth partner will appreciate having their own toiletries to freshen up during what could be a long stay. Pack essentials like toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, and wipes. It's also a good idea to include spare glasses or contact lenses if they wear them, ensuring they can navigate the long hours more comfortably.
Entertainment + Comfort Items
Labour involves a lot of waiting, so help your birth partner stay relaxed and entertained. Include items like books, magazines, a tablet, or a music player. A small pillow might also be appreciated for grabbing some rest during downtime.
Snacks + Hydration
Staying hydrated and energised is important for you and your birth partner. Pack a variety of snacks that are easy to eat and provide sustained energy, such as fruit, nuts, and cereal bars. Include plenty of water and perhaps some isotonic drinks to keep energy levels up. Don't forget to bring some change for the hospital vending machines and the car park.
Extra Tips + Recommendations
It's recommended to start getting your hospital bag ready 3-4 weeks before your due date. This preparation ensures that you're all set if your baby decides to arrive earlier than expected.
You might find it helpful to pack two separate bags: one for labor and another for after the birth so you know which bag to open when.
Packing cubes are super helpful to organise your items and make sure everything is easily accessible, especially if you’re not the one searching for a specific thing. Label each one, e.g. sleep suits, vests, blankets, etc to make it even more obvious.
Beyond packing your bag, it's crucial to plan for your journey to the hospital or birth center. Ensure your car is in good working condition and that there's always enough petrol in the tank.
If you're planning a home birth, it's still a good idea to have a hospital bag prepared. This way, you're ready to go if you need to transfer to a hospital at any point.
Don’t forget the car seat for the trip home!
Also, consider preparing for your return home, post-birth, by stocking up on essentials like sanitary towels, and nappies, and perhaps even preparing some meals in advance and freezing them.
If you’re anything like me, I feel more confident in bring organised and prepared, especially heading into something I (at the time) had never experienced before. My advice is to start packing early and set yourself a deadline to have the bag ready by, otherwise you could keep adding and adding!
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Thanks for reading,
Lizzie x