When you are over 8 months pregnant, then you should be ready for your baby to make an appearance any time after this time. Getting mentally prepared is one thing, getting practically ready for the birth process is quite another.
It is essential that you have a hospital bag ready for if you have to make your way to the hospital earlier than anticipated.
Here is a checklist for what you need to put in your hospital bag or labor/delivery bag.
- All the paper work for checking into the hospital – ID, insurance, and so on.
- You should carry all relevant medical records, antenatal reports from checkups, and sonograms and anything else that may be relevant.
- Your birth-plan if you have made it.
- Glasses if you wear them.
- Basic toiletries such as soap, shampoo, moisturizing lotion, deo, lip balm, and so on.
A bit of basic makeup items can also be slipped into the bag, it can be a boost after the baby arrives when you want to look less drained than you feel. - Clothing should include loose and comfy items such as gowns or dresses, nursing bras, underpants and some slippers. Also remember to pack an outfit from when you leave the hospital; you may want something practical but pretty. Remember to pack a hair brush and any hair accessories that you think you may need.
- Relaxation aids or something to help divert the mind when labor starts can also be packed. An iPod, a book, even a favorite pillow should be tucked into that bag.
- Pack your camera; even if you are not planning to film the birth, you will want to record the first time mommy and daddy held the baby and a host of other precious memories.
- Sanitary towels for after the arrival or baby though these may be provided by the hospital.
- Few sets of basic baby clothes such as onsies and adequate numbers of small size diapers. A receiving blanket and a couple of swaddling cloths may be other things to pack.
- The baby book – you may want to write down your thought before, during and after the birth and may want to record various other details relating to this life changing experience.
- Something that you may not think to pack is some snacks or comfort food for what will admittedly be a trying time.
Anything else our readers can think of? Suggestions are welcome.