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Preparing for birth: Packing for your hospital stay

Though pregnancy, and getting ready for birth is an exhausting time; you have been busy trying to keep yourself and your family together, all while trying to maintain a sense of self in your alternative lifestyle. However, despite your alternative standpoint in fashion it is still important to have a list of things to pack in your birth bag, and post partum bag. Why, you might ask? While the hospital is likely to have almost anything you should need, many mothers find it comforting to have some of their own things handy for the birth and hospital stay. But why two? Well, that again is quite simple. You will want to pack a smaller over-night bag full of the items you may need during labor, and delivery. You may not be able to fit everything you may need after this time, into the smaller bag.

It is important to remember to write your list, prior to packing your bags. But, how long before should you pack these bags? It is suggest that you pack the bags, as soon as two weeks prior to your child's expected birth date. However, things that you use on a daily basis such as, makeup, hair brushes, tooth brushes etc may be left until the last minute. Although, if you are anything like me you may want to purchase a secondary set of them to have ready just in case.

For the labor or birthing bag you may want to consider bringing:

Your written birth plan.
Your insurance card, medicaid card, or any other hospital paperwork that you may need.
Your eyeglasses (if you wear them), even if you are an avid contacts fan you may still need, or wish to take eyeglasses to supplement your contacts.
Hair bands or barrettes (this will depend on your want for them and the length of your hair)
Lip balm, or moisturizer.
Clothing elements: Bathrobe, nightgown, slipper, a couple pairs of socks. The hospital will provide you with the gowns needed during labor, and afterward. However most will allow you to wear your own clean clothing if you prefer. Remember to choose something loose, and comfortable. ( It should be something that you wouldn't mind spoiling, as there is a chance they may get ruined)
Something to read (this is a long process for some women).
Massage oils, lotions, anything that is aroma therapy.
A pillow from home
Tennis balls, or a rolling pin, in case of back pain during labor (used for massage)
Pictures of that will bring you comfort.

Post labor bag:

Tooth brushes for everyone, along with tooth paste.
Music that you may enjoy (you should bring a cd player, ipod, or tape player as well)
Camera with film, or memory cards along with batteries.
Camcorder, with a charged battery and an spare.
Water bottles, or lidded cups for ice.
Waterproof pads, for the car ride.
The list of people to call, after the baby is born. Including a calling card for long distance calls.
Change of clothes for partner and self, for the time expected to spend at the hospital
Special foods or drinks. (Including suckers, or hard candy)
Nursing bras and pads
Breast feeding book, or books.
Going home outfit for your new son/daughter.
Blanket for baby
Toiletries
Car seat with instructions

Preparing for birth: Packing for your hospital stay

For the labor or birthing bag you may want to consider bringing:

Post labor bag:

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