22: packing for the hospital

The baby’s is the same but in brown with turquoise flowers.

In the days and weeks leading up to the birth of your new baby, you’re bound to have some extra time on your hands to think about what will make your time in the hospital/birthing centre more comfortable, and what will be necessary for bringing that little baby home.  Once you’ve reached full term (TOMORROW FOR ME!!!) it’s important to have these bags ready as you could technically go into labour at any time.

Each woman will have different items that they HAVE to have with them at the hospital, but below I’ve included the items that we’re planning on bringing.  As well, the hospital in your area may provide different items, so ask in advance.  I was so excited about doing this tangible preparation for labour that I went out and bought new overnight bags for myself and the baby (as seen above) at Giant Tiger!  I’m a little behind getting mine together, but I’ll make sure I show you the bags and their contents when I get them finished in the next few weeks!

 

For Mom:

• Gown or baggy t-shirt – as an alternative to the hospital gown, something that covers your bum and you don’t mind tossing afterwards
• Towels (a dark colour)
• Toiletries – You may be in for a while, so pack anything you need in the morning and evening (e.g. shampoo, toothpaste, hairbrush, even makeup)
• Flip flops for in shower
• Maternity/maxi pads
• Housecoat and warm socks or slippers – for walking the halls to bring on labour!
• CD Player and music/relaxation CD’s OR iPod/mp3 player
• Comfort items – hot water bottle, frozen water bottle, birth ball, massage oil, etc.
• Nursing bras
• Change of clothes (or two) - preferably loose clothing as things will be a little…sore.

For Dad:

• Snacks and drinks for the hospital (in Craig’s case, this is crispers, sun chips, iced tea and some cut up fruit)
• A list of people to call after she’s born (with a phone card if long distance)
• A change of clothing
• Pillow and blanket (we’re bringing his camo ranger blanket, as I think it’ll be super cute in photos with his little girl in pink!)
• Entertainment (laptop and movies, books, magazines, etc.)

For the Little One:

• Blank cardstock to get baby footprints
• Diapers
• Blankets
• Hats, mitts and booties
• 3-4 onesies
• Pajamas
• Swaddling/receiving blankets
• Carseat for the trip home – legal and properly installed of course!

To make things easier at the hospital, the baby’s bag can be left in the car with the car seat until after she’s born, although you might want to pack a onesie and receiving blanket in your bag so Dad doesn’t have to run out too soon afterwards!

As well, some hospitals would rather you bring your labour/birthing ball in deflated and inflate it at the hospital.  If this is the case, make sure you bring a small bike pump!