What to Bring to the Hospital When Having a Baby

Childbirth is one of the most important occasion in our lives. Once planned, women as well as other members of the family look forward to childbirth with excitement and enthusiasm. However when the time arrives of actually going to the hospital for childbirth, women are bewildered as to what to pack for the hospital when having a baby. Here is a list of things that are of utmost necessity as well as recommended to pack for the hospital when having a baby.

For the Mother
It is advised that you need to pack the things required for the hospital well in advanced, i.e., as early as a week prior to the due date as you might not know when you will need to rush to the hospital. So, here is a checklist on things to bring to the hospital when having a baby.

Clothes
You will need the following maternity clothes in the hospital.

• Comfortable day clothes like loose gowns, t-shirts, etc.*
• Nightgowns*
• Underwear and nursing bras (disposable or regular)
• Bathrobe
• Going home outfit (one that fitted when you were 5-6 months pregnant)
• Slippers, shoes, socks
• Sweaters, hoodies, hats, scarves (in winter)

Toiletries

• Toothpaste and toothbrush
• Soap, shampoo, body lotion*
• Extra large or maternity sanitary pads*
• Hair comb or brush
• Hair clips, hair band or barrettes
• Shower cap
• Lip balm, moisturizer or makeup
• Deodorant

Others

• Picture ID, insurance card.
• Birth plan (if available)
• Snacks like fruit juices, soups, sandwiches, etc
• Water bottles*
• Blankets and pillows*
• Money, loose change
• Light reading material, music, etc
• Cell phone with charger (if allowed)
• List of telephone numbers to contact

For the Baby
Along with the above mentioned things, it is also essential to pack a few things for the baby. You can pack all the following things for the baby in a separate bag. The following is a list of what to take to the hospital when having a baby for the baby.

• Installed infant car seat
• Nappies or baby diapers (disposable or cloth ones)*
• Baby clothes, socks and hats
• Baby toiletries like soap, shampoo, lotions, moisturizers, etc.
• Baby blankets and rugs
• Wipes

*These things are provided by the hospital, hence, they may not be mandatory to pack. However, if you wish to have things that you are comfortable in, you can always carry your own brands and favorites.

Installed infant car seat is a must if you are taking the baby home in a car. If not installed, the hospital may not allow you to take the baby home in your car. If your partner or labor coach accompanies you, the person needs to pack clothes, toiletries, snacks, money, etc. for himself. He can also carry video camera (if allowed), massage oils, hot packs, watch with a second hand, etc. Nearly all the above mentioned things can be gotten from a supermarket.

In case a cell phone is not allowed, you can carry a call card. On the other hand, following are the things that should NOT be brought to the hospital when having a baby:

• Jewelry
• Lots of cash
• Valuables
• Medications or drugs (without doctor's prescription)

Lastly, do not forget to pack the bags and keep them in you car to avoid forgetting it amidst labor. Good luck!