When do i pack my labour bag

Hospitals usually provide soap, shampoo, and lotion, but you might prefer your own. A hanging toiletry bag can be helpful, since there's usually little counter space in the bathroom. Sanitary pads. The hospital will provide sanitary pads to absorb all the blood after delivery , but if you like using a specific brand, feel free to bring your own. And make sure you have a supply of heavy-flow pads waiting at home!

Eyeglasses , if you wear them. Many expectant moms who wear contact lenses opt not to deal with them while in the hospital or birth center. But if you'll be wearing contacts, remember to bring lens solution and a lens case.

Note: If you're having a c-section, you'll be asked to remove your contact lenses before the procedure. Clothing: A bathrobe , a nightgown or two, slippers , and socks. Hospitals and birth centers provide gowns and socks for you to use, but some women also bring their own.

Choose a loose, comfortable gown that's either sleeveless or has short, loose sleeves so that your blood pressure can be checked easily. Backless slippers and a lightweight robe may come in handy if you want to walk the halls during labor or recovery. Keep in mind that whatever you wear could get stained with blood and other body fluids.

A nightgown that opens in front will allow for skin-to-skin contact with your newborn and make breastfeeding easier. A comfortable outfit or two. Some moms prefer changing out of their nightgown during their stay in the hospital, especially if they're expecting visitors.

Maternity yoga pants and tops are a good option, since your belly will still look pregnant. If you have a c-section, you'll want loose clothing that will be comfortable over your incision. For going home, have something roomy and easy to get into and a pair of flat, comfortable shoes. Several pairs of postpartum underwear. Some women love the mesh underwear provided by the hospital, but others don't.

You can't go wrong with your own roomy cotton underpants. Comfortable nursing bras. Your breasts are likely to be tender and swollen when your milk comes in, which can happen anytime during the first several days after delivery. A good bra can provide some comfort, and nursing pads can be added to help absorb leaks. Essentials for labor: Comfort items.

A picture of someone or something you love, essential oils get permission from the hospital or birth center ahead of time , or anything else you find comforting. Massage lotion or oil, if you think you might enjoy a massage while in labor. Bring your favorite playlists, headphones or earbuds, and perhaps a portable speaker. Books , magazines , and a tablet. Entertainment can come in handy in early labor especially. Supplies for after labor: Snacks! An empty folder or tote bag — "You'll get quite a bit of paperwork, information and care instructions for both mom and baby," Malinski explains.

Eyeglasses , if you need them Birth ball — Pre-epidural, "a birth ball allows for sitting, leaning, bouncing, moving your hips, which is great to do in labor because it places the baby right on your cervix to help with better dilation," says Spears.

Peanut ball — Post-epidural, you'll be confined to the bed, but a placing a peanut ball between your legs while you're on your side can help your pelvis stay open. Snacks — For the birth partner; make sure they're odor-free. OTC medicine — For anything that might ail the birth partner. Be the first to comment! No comments yet. Close this dialog window Add a comment. Add your comment Cancel Submit. Medical Review Policy All What to Expect content that addresses health or safety is medically reviewed by a team of vetted health professionals.

Wondering what to pack in your hospital bag for labor? Here are the essentials you should gather together so there's no last-minute rush to fill a suitcase between contractions. Back to Top. In This Article. Continue Reading Below. Read This Next. Signs of Labor.

What Is Cord Blood Banking? Pack some flip-flops for using in the shower. Lip balm. Your lips can get chapped during labor. Having some lip balm on hand will help keep your lips hydrated and comfortable.

Body lotion or massage oil. Some moms-to-be find a little massage during labor relaxing. If this could be you, pop some lotion or oil in your hospital bag. Water spray and sponge. During labor, if you start to feel hot, it can help to spray some water on your face and neck, or to sponge some cool water on your forehead.

Comfortable pillows. Your hospital will provide you with pillows, but they might not be the right kind for you. If you have a favorite pillow at home, then you may want to bring it along as well. Relaxing entertainment. Pack some things to help you pass the time like a book, magazines, a tablet with movies or series downloaded on it, or a music player.

Eye mask and earplugs. To help you get rest in a busy and bright maternity ward, an eye mask and earplugs could be just what you need during the downtimes of labor, or for your well-deserved shuteye after the delivery.

Choose a front-opening style if you plan to breastfeed. Heavy-duty maternity pads. The hospital will provide some of these, but you may want to pack a few heavy-duty maternity pads, just in case. Initially you may need to change pads every one to two hours, but within a few days, the flow will start to decrease.

Pack several pairs of comfortable underwear that are large enough to wear over heavy-duty maternity pads.