As your due date gets closer, it’s a good idea to have a bag already packed for your hospital or birthing center stay. You’ll be ready to go when the time comes!
Don’t overpack; just bring the necessities (leave jewelry and other valuables at home). Below is a general checklist of what to bring.
For You:
__ Your birth plan if you have one (multiple copies to give to your practitioner and nurses)
__ Your insurance card, I.D., and any required hospital admissions documents
__ Your baby’s pediatrician’s name and contact information
__ Cell phone and/or camera (don’t forget a charger or extra batteries)
__ Snacks for your partner
__ A comfort item, such as your pillow, for you — you may want your own
__ Your cord blood banking kit, if you're banking your baby’s cord blood
__ Toiletries: Toothbrush and toothpaste; hairbrush; your own soap, shampoo and conditioner (if you prefer this to what the hospital may provide)
__ Clothing: Extra pairs of underwear and a nursing bra; hair clips or ties to keep your hair out of your face; nightgown or PJs; socks and slippers; a comfortable going-home outfit (you’ll still look a bit pregnant at first so plan for that)
__ Breast pump and nipple cream, if you plan to breastfeed. A hospital nurse or lactation consultant can show you how to use the pump so you’ll know once you’re back home. Don't have a pump yet? You can order your insurance-provided pump through www.ordermypump.com
For Baby:
__ Clothing: Going-home outfit, including socks or booties and a receiving blanket; extra layers if the weather is colder
__ A few newborn diapers and a pack of baby wipes (though the hospital also provides these for while you are in the hospital)
__ Correctly installed rear-facing Infant car seat — the hospital won’t discharge your baby without seeing this in your vehicle
This message is not intended to provide individual medical advice. Always seek the advice of a physician or qualified healthcare provider for any questions you have about your health or medical condition, your breastfeeding issues and your infant's health. Never disregard, avoid or delay contacting a doctor or other qualified professional because of something you have read in our emails, webpages or other electronic communications.
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