Whilst you technically only need a swift ride to the hospital and the support of your obstetrician to have your baby, your whole birth experience can be much smoother if you plan ahead by packing a hospital bag. Each expectant mom's hospital bag might be a bit different based upon her specific needs and preferences, but there are some things that are useful and important for virtually all mums. Here's a list of things to pack in your hospital labour bag.
The Paperwork
There are several important documents that you'll need to have on hand when you leave for the hospital. These include:
- Antenatal card: this card is given to you by your obstetrician at your first antenatal visit. It gives your hospital caregivers important information like your due date, your blood type, your medical history, and ultrasound results at a glance.
- Your birth plan: whilst you know exactly what you want during the birth, having a birth plan on paper means that you don't have to continually explain the plans to others. Have at least 3 extra copies, as you might need to provide this to multiple members of your medical team
- Medicare card: have your medicare card immediately available, as you'll need this to check in to the hospital.
- Health insurance cards: if you have private health cover, you'll need to bring proof of this cover. Whilst a copy of the policy is fine, it's much easier to have the card on hand.
The Labour Aids
Whether you're having the maximum pain relief or you're aiming for a drug-free birth, there are some things that can make the labour process smoother and easier. These can include:
- Lip balm: lip balm can soothe painful and cracked lips, a common side effect of heavy breathing whilst in labour.
- Lollies: many women find that sucking on a lolly whilst in labour helps with distraction a bit.
- Music: make sure that you'll have your favourite music during labour. This can mean adding music to your mobile device or even bringing in a portable CD player if you prefer. Don't forget portable speakers or earphones.
- Labour clothes: choose the most comfortable possible clothes to labour in. Opt for something very lightweight as you'll quickly grow overheated otherwise.
The New Mum Items
After the baby has arrived, there are several things that you'll want to have close at hand, including:
- Stretchsuits for baby: pack at least 2-3 newborn size stretchsuits for baby to wear whilst in the hospital.
- Baby's "going home" outfit: choose an outfit for baby to wear home from the hospital.
- Extra clothes for you: you'll probably want to discard your labouring clothes and freshen up as soon as possible after labour, so have a few extra outfits in your bag. As with the labour clothes, comfort is key.
- Newborn size nappies and baby wipes: many hospitals supply these, but it's always wise to have extras on hand for your trip home.
- Pre-filled bottles: if you're bottle feeding, most hospitals provide you with bottled formula samples to take home. However, in case your hospital does not, purchase some pre-filled formula bottles to have for the trip home.
Preparing for your baby's birth is exciting -- and often a bit nerve wracking as well. By making sure your hospital bag is packed with the items above, you'll feel more confident about heading into the birth prepared. Talk to your obstetrician to make sure that you've packed everything you need—and enjoy your time as a new mum!
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