What to Pack in Your Delivery Bag

The third trimester is a period full of excitement, preparation (likely some physical discomfort), and — most importantly —  anticipation as you eagerly await the arrival of your baby. Along with getting your body ready for delivery and making sure your nursery is equipped for those first few weeks, let’s not forget to prepare for the actual birth.

Whether your birthing plan includes a trip to the hospital, a birthing center with your midwife or at home, there are a number of things you will want to have ready to go in case you’re in a hurry to get out the door.  Below are some of the biggest must-haves for your birthing bag — including the necessities you’d want if you have a planned caesarean birth (C-section) — items to pack for your spouse/partner, and of course, everything needed for bringing your newborn home. To be on the safe side, you’ll want to have these items packed and ready by 36 weeks.

Mom-to-be essentials

• ID and necessary paperwork. Don’t forget both your (and your partner’s) ID, insurance card, birth plan, any requested paperwork from the hospital or documents detailing important medical histories/conditions and the name of the pediatrician or clinic you plan to have your baby see after delivery.
• Clothes. You’re going to want an assortment of clothing to wear while waiting for your baby’s arrival, during labor and for those first few hours or days after delivering. A loose, short-sleeve nightgown or T-shirt are best for active labor (short sleeves allow for easy IV access). While the hospital will supply you with a robe, you may prefer to bring your own. It is also helpful to have loose-fitting clothing, such as sweatpants and joggers, that will not irritate your skin in the event of a C-section. Loose-fitting, high-waisted underwear are also good to bring along that will fit you postpartum and sit well above any possible incision site. Slip-on shoes, like slippers or flip flops, are helpful to have while in your delivery room and for the trip home, as it is very common to experience some swelling in your feet and legs after birth.
• Hygiene items. Given you’ll likely be at your hospital or birthing center for a few days, make sure to pack a spare toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, eyeglasses and/or contact lens supplies, if you need them, hair ties and lip   balm. You may also consider bringing some moisturizing lotion or essential oils. To help promote a calm atmosphere, you can also bring your home diffusers.
• Cellphone and extra charger. Whenever you’re ready to let your loved ones know your baby has arrived, you’ll want to make sure your phone hasn’t lost its charge during your stay. A lot of mothers also want to keep their phone charged and on hand to take photos. A charger with a long cord that can reach around/across your bed is especially handy.
• Sanitary pads and perineal spray. Often these are provided to new mothers by the hospital, but you can of course pack a preferred brand or style if you wish.
• Breastfeeding items. If you plan on breastfeeding, you’ll want to make sure you’ve packed nursing-friendly bras, tank tops and nipple cream if you have a particular one you want to use. Along with that, having your breast pump with you after delivery can be helpful in case your baby is having a difficult time feeding. Having your breast pump will help ensure that you have the correct fit for your breast. (Note that many insurance plans cover the cost of buying breast pump, so you may want to call your insurance ahead of time to ask about that..

Newborn bag

• Going home outfit. You’ll want to make sure your baby has a full outfit to wear home, including booties if their outfit doesn’t cover their feet. An outfit with pants can make it easier to buckle baby into their car seat, and make the ride more comfortable as well.
• Hat, mittens and blanket for car ride home. Regardless of the season, your newborn is still adjusting to the cooler temperatures outside the womb. Pack a soft knit hat, mittens and a baby blanket for their trip home.
• Diaper bag. While your diaper bag doesn’t need to come to the hospital fully loaded with everything you will want to have in it in the future, having it handy doesn’t hurt. Your hospital or birthing center may send you home with a supply of diapers, wipes, as well as paperwork and handouts.
• Pre-installed car seat. In a sudden, rushed trip to the hospital or birthing center, you would hate to forget the car seat before leaving. Having the car seat properly installed and ensuring that both you and your partner know how to use it as early as 36 weeks will ensure that you are ready when the time comes to drive your baby home. Please refer to your provider or nurse for car seat check stations near you if you have questions about installation.

Supplies for your spouse/partner

• Snacks. While you’ll be provided with meals, packing extra snacks (including energizing, nutritious and comfort options) will help ensure they’re at their best to help you during delivery.
• Electrolyte drinks and water bottles. Drinks like Gatorade are great in helping both of you stay energized during these long days, along with refillable water bottles to stay hydrated.
• Notepad and pen. It may be important to take some notes while talking with your care team after delivery, such as appointment reminders for your newborn or breastfeeding and swaddling tips. A notebook is also a good place to keep your pre-delivery checklist to make sure you’ve contacted anyone you need to, such as a dog-sitter, your boss or family (if so desired).
• Pillow. As it is likely you’ll both be there for a few days, your partner may want to pack a pillow to help them get some sleep, too.
• Camera, phone and extra chargers. If you have a high-quality camera or video camera you wish to bring, make sure it is charged and packed with extra batteries/charger. Don’t forget to pack an extra phone charger with a long power cord as well.
• Clothes. Your partner will also want to pack a few comfortable outfits to wear during delivery, in the days after and for the trip home.
• Distractions to pass the time. Some hospitals or birthing centers come equipped with Bluetooth speakers, but if you have your own portable one, music can be a good way to distract yourselves or have calming sounds during labor. A deck of cards, iPad for movies/games, crossword or Sudoku puzzles or books are a great way for both of you to help pass the time if labor goes on for a while.

In case you forget anything, it also doesn’t hurt to have someone on stand-by to make deliveries. Check in with your designated family member or friend either before you leave, after you check in or let them know you’re in labor at home, so they know to keep an eye on their phone.

Editor’s note: This article is part of a series intended for expecting patients in the Inland Northwest region. Services outlined may vary in other MultiCare locations.