In the mad rush to reach a doctor, the last thing one has time for is to put stuff together for the hospital or nursing home. It is a good idea to plan ahead. Here is a list of things that you should have packed and keep in advance of the day you are ready to deliver your baby.
For the waiting room:
- Hospital pre-registration forms
- Health insurance forms
- Phone list
- Cash and credit cards
For the labour room:
- Watch (with a second hand to time the contractions)
- Massage lotion
- Lollipops (or hard candy)
- Lip balm
- Sipper cup
For the revovery room:
- Your favorite pillow
- Robe
- Nightgowns which open in the front
- Three sets of clothes with front openings.
- Slippers
- Nursing bras
- Breast pads or shields
- Breast pump
- Several pairs of cotton underwear in dark colours.
- Several pairs of socks
- Toiletries – toothbrush/paste, soap, moisturiser, lotion, deodarant, shampoo, hair brush, hair dryer
- Sanitary pads (super-absorbent, preferably extra large ones with wings)
- Towels, face towels, tissues
- Magazines/books
- Snacks
- Bottled water
- Hot water bottle
- Juice
- Big plastic bags for dirty laundry
Don’t forget to document the big day:
- Camcorder / Camera
- Film, batteries
Handy to have around:
- Mild laundry soap
- Petroleum jelly
- Antiseptic for cord care or spirit solution
- Nasal aspirator (an ear syringe may be used)
- Antibacterial ointment
- Cotton and Cotton swabs
- Calibrated dropper, syringe, or spoon for administering medicine
