


Some toiletries may be provided by the hospital, but if you have favorites, you’re going to want to make sure you have them with you.Īt the same time, some items you use on a regular basis might not be offered by the hospital, so it’s best to be prepared by including them in your packed bag before the big day arrives. Labor and delivery is nothing like going on vacation, but some of the items that should have a place on your labor bag hospital checklist will be the same as those you pack for a trip. You might need to take one if your labor lasts for awhile and you could be advised to continue taking them if you’re planning to breastfeed. Finally, toss your prenatal vitamins in your bag as well. Tennis balls provide similar benefits and are small and compact enough to find a space in your hospital bag. You might find that it provides some relief in your back while you’re laboring. It can’t hurt to include it on your list though. If this is something you want to have on hand, make sure you have your labor ball with your bag before the big day.Ī back massager is another great item to have on hand, though it’s not necessary and some women may find that they don’t like the feeling while they’re in the throes of labor. The main purpose of a birthing ball is to provide comfort during labor by easing pain and pressure. They certainly aren’t required, but it’s a good idea to discuss which ones might be beneficial for you with your obstetrician so you can add them to your labor hospital bag checklist for mom and baby.Ī birthing ball is something you might find a lifesaver while you’re in labor. Many mothers go through labor without any of these items, while others want to have them all. However, there are no guarantees when it comes to having a baby so you could be in labor for just a few hours or it could drag into the next day.Īn important addition to your labor hospital bag checklist for mom is the essentials you’ll need to get through your labor, no matter how long it happens to last. If you’re a first time mom, you can expect it to last a bit longer than if you’ve given birth before. Labor will be the most difficult part of your hospital stay. A few hair ties to keep your hair out of your face while you push and a tube of lip balm will also be items you’ll be glad you have. You’re not going to fit back into your pre-pregnancy clothes so a maternity outfit is your best bet. Don’t forget a few towels so you can shower and a loose fitting outfit to wear home from the hospital. You might even throw in a pair of slippers if you plan to walk during your labor, which will help keep your feet warm and clean.Ī nursing bra will become important once your little one has arrived and a hoodie or sweater will help keep you warm if you get chilled, which can often happen in air conditioned hospital rooms. You’ll also want a couple of changes of underwear and socks for the same reason. Keep in mind that labor can be sweaty work so you’ll probably want a clean pair to put on after you shower and settle in for your recovery. Of utmost importance is a pair or two of soft, comfortable pajamas. For all of these reasons, including plenty of comfy clothing on your hospital bag checklist for mom is something you’ll thank yourself for as you progress through your labor and have your new little one. Once your baby is born, you’re going to be a bit sore and likely have at least another day in the hospital before you can head home. If you have an epidural, you’ll have to stay put until it wears off. You could spend many hours, perhaps a day or two, in your hospital bed waiting for your baby to be ready.

Giving birth can take quite some time and it’s going to be strenuous when it comes time to deliver.
