There are so many different lists out there that tell you what you need to pack in your hospital bag for your labor and birth. As a doula, I have helped many clients prepare for their hospital stay, and I have created the ultimate hospital bag checklist that I promise will have everything you need!
NOTE: You’ll want to be sure that you have your bags packed and in your car no later than 37 weeks.
I say to leave it in your car at this time or sooner because you want to be prepared just in case your doctor keeps you after a prenatal visit or sends you to the hospital because of an emergency. It’s always better to be safe than sorry!
Labor Bag:
*Must-Haves:
Your birth plan (if you have one) and your insurance information.
Eyeglasses –
If you wear contacts, you should bring your glasses along with you. If you end up needing a c-section, some doctors/anesthesiologists ask you to take your contacts out before surgery.
What you’re going to wear during labor –
It will probably get a bit messy, so don’t bring anything too nice to wear in the hospital. If you aren’t sure of your options, here’s more information about what to wear at a hospital birth.
Massage oil or lotion –
If you would like to be massaged during your labor, I recommend bringing either of these so that your partner or doula can massage you. (If you hired a doula, she will probably bring this with her in her doula bag.)
