What to pack for the delivery

by Krystyn on February 1, 2012

We’ve got our crib set up, the car seat is installed, and I’m 38.5 weeks pregnant (yes, the .5 weeks counts).

But, I haven’t packed my bag for the hospital yet. I guess I should get on this.

This being my third delivery, I’d like to think I know what to bring to the hospital (should I mention this is coming from an overpacker?). Trust me, you are leaving with way more that you get there with that you don’t want to have extra stuff.

I know most of you are already moms, but I’m thinking there are quite a few of you on the road to delivery again, or this is your first time, so while I was making my list for myself, I thought I’d type it up and share with you.

I know some people recommend a labor and delivery bag and then a recovery bag, but I’m throwing it all in one. I was so glad to have my toothbrush and slippers with delivery number two.

Talking no more, here’s the list:

Driver’s license and insurance card. Gotta have these.
Camera and phone with respective chargers.
Toiletries. Think about what you use everyday…shampoo, soap, brush, toothbrush and toothpaste, contacts and solution (and an extra pair) and glasses, deodorant, etc. The hospital I deliver at doesn’t provide any of these, so bring what makes you comfy.
A robe. Seriously. This is so handy. During delivery if you walk around (so your bum isn’t exposed) and in your room to throw it on to keep warm, after nursing, etc.
Slippers. Your feet might swell, but you’ll want something on them to walk around.
Something for “the girls”. If you are nursing, nursing tops/bras, lanolin cream, breast pads. If you aren’t nursing, I imagine you’d want a compression bra (let me know if this is wrong, I don’t have experience here).
1-2 outfits. I wore pajamas/track suits in the hospital. For your going home outfit, bring something that fit mid-pregnancy. Let’s just say that belly that took 9 months to grow won’t shrink in 1-2 days.
Pajamas. You want to be comfy lounging in the hospital. Some people prefer to wear the gowns, but I find them quite uncomfortable.
Socks.
Going home outfit for the baby. You want it to be season appropriate.
A blanket for the baby.
Presents for older siblings from the baby (yikes, I’d better get on this).
Car seat. You have to have a car seat to leave the hospital.

Now, what did I forget? Anything important? I need to know like NOW:)

You can find Krystyn at Really, Are You Serious? And, yes, she’s serious! Follow on twitter and facebook, too. And, also doing all things graphic design at Krizzy Designs.