What to Take to the Hospital
Pack your bags for your hospital stay at the start of the ninth month.
Please leave all valuables at home
Labor Room Kit
- Chapstick/Vaseline for dry, chapped lips
- Lotion for massage
- Warm socks
- Nutritious food for your labor partner (avoid foods with distinct odors)
- Sour lollipops for quick energy and to help keep your mouth moist
-
Tennis balls or other firm objects for back counter pressure
(Tennis balls placed inside a sock make an effective and inexpensive back roller) - Telephone numbers and a telephone credit card
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, mouthwash, breath spray
- Camera and film, camcorder
- Tie backs and clips for long hair
- Hand fan
- Cassette tapes (**or CDs and CD player)with favorite relaxation music
- Tub if desired and not available at particular hospital
**Be sure to check with the hospital regarding their policy about using electrical appliances brought from home.
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For Mother
- Two nursing bras if breastfeeding or one regular bra
- One or two nightgowns if desired (button down fronts are nice if breastfeeding)
- Bathrobe
- Slippers
- Toilette articles; hairdryer (Be sure to check with the hospital regarding their policy about using electrical appliances brought from home)
- Address book with phone numbers
- Calling card
- Loose fitting outfit for going home
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For Labor Partner
- Pajamas (if planning on staying overnight)
- Robe
- Slippers
- Changes of clothes
- Toilet articles
- Bathing suit (if mom showers while in labor)
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For Baby
- If using cloth diapers, two for going home (hospitals only use disposable diapers)
- If using cloth diapers, two diaper pins or Velcro diaper covers
- One undershirt
- One receiving blanket
- Outer blanket or snuggles with legs
- A hat and pair of booties
- A car seat for the baby's ride home and all car rides (California State Law)
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