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Week by Week

Ask A Childbirth Educator
Questions and Answer

Q.Could you please send me a list of Items that I should have packed in a bag to go to the hospital when I deliver. Also, how soon should I have this packed.

A.

• Comfy big shirt to labor in that you don't mind getting messed up. (more comfortable than the hospital gown)
• Clothes to go home in (remember you will still have a belly though it will be smaller)
• a nursing gown for after the baby is born
• Toiletries: toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo soap etc.
• Big wooly socks or slippers---hospital floors are cold
• Food you can eat if you are a vegetarian--hospitals are not too advanced on vegan cuisine Its a good idea to have something with you anyway if you deliver after the kitchen is closed--most women are starving after delivery.
• clothes for baby: onesie, stretchie, hat, socks, any other outfit required by the weather.
• Nursing bra
• Pad and pen (for whatever---you'd be surprised how often this comes in handy)
• car seat for baby
• massage oil or creme, pick a scent that you really like
• hot water bottle, great for backache in labor
• if you have long hair, bring a scrunchie or hair clip, you might want your hair out of your face when in labor.
• CD's or tapes of music
• anything else you find really comforting---a book, stuffed animal for baby, picture.

When to pack it? Have the basics in place (hot water bottle etc) a week before you are due. It might be easier to keep your things in a general area for easy packing when you begin labor or reach your due date, instead of packing up weeks ahead and then feeling like you are watching the clock for the baby. Have everything you need in the house by three weeks before you due date, just in case.

Good Luck!

Karen Klimsak-Ungar, CCE has been a certified childbirth educator for Birth Works® since 1996. She is currently Managing Editor for the Birth Works newsletter, sits on the Birth Works Board of Directors, and serves on their National Trainee Review Committee. A happily married mother of two, she also continues to teach Birth Works classes as well as private classes.

Karen will answer your questions on fertility, pregnancy, birth, breastfeeding and babies. Her advice does not take the place of your practitioner. Personal answers will not always be possible.