Part of a well thought-out birth plan involves selecting items to include in your baby bag. Because you will need items for labor and delivery in addition to those you will use after the birth and when returning home, Childbirth.org recommends separating items and packing them in two bags. In case you go into labor early, you may want to consider selecting and packing your baby bag when you reach your 35th week of pregnancy.
Documentation
Hospital admissions documents include personal identification cards, employment information and insurance information. If your hospital allows it, you may want to consider preregistering so your file will be complete before going to the hospital and you will have one less thing to worry about.
Labor Aids
Items you and your coach will need during labor and delivery include your focal point, a timer or watch with a second hand, lip balm, massage oil or lotion, hair bands if you have long hair and a CD that contains relaxing nature sounds or soothing music. While you may not enjoy watching your coach munch on snack items while you are in the middle of hard labor, consider putting a few in your baby bag anyway to keep your coach at your side and not down the hall in search of food at an inopportune time. If you plan to tape the birth, you will need your camcorder, as well as extra tapes and batteries, or a camera for still pictures.
Contact List
After your baby arrives, you will need a list of people to notify. Pregnancy.org recommends writing out your contact list in order of importance. Since most hospitals will not allow you to use your cell phone inside the hospital, be sure to purchase and pack a calling card for long distance calls.
Personal Hygiene Items
Personal hygiene items, such as your toothbrush, toothpaste, dental floss, a brush and comb, lipstick and moisturizer are important to keep you looking and feeling fresh.
Post-delivery Clothing
You will need bras and a few pairs of clean underwear. If you plan to nurse your new baby, pack one or two nursing bras and disposable nursing pads. If you prefer not to wear hospital attire, pack a nightgown, socks or slippers and a robe. Your coach or partner may also appreciate a change of clothing.
Baby Book
Pack your baby book or journal and a pen. Record the birth experience and your feelings while the details are still fresh in your mind. In addition, ask the nurse to help you place your baby's foot and/or handprints in your baby book.
Going-Home Outfit
You can include the items you need for the trip home in your postpartum bag or set them aside and have your partner bring them to you on release day. When choosing the outfit you will wear home, WomensHealthCareTopics.com recommends comfort over style. Most women do not immediately return to a normal, pre-pregnancy weight for at least a few months so choose an outfit that you wore when you were five to six months pregnant.
Baby Clothing
Clothing you choose for your new baby depends on the time of year. According to Pregnancy.org, your new baby will need a hat or cap, even during warm-weather months, to help regulate body temperature. Consider packing two outfits or sleepers in case your baby soils one after you dress him. Socks or booties, receiving blankets in a weight appropriate for weather conditions and a bunting or snowsuit for winter months round out your baby clothing requirements. You may also want to add a few diapers and wipes if you plan to make any stops between the hospital and home.
