Delivering a baby is an intense time. Being well-prepared is a key to making the experience smooth and comfortable. Pregnancy Today recommends packing two hospital bags before the big day. One bag is filled with items you will need for labor and delivery. The other bag is devoted to items you will want in the maternity ward after you welcome baby into the world.
Paperwork
Assuming you are not in an emergency situation, when you arrive at your birthing center or hospital for delivery, you will be checked in. You will most likely be asked to present your health insurance card and possibly a photo ID. Take any pre-registration forms with you, according to the American Pregnancy Association. If you and your partner created a birthing plan, pack it in your bag as well as any paperwork or packaging for a blood cord donation kit if you elected to preserve your umbilical cord blood.
Comfort Items
As your baby makes his way down the birthing canal you will turn to anything that brings you comfort. There are things you can bring from home to help make this sometimes uncomfortable process a little more relaxing. Bring your favorite pair of slippers or socks. Not only will they keep your feet warm during the delivery, but you may end up walking the halls to allow gravity to help the process. You won't want to walk through the hospital or birthing center in bare feet. You may also want a comfortable bath robe to keep you covered and warm.
A mix of calming songs may also help you if the delivery gets intense. Pack some music and something to play it on, suggests Baby Center. Having pictures of your other children, pets or loved ones next to your delivery bed may also help you relax and focus during the delivery. Your own pillow with your favorite pillow case can also bring some comfort to a foreign delivery bed. But don't pack precious linens or anything that you can't wash.
Cameras
If you are comfortable preserving this once-in-a-lifetime event on film, remember your cameras and anything that goes with them. Decide in advance if you want still pictures, video or both. Make sure you have plenty of film or memory sticks and charged batteries. Bring the instruction manual for your cameras just in case there is a technical problem as the big moment approaches.
