Packing a complete maternity bag can help make your labor and delivery less chaotic and more comfortable. The bag you choose should be big enough to carry your belongings as well as clothes and other essential items for your newborn. Place the packed bag near the door so you don't overlook it when the time comes to have your baby.
When to Pack
The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends that an expectant mother experiencing a normal pregnancy pack her maternity bag around week 35. If you are expecting twins or your doctor is concerned about early delivery, pack your maternity bag sooner in expectation of an earlier date. Packing the bag around week 35, when there is less stress about your impending hospital stay, will help you be more detailed, focused and less apt to forget important items.
Clothes for Mom
You should pack a comfortable dressing gown or two to wear after your delivery. If you have a long labor, it can be comforting to wear your own dressing gown before the delivery as well. Pack slippers or a couple pairs of nonslip socks; doctors sometimes recommend walking the hospital halls during labor to help the baby move into position. If you are planning to breastfeed, pack a nursing bra, breast pads and maybe a nursing pillow for extra comfort. Pack a comfortable outfit to wear when you leave the hospital for home; the clothes you wore during your first trimester and the beginning of your second often fit a post-delivery belly.
Clothes for Baby
Take time to plan the details of your baby's first outfit. For example, picking an outfit with feet will keep you from looking for tiny socks when your newborn kicks them off. Dress your baby for the weather. If you will be bringing him home in the winter, pack an outer suit or jacket. Pack a few hats because a baby loses most of his body heat through his head. Receiving blankets are important to have on hand for swaddling. Pack a few newborn-size diapers; the hospital has diapers, but you might want to experiment with the type you will be using at home.
Toiletries
Pack as if you are going to be on vacation for a few days. Your toothbrush and toothpaste, hairbrush, shampoo and conditioner, soap and deodorant are all essentials. You might also want to pack some lotion for massage and nipple cream if you plan to breastfeed. If you are going to bottle feed, pack a couple of bottles for you and the nurses to use in the hospital. If you wear glasses or contact lenses, make sure you bring them along.
Miscellaneous Items
Bring a camera and/or video recorder to preserve the memories of your labor, delivery and the first faces your baby makes. If you will be using equipment like a birthing ball, be sure to include this in your maternity luggage. Pack an extra set of comfortable clothes and some snacks for the baby's father if he is attending the birth as well. If you don't have a cell phone, pack a prepaid phone card and contact list of people you want to call right away about the birth of your child.
