You’re having a baby – congratulations!
As exciting as pregnancy can be at times, it can also be exhausting, and virtually every expecting mother looks forward to delivery and getting pregnancy over with. That’s completely normal, and it’s also normal – and recommended – to start preparing early for the big day.
You may or may not have thought about the day itself in detail in terms of how to be ready for it. For example, do you know what to bring with you when you make the trip to the hospital to deliver your baby? Many expecting mothers don’t until the last minute, which can be very stressful.
It’s better to think about preparations sooner rather than later. Here’s what we recommend you take when you go into labor and delivery.
Preparing for the Mother
First, we’ll talk about what to bring for mom.
Here is a good list of things that most mothers will need or want for the big day:
- Bathrobe
- Socks (your feet might get cold!)
- Hairband
- Reading material
- Phone and charger
- Tablet and charger
- Insurance forms
- Photo ID
- Pre-registration forms
- Pillow
- Camera and batteries/charger
- Toiletries
- Makeup (if you want)
- Nursing bra
- Change of underwear
- Snacks
- Nursing pillow
- Nursing pajamas or nightgowns (at least two sets)
- Snacks
- What you’ll wear when you leave the hospital
Many of these items relate to your comfort, so if there’s anything that will make you more comfortable that isn’t on this list, feel free to bring it with you – whatever will help!
Preparing for the Partner and Baby
Your partner will also need some things, such as:
- Snacks
- Reading material
- Pillow
- Cell phone and charger
- Tablet and charger
- Change of clothes
- Change (for vending machines)
- Camera with batteries/charger
And you’ll need to pack things for your new baby! You can consider bringing:
- Swaddling blanket or swaddler
- Car seat
- Infant-sized coat
- Infant-sized hat or stocking cap
- What he/she will wear when going home
You want both your partner and your baby to be very comfortable. After all, the big day should be a great day for everyone.
Tips for Being Prepared
When delivery day approaches, keep a bag packed and ready to go at all times. Make sure it’s accessible, and if you leave the house, don’t leave home without it.
Make sure your family members are on the same page when it comes to the big day. This includes making arrangements so that no matter when you go into labor, someone can be with you. No one wants to start the process alone.
Having a baby is an exciting time, and by following these tips, you can be prepared for the big day whenever it comes!
Regional Medical Center helps pregnant mothers-to-be every day. Learn more about our maternity care services and how you can bring your new child into the world with a caring staff of professionals.