What To Bring To The Hospital For Baby Delivery

Most women are in the hospital for 24-48 hours after delivery. Between recovering from the birth and getting some rest, you will probably not have time to address baby announcement cards. Most people will not expect to see the day after a baby is born so no point in weighing down the suitcase with them. Books are another thing you may want to leave at home. They are heavy and if you have questions, someone on the hospital staff would be more than happy to show you techniques or answer your questions.

Giving birth, whether natural or cesarean section, is messy and hospital laundries are equipped to handle stained clothing. Leave the pretty nightgowns at home or bring one for later. Use the hospitals gowns for labor and delivery. A robe is something to bring though. The rooms may be cold or you wish to wander down the hall to visit the nursery and want some modesty. Slippers or warm socks are another item to bring. One or two outfits for the baby to have pictures taken in and for going home are needed. Do not forget a cap as babies have a hard time regulating their temperature and heat escapes from the head. Save the lace-trimmed or fancy suits for later at home, no point in bringing too many sets of clothing for a short stay.

During labor, you may want several easy snacks on hand. Honey sticks are great. They are easy to eat and give a great energy boost. Packages of cheese crackers or any other easy to pack and eat snacks are another good idea. Cool water will be easier to drink if you bring a sport bottle or a cup with a straw. Most delivery floors have an ice machine. Delivery rooms may have a radio that plays tapes or CDs. Ask ahead of time during the tour and bring along whatever music you will want to hear.

After the baby is born, a small pack of diapers is typically included so that is one less item to bring. A diaper bag with free giveaways may also be part of the delivery and stay. Be sure to ask the administrators or nurses ahead of time so you will know what is provided in the way of pacifiers and bottles, if wanted, or other baby items. A baby blanket so the nurse can demonstrate how to swaddle your newborn, although the hospital may give you one. If you are planning to breastfeed, bring a nursing bra, pads and lanolin cream. The lactation consultants will be able to give you samples if you forget though.

Do not forget cameras or camcorders. If nothing else, purchase a one-use camera and place in the bag. A baby book is handy to record visitors and gifts. A nurse would probably help you place the baby's footprints on the appropriate page, as they have to take footprints for filing paperwork. Save the thank-you notes for after getting home with the baby. Comfortable clothes for the mother to wear home. A car seat installed and waiting in the car is a necessity. Most states will not allow a newborn to be taken from a hospital without a seat installed.