5 Essential Things To Have Before You Go For Labour And Delivery

Hospital bag? Check. Baby clothes? Check. Diapers? Check. If you're like most soon-to-be parents, you've probably spent weeks – if not months – getting everything ready for your new arrival. But have you thought about what you'll need to pack for yourself for labour and delivery? While every hospital and birth is different, there are a few key items you'll want to make sure you have in your bag to help make the experience as smooth as possible. From snacks to keep your energy up to comfortable clothes to help you relax, read on for a list of five must-haves for your hospital bag.

Maternity clothes

There are a few things to consider when packing maternity clothes for labour and delivery. Firstly, you will want to make sure that you have comfortable clothes that you can move around in easily. Secondly, you will want to pack clothes that are easy to get off and on. You may be spending a lot of time in the hospital, and you will want to be able to change into different clothes easily. Thirdly, you will want to pack clothes that are easy to wash. This is because you may be sweating a lot during labour, and you will want to be able to wash your clothes easily.

Some good items to pack in your hospital bag for labour and delivery include loose fitting shirts, shorts or pants, and nursing tanks. You may also want to pack a robe or nightgown for after the birth of your baby.

Birth plan

It is a good idea to have a birth plan in mind before you go into labour. This will help you to communicate your wishes to the medical staff. You can include things like whether you would like to use pain relief during labour, or whether you have any preferences for the delivery room.

Your birth plan does not have to be set in stone, and you can change your mind about things as labour progresses. However, it is helpful to have an idea of what you would like beforehand. That way, everyone is on the same page and there are no surprises.

 

Toiletries

You will want to pack a few toiletries in your hospital bag for labour and delivery. This includes items like shampoo, conditioner, soap, a toothbrush and toothpaste. You may also want to pack lotion, deodorant and a hairbrush. If you wear makeup, you will want to pack the essentials like foundation, mascara and lip balm.

These items will help you to feel fresh and presentable during labour and delivery. They will also come in handy after you have your baby and are ready to go home.

 

Snacks and drinks

When you're in labour, you'll need energy to get through it. Pack some snacks and drinks that will give you the energy you need. Choose foods that are high in protein and complex carbohydrates, such as nuts, seeds, whole grain bread, fruit, and vegetables. Avoid sugary foods and drinks, as they will make you feel more tired.

It's also important to stay hydrated during labour. Pack a water bottle or two so that you can stay hydrated throughout your labour and delivery. You might also want to pack some sports drinks to replenish your electrolytes.

 

A support person

One of the most important things to pack in your hospital bag for labour and delivery is a support person. This person will be with you throughout your labour and delivery, providing emotional and physical support. They will also be able to help you with any questions or concerns that you may have.

Having a support person with you during labour and delivery can make a big difference. They can help you stay calm and focused, and they can provide you with the encouragement you need to get through it. If you are planning on having a support person with you, be sure to pack them in your hospital bag!

Night gown and bath robe

One of the most important things to pack in your hospital bag for labour and delivery is a nightgown or bath robe. You will want to be comfortable during labour and delivery, and a nightgown or bath robe will help you to feel more comfortable. You may also want to pack a pair of slippers to keep your feet warm.

Another important thing to pack in your hospital bag is some form of pain relief. Labour can be very painful, so you will want to have something on hand to help you deal with the pain. Many women opt for natural methods of pain relief, such as hypnobirthing or water birth. However, you may also want to pack some medication just in case.

You will also need to pack some essentials for after the birth. This includes things like diapers, wipes, and a change of clothes for baby. You may also want to pack a going-home outfit for yourself. Don't forget to pack your toiletries too!

Overall, there are several important things to pack in your hospital bag for labour and delivery. By packing these items, you can help to make the experience more comfortable and enjoyable.

Sanitary Pads

1. Sanitary Pads: You will definitely need some sanitary pads for after the birth. Make sure to pack a few in your hospital bag.

2. Maternity pads: Maternity pads are thicker and more absorbent than regular sanitary pads. They can be very helpful after the birth.

3. Disposable underwear: Disposable underwear can be very helpful after you give birth. They will help keep you clean and dry.

4. Perineal wash: A perineal wash can be very soothing after you give birth. It can help to clean and heal the area.

5. Sitz bath: A sitz bath can also be very helpful after you give birth. It can help to soothe and heal the area.

Conclusion

Packing for labour and delivery can be a daunting task, but it doesn't have to be. By keeping these five items in your hospital bag, you'll be prepared for whatever comes your way. From lip balm to snacks to comfortable clothes, these items will help make your labour and delivery experience as positive as possible. Read more articles from our blogs for useful suggestions to make your pregnancy time a bit more easier.