Blogs

HOSPITAL PACKING LIST

Pre-registration forms from the hospital: it’s nice to have these filled out as much as possible, so you’re not worrying about it in your critical time.

Things for Mommy:

For use during Labor: (pack these in a separate bag from your suitcase, which may not be handy
during labor)

• Chapstick or lip gloss
• Toothbrush
• Warm socks
• Powder or lotion for massage
• A watch / mobile phone to time contractions
• Beverage can / rolling pin for rolling pressure on back
• Snacks (khakra, nuts, dryfruits, juice, etc) for yourself and Partner (if allowed)
• Hard candy/gum: mom’s mouth can get dry at times, so having mint gum or hard candies or lollipops around will help put moisture back in your mouth.
• Books / magazines: there may be downtime before and after the birth of the baby. This isn’t an essential item, but it could be a great way to keep your mind occupied.
• Relaxing music

FOR POSTPARTUM STAY:
• Nightgown or robe, slippers – if it’s allowed by the hospital, it’s always nice to be comfortable in your own clothes, especially after giving birth to your baby.
• Nursing bra: this is a great way to support swollen, tender breasts.
• Nursing pillow: these can be used whether you are breast feeding or bottle feeding; either way they reduce the strain on your arms, neck, and back when feeding your baby.
• Toiletries: this could include things like hair ties, toothbrush, toothpaste (for you and your partner), deodorant, soap, cosmetics and sanitary pads. You won’t know how long you’ll be there until that time has come.
• Socks: pack extra socks. Hospitals are cold, and you don’t want to run out of socks if you’re going to be in the hospital for a few days.
• Pillow’s from home: it’s nice to have familiar things with you in such an unfamiliar environment. Also you will need plenty of pillows during labor, to help you change positions and use them as support while leaning over or resting in between contractions.
• Reading and Writing material
• Going home clothes and shoes

Things for baby:
1. Diapers, Nappies, Cotton wool / wipes: Take along either disposable or cloth newborn diapers with you.
2. Clothes – Jhabla / onesies
3. Swaddle cloth
4. Outfit to go home: bring home your baby in his or her first outfit.
5. Hat: babies lose most of their internal heat through their head. Having a little knitted hat or beanie is perfect to keep the warmth in.
6. Booties or socks: bring some booties or socks for your baby.
7. Receiving blanket: newborns love to be wrapped up tightly in a warm blanket, especially right after birth.

Things for your better half:
1. Change of clothes:
2. Toiletries: toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, and soap are great to bring along.
3. Snacks: again, you won’t know how long you’ll be there until that time comes. Having plenty of snacks around can occupy you while you’re waiting.
4. Video and cameras: mom’s counting on you to document the moments. Make sure you bring extra batteries, film, tapes, and chargers.
5. Baby book: to put your baby’s first footprints and handprints in this book to help get you started.
6. Music & Speakers: soothing music will help mom and you before and after the birth.
7. Massage oils: labor classes recommend the use of massage oils because they can help alleviate back pain. Mom will love you for it, too.

Things for siblings
Crayons, markers, coloring books, and toys: you may end up spending more time at the hospital than you originally thought. These are great tools to help siblings pass the time before they get to see their new brother or sister.
A gift: its a great idea to give the sibling a gift saying its given by the new baby. This helps to get the relationship started on a positive and happy note, especially when the first child is not over 5 years old. It could be a book or anything small which the older child will love. Now that you have your bag ready, you can focus on all the amazing experiences that await you, like holding your baby for the first time. All the best!!!

OTHER EQUIPMENT (AT HOME):
• Changing Table
• Car Seat
• Trolley for keeping baby clothes
• Soft front pack for baby carrier
• Carriage or stroller
• Liquid crocin
• Thermometer
• Baby nail clippers
• Massage oil or lotion
• Lots of small napkins

Seema Kazi Rangnekar, CCCE, CPFE, CLE, USA Trademark & Copyright 2023
Samã Birthing & Beyond, Bungalow no. 1, Jukar Marg, Juhu, Near Silver Beach café, Mumbai 400049,
Mobile: 09821619718, Email: [email protected], Website: www.samabirthingandbeyond.com, Facebook: www.facebook/samabirthing&beyond, Instagram/YouTube: samabirthing