The moment of delivery can be unexpected, and if you haven't prepared everything you need for your labor, the recovery period and all the time you will spend in the hospital, it can be difficult to do it on the spot without forgetting something. That's why it's advisable to know what to pack in your hospital bag and pack it well in advance of your delivery day.
Preparing your hospital bag is something that should be ready for the 37th week of your pregnancy, because afterwards you might feel uncomfortable and forget something in the process of getting it ready. Here's a list of everything you should consider when packing your hospital bag.
Documentation
The first and most important thing is to bring all the necessary documents to be attended at the hospital where your baby will be born. In the case of a public hospital, you will need to bring documents provided by the government that will allow you to be attended, such as a social security card. In the case of private hospitals, they may require a document from your insurance company or a receipt.
Depending on the hospital, the documentation requirements will change, so it is advisable to check with the hospital where you plan to give birth.
Birth plan
The birth plan you have written can help you communicate your wishes and preferences regarding your birth process to health care providers, such as doctors and nurses.
Clothing
Clothing is central to your birth suitcase, both for you and your baby. It is advisable to bring a couple of gowns and smocks or comfortable sleepwear. As for street clothes, you will probably be wearing the clothes you had on when you entered the hospital, but they are not likely to be in good condition by the time you leave the hospital, so consider bringing a change of clothes to leave the hospital.
Underwear is also something you can't forget. In your suitcase, you should pack several pairs of underwear that are large at the waist. If you are going to breastfeed, also include bras and blouses or nightgowns that allow you to breastfeed comfortably.
Remember to bring several changes of comfortable clothes for your baby, as well as diapers and everything you need to change him/her, sheets or blankets and hats if it is cold (which is common in hospitals).
Hygiene products
During your stay in the hospital, it is likely that they will not have all the products you need for your personal care, so it is recommended that you carry in your suitcase:
- Bath soap.
- Shampoo.
- Conditioner.
- Moisturizing creams.
- Toothbrush.
- Comb or hairbrush.
- Bath towel.
- Overnight sanitary napkins.
- Toothpaste.
Extras
In addition to everything you need for your hygiene and clothing, remember to bring your cell phone, a charger, your reading glasses if you need them, a book or something to pass the time, headphones and maybe a mask and earplugs in case the hospital room is too bright or too noisy.
You may also want to bring a comfortable pillow, as the ones found in hospitals are not always good.
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