What to Take to the Hospital

Heading to the hospital once you’re in labor can feel pretty hectic. You'll want to have your bag ready to grab when it’s go time. Check our list of items you’re likely to want or need during your hospital stay as you pack your bag. Make sure to check with your birth center regarding policies on electrical appliances brought from home. And don't forget to double check your wallet for your ID and insurance cards.  

Items you may want during labor: 

• Cell phone, camera, laptop and their chargers
• Hair ties or clips for long hair
• Hand-held or rechargeable fan
• Hard candy or lollipops for quick energy and to help keep your mouth moist
• Lip balm or Vaseline for dry, chapped lips
• Lotion or body oil for massage
• Magazines, books or playing cards
• Pillow
• Tennis or lacrosse balls or other firm objects for back counter pressure
• Warm socks
• Watch or clock with second hand
• Water bottle 

For Mother

• Clothes: Bathrobe and slippers, nursing bras if you plan to breastfeed, button-down nightgowns or pajamas, underwear, loose-fitting clothes for going home, bathing suit top or sports bra for showering
• Personal care items: Nursing pads, sanitary pads, medications, glasses and contacts, contact solution
• Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, brush or comb, hairdryer, cosmetics

For Your Labor Partner

• Bathing suit (if mom showers while in labor)
• Changes of clothes, sweatshirt, extra socks
• Pajamas, robe and slippers (if you plan on staying overnight)
• Snacks (avoid foods with strong odors)
• Toiletries

For Your Baby

• A car seat for the baby's ride home and all car rides (required by California state law)
• A hat and pair of booties
• If you’re using cloth diapers, bring two for going home as well as two diaper pins or Velcro diaper covers (hospitals only use disposable diapers)
• One undershirt
• One receiving blanket
• Outer blanket or sleep sack with legs

Talk to friends and family who have had babies about what they found useful while they were at a birth center for more ideas. And you can always ask your doula or healthcare provider for advice and suggestions.