What to Pack for Labour

{   }  Birth Preferences

{   }  Pillows-the ones at the hospital are not very supportive

{   }  Snacks.  These could include but are not limited to-cheese, crackers, granola bars, trail mix, protein bars, sandwich, chocolate etc

{   }  A microwaveable heating bag, hot water bottle or heating pad

{   }  iPod or some other music device. Bring ear buds so you can walk the halls and tune out other noises or if you get an epidural you can tune out distractions so you can rest. Many operating rooms have docking stations so you could ask to play your own music, even in the event of a c-section.

{   }  Hard candies. gum, mints etc

{   }  Ultrasound picture to use to focus on during contractions.  You can put it in a cheap dollar store frame so its nicer.

{   }  TENS machine-Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) is the use of electric current produced by a device to stimulate the nerves for therapeutic purposes. In labour it helps to release endorphins that help relieve the discomfort of contractions.

{   }  A battery-operated fan from the dollar store. These come in really handy if you get hot and fanning you with a piece of paper just wont cut it.

{   }  Comfortable shoes-not slippers!  If you are doing a lot of walking or standing you want something comfy AND supportive for your feet

{   }  Hair band, hair tie or both

{   }  Chap stick

{   }  Small bottle of massage oil

{   }  Depends underwear or underwear you won’t mind tossing after the birth

{   }  Camera that is charged or bring extra batteries

{   }  Refillable water bottle.  Not a case of water but something you can refill as you need to.

{   }  Gatorade and/or juice

{   }  Tooth brush and paste and/or mouthwash. Put all toiletries in a small bag that can be transferred easily to your postpartum bag.

{   }  Deodorant

{   }  Chargers for phone and other electronic devices

{   }  Small bottle of olive oil for perineal massage before delivery

{   }  Snacks.  Sandwiches, power bars etc.  Nothing that has a strong smell.  Pack lots of food since you will not be leaving the room.

{   }  Comfortable shoes

{   }  Comfortable clothes

{   }  Gum, mints, mouthwash

{   }  Book

{   }  Deodorant

{   }  Change of clothes in case it is a long birth or mom doesn’t want to go home after the birth

{   }  Car seat properly installed

{   }  2 Hats

{   }  Outfit-for going home

{   }  2 or 3 onsies

{   }  Blanket-for taking baby home

{   }  Diapers-size newborn

{   }  Wipes sensitive

{   }  Olive oil or Vaseline-to put on bum for baby’s first bowel movement(mechenonium)

{   }  1 0r 2 Nursing bras.  Usually 1-2 sizes larger than pre-pregnancy size

{   }  Nursing pillow.  I highly recommend ‘My Breast Friend’

{   }  Breast pads

{   }  Pajamas with opening at the front for easy breastfeeding

{   }  Robe

{   }  Outfit to go home

{   }  Overnight pads-not Always brand

{   }  Flip flops for shower

{   }  Small bottle of shampoo and body wash

{   }  Dark colored towel

{   }  Toiletries bag from labour bag