A well-prepared hospital bag is an excellent way of ensuring peace of mind and making your delivery a positive experience. After all, you never know exactly when baby will decide to show up! Here's a little checklist of things to keep in mind for the hospital or birthing centre.
For a worry-free delivery, foresight is key!
Besides your maternity bag, don't forget to bring the essentials for your unborn baby and the person accompanying you. It's also a good idea to draw up an action plan to ensure that day-to-day activities are properly managed in your absence, especially if loved ones, such as other children or pets, need to stay at home while you give birth.
When should you pack your maternity bag?
It's a good idea to start packing your hospital bag as early as the beginning of the eighth month of pregnancy, as the baby may arrive a few weeks before the due date.
What to pack in your maternity bag: A checklist of essentials for the mother
Soft, warm fabrics, a comfy pillow, your favourite blanket... remember to pack everything you need to wrap yourself in warmth and comfort, both during and after the intense exertion. And don't forget to bring some lighter clothes, as you could get very hot!
Here's a list of items to add to your maternity bag.
- A nightgown or short-sleeved T-shirt that you don't mind staining during labour;
- A robe;
- Socks (light and warm);
- A pair of slippers;
- Pyjamas;
- Comfortable, appropriate underwear;
- Maximum-absorption sanitary pads;
- Loose-fitting clothes for a few days (it may take a few days for your tummy to return to normal);
- A pair of comfortable sandals;
- Beauty and body care products (facial cleanser, moisturizer, antiperspirant, lip balm, toothbrush, toothpaste, dental floss, etc.);
- Contact lenses (if you wear them);
- Eyeglass cleaner and case (if you wear glasses);
- Hair care products, such as shampoo, brush or comb;
- Massage oil;
- A book and other entertainment;
- Water bottle/canteen;
- Your medication (if any);
- Your hospital card;
- Your vaccination record.
You should also include several of these items for the person accompanying you.
And don't forget what you need to breastfeed!
Planning to breastfeed? Don't forget to add these items:
- A nursing pillow;
- A nursing bra;
- Absorbent pads;
- An anti-chafing product (ask your pharmacist for advice).
How should I dress to give birth?
Loose-fitting, comfortable clothes such as loose-fitting T-shirts, nightgowns or bathrobes that are easy to put on and take off are essential. Whenever possible, choose soft, stretchy materials such as cotton, as they don't irritate the skin and allow freedom of movement.
Plan several layers of clothing that you can add or remove depending on the temperature in the delivery room.
Essentials for dad/the person accompanying you
Your life partner or the person who will accompany you during childbirth will obviously play a very important role. So it's important to ensure the best conditions for their well-being and comfort, to help them conserve their energy and take good care of you. This person may also want to have the necessary equipment to immortalize these unforgettable moments!
So consider adding these items to your list of essentials:
- A change of clothes;
- Comfortable shoes and slippers;
- A pillow and blankets;
- A travel pillow (like those used on planes);
- A camera or video recorder;
- A selection of entertainment options (tablet, magazines, sudoku, music player, etc.);
- Headphones;
- A charger;
- Ear plugs;
- Healthy, non-perishable snacks;
- Water bottle/canteen;
- Change for vending machines, parking, etc.
And the essentials for the baby about to be born
In addition to all your love and tenderness, your baby will need a multitude of essentials to ensure their emotional and physical well-being. Good preparation will ensure they have the best!
Here are a few baby items to add to your maternity bag:
- Newborn and 0-3 month pyjamas (you never know exactly what size your child will be!);
- Newborn-size diapers;
- Cleansing wipes;
- Baby washcloths;
- Weather-appropriate clothing for the trip home;
- Mittens to prevent scratches;
- Blankets and a bonnet to swaddle them and cover their head and ears (some blankets are lighter, others warmer);
- A pacifier (if desired);
- An infant car seat cover (if you give birth in winter).
An infant car seat is another essential item for transporting your newborn from the delivery room to home. This car seat should be used until your baby weighs at least 22 pounds (10 kilos). So don't forget to bring it along so you can put your newborn baby in it when the time comes.
Your birth plan is important!
Draw up a birth plan with your life partner/caregiver and the healthcare professional who has been following you throughout your pregnancy, and bring it with you before the birth. This birth plan should clearly and briefly describe your ideal birth, as well as what you want and will accept if things don't go according to plan.
No matter which model you choose, remember that such a plan is always beneficial! Remember to attach it to your health insurance card and hospital card, if applicable.
For more advice and information on caring for expectant mothers and their babies, talk to your pharmacist!
