When Should You Pack Your Hospital Bag? You should have your hospital bag ready to go between weeks 32 and 35 of your pregnancy, in case your baby comes a bit earlier than expected. A good time to start the packing process is around the 28 week mark, or at the start of your 3rd trimester.
Get a few things ready at least 3 weeks before your due date. For yourself, you'll probably want to pack: your birth plan and hospital notes. something loose and comfortable to wear during labour that does not restrict you from moving around or make you too hot.
Not only should you pack a hospital bag for you when you're pregnant, but you should pack a hospital bag for your baby! ... Because yes, I highly recommend having two separate bags. You will want to be able to find everything easily while you are at the hospital, so it just makes a lot of sense to pack things separately.
Aim for one outfit in newborn size and one 0-3 months. Don't forget hats and/or socks, if weather appropriate. Your pediatrician's contact information. The doctors and nurses will ask you for this information several times, so it's good to have it handy.
If you're uncomfortable going nude, a labor and delivery gown could be the perfect choice for you. If you just want to be comfortable, go with an old t-shirt. Women who want to labor in the tub or shower (or who may have in-laws in the delivery room) can opt for a bikini to wear in labor.
Seven Bodysuits or Rompers
With seven, if you wash a couple of loads a week, you'll always have clean ones on hand. Tip: Add a kimono-style bodysuit (sometimes also called a side-snap bodysuit) or two for baby to wear until their umbilical cord falls off, usually around one to two weeks after they're born.
Things Not to Pack in Your Hospital Bag
What to pack in a hospital bag: For your baby
If you won't be taking a dip and don't plan on moving around much during labor, you might choose to simply wear a nursing bra. You can use a thin sheet or blanket for modesty and comfort.
A pacifier.
Maternity wards are pro-breastfeeding and we aren't allowed to dispense pacifiers, as they're associated with nipple confusion. So if you want one, you'll have to bring your own.
We've outlined 10 ways to help make you (or another new mom in your life) feel like yourself again.
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