If the woman is pregnant and is expecting labor sooner or later, then it becomes important on her part to be well prepared in advance. The last few pregnancy weeks are indeed a crucial one and with the due date approaching; a bag is to be prepared that can be taken along to the hospital.
It is not the right time trying to remember and pickup those things for taking it to the hospital. Rather, the bag should be filled up at least a month before the due date and kept ready besides, so that it can be taken immediately or to have someone pick it up and deliver it at the hospital after admission for labor.
Get to know the Best Hospital Bag Checklist
All relevant documents are to be brought along. Also would be necessary the health insurance card, photo ID and other information which may be required by the hospital. The birth plan can also be brought along. The other essential items required are the bathrobe, nightgowns, socks and slippers with nonslip bottom. Nightgown is not to be constricting, but loose for the pregnant mother to breathe in easily and be comfortable. Long sleeves are favored since they can take lots of blood pressure. They can also be thrown away if they get messed up.
Comfortable clothes with flat shoes are to be packed. Constricting and tight clothes are to be avoided. It also will be useful to bring large clothes to fit in perfectly the post delivery body shape. Bras are to be packed to help support the breast as milk comes in, including nursing pads. Regular cotton undies or maternity underpants can be used.
Toiletries like toothpaste, toothbrush, deodorant, lip balm, comb and brush are important. So are sanitary napkins. If contact lenses are worn, then eyeglasses and contact lens supplies are to be carried. A clean towel should be taken. Some money will prove to be handy at the hospital. A headband or scrunchy can help to hold the hair back. Some snacks will be useful. Extra memory card and batteries will be necessary for the camera along with the phone charger. Phone numbers of important people and close relatives are to be jotted down in a diary and kept besides and added to the phone. Some hospitals might allow using of mobile phones. IPod or MP3 music can help to listen soothing music. Apart from the 10 Essential Items for Your Hospital Bag, it will be useful to do some research to ensure that nothing is missed out.
What is required for the baby?
An outfit will be necessary for the baby to be brought home. Baby socks and booties will be necessary. Baby outer wear or warm blanket is essential during cold weather. A receiving blanket is an absolute must. Another essential item that cannot be neglected is a rear facing baby car seat that needs to be properly installed.
One should not overpack, but take those items that can prove to be more than handy and useful during labor.