Birth Checklist

As you anxiously await for delivery day, make sure you have everything you need for that trip to the hospital (or for your home birth). Instead of packing, repacking and double checking yet again, use this handy list to make sure you have everything you need with you.

For Labour

• Any necessary insurance documents and prenatal reports
• Hair clips and ties
• Favourite pillow from home
• Massage oil (so your partner can rub those sore spots during labor)
• Relaxing music or favourite CDs
• An ice pack or heating pad (for back pain)
• Bathrobe
• Slippers or warm socks
• Snacks and fruit juice or sports drink (for effective thirst quenching during those labor stages)
• Candles or special lighting (if you’re having a home birth)
• Toiletries and pajamas if you are expecting an overnight stay away from home

After Delivery

• Front-opening gown or pajama top for breastfeeding
• Nursing bras and pads
• Books, magazines and writing material (good time to get started on those birth announcements – if you have the time and energy!)
• Snacks
• Several pairs of underwear
• Clothes to leave the hospital in (you’ll want something loose and comfortable since you won’t have your pre-pregnancy figure back just yet)

For the Labor Partner

• Camera or video recorder
• Calling card and phone numbers of friends and family (you may not be able to use your mobile in the hospital or birthing centre)
• Books, magazines, and other items to keep you occupied while you wait
• Watch with a second hand or a stop watch
• Snacks

For Baby’s Trip Home

• Properly installed car seat (make life easier by doing this even before your due date)
• Diapers
• Undershirt
• Outfit or sleeper for that first car ride home
• Booties for those tiny feet and a cap to keep that little head warm
• A receiving blanket along with a second blanket for outdoors