The excitement of preparing for a new baby typically is centered on what you need in your nursery, but you need to prepare for your stay at the hospital as well. As the months get colder, you may also want to keep in mind some additional items.
Myra McElheney, RN, OB Prenatal Educator, reached out to some of the moms that have delivered babies at the Family Birth Place at St. Elizabeth Edgewood to see what they felt were hospital bag must-haves in the winter months. Here is the list they created for mom, dad and baby to be prepared for birth and your stay at the hospital.
What to Bring for Mom
Toiletries – soap or facial cleanser, shampoo/conditioner, toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, deodorant, makeup, brush.
An outfit to wear home.
Nursing bra.
Magazines or a book.
Music.
Camera and/or phone.
Chargers for electronics.
Lip balm.
Hand and body lotion.
Slippers or socks with a non-slip sole for walking around.
Comfortable lounging clothes for after the baby is born.
Ponytail holder or headband.
Zip up hoodie or cardigan that you can easily put on if you get cold.
What to Bring for Dad
Toiletries.
Snacks and drinks, you don’t want to pass out during delivery.
Zip up hoodie or cardigan that you can quickly put on if you get cold.
What to Bring for Baby
Two outfits for hospital pictures.
For a Christmas or Hanukkah due date, bring a special outfit for pictures.
Receiving blankets.
Soft cap for warmth.
Car seat with cover (essential in the winter months).
An extra folding bag to hold the gifts and small items from the hospital.
Your hospital bag should be prepared about four weeks before your due date with everything but your toiletries and have it ready to go at a moment’s notice. Myra McElheney, RN, OB Prenatal Educator, said “It is also important to remember you just need the essentials. I can always tell a first baby from a second or third baby based on what is packed in the hospital bag.”
If you think you are expecting and would like to tour the Family Birth Place public tours of the enhanced St. Elizabeth Edgewood Family Birth Place are offered one Sunday each month. To register for a tour, call 859-301-BABY (2229).
To sign up for a childbirth class to help prepare you for your child’s birth, visit call 859-301-BABY (2229).
