Alameda Bodywork Doula 1

Things I bring to the birth

A rolling suitcase filled with

  • Hot packs and cold packs
  • Aromatherapies
  • Massage oils/lotions
  • Ipod and speakers loaded with a variety of music
  • Focal points
  • Handheld fan
  • Many other little tricks and goodies

Things you should bring to the hospital

I recommend that you pack two separate bags for your trip to the hospital: one bag for labor and one for after the baby is born.

Fotolia 86099297 XSWhen packing the labor bag consider two things: Labor rooms can be really small and space is limited. We will most likely be traveling to the hospital in the middle of the night and the laboring mother will be having regular contractions. The less you have to carry up the better.

Pack one bag of things you will need during the labor and another bag to leave in the car with all of the things you will need after the baby is born – this is usually the bigger bag.

Labor bag

  • Shower shoes or flip-flops
  • Swim suit for partner/spouse
  • Shower accessories (toothpaste, brush, chapstick, etc.)
  • 2 pillows in brightly colored pillow cases
  • Cooler with food – frozen entrees, bagels, muffins, popsicles, applesauce, fig newtons, hard boiled eggs, coconut water.
  • Camera
  • Chargers and power strip

Postpartum bag

  • Nursing gowns
  • Nursing bras
  • Breastfeeding book
  • Breastfeeding pillow
  • Nipple shield
  • Clothes for the baby to wear home.
  • Any other items you feel appropriate for your hospital stay