Giving Birth at Our Hospital -- What to Bring

Pack all these items in a separate bag for easy access. Print out this list and hang it up so you won't forget anything!

• A copy of your birth plan
• Extra pillows
• "Birthing ball" and Pump
• Focal/Concentration point
• Music (and something to play it on)
• Lightweight bathrobe (or wear an extra hospital gown backwards)
• Short gown or nightshirt (if you wish to wear your own in labor – hospital gowns are provided)
• Socks (for cold feet)
• Slippers
• Beach shoes for the shower
• Hairbrush and hairclips (to keep hair out of your face)
• Lip balm (for dry lips)
• Toothbrush/mouthwash
• Eyeglasses (if you wear contacts, pack a case and solution in case you need to take them out)
• Lotion or powder (for massage)
• Two tennis balls tied into a sock (passive back counterpressure)
• Washcloth (a nice, thick one – hospital cloths are rather thin)
• Lollipops (clear fluids – tea, broth, juice jello – are available at your doctor's order)
• Hand or battery operated fan (a shower/washcloth can cool you too)
• Time passers (playing cards, magazines)
• Snacks for your labor support partner
• Camera, film, batteries
• Phone numbers (there is a telephone in the birthing room – cellular telephones are not permitted)