Pregnancy

What to bring to the hospital

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Don't wait till your first labor pains to get ready to go to the hospital. Pack your bag at least 3 weeks before your due date with these items.

For you

  • Kaiser Permanente ID card
  • toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, lip balm, brush, hair clip or band, lotion, cosmetics)
  • nightgown or robe (if you prefer to wear your own)
  • non-skid slippers
  • hand fan or spray mist bottle
  • underwear (and your favorite brand of sanitary pad if desired)
  • supportive bra or nursing bra (for breastfeeding mothers)
  • comfortable, loose-fitting clothing to wear home
  • relaxing music or audio programs (check out our childbirth podcasts)
  • camera if you want to take pictures or record video
  • cell phone and numbers for friends and relatives you plan to call
  • eyeglasses and contact lens supplies
  • snacks, a change of clothes, and toiletries for your partner
  • leave valuables (jewelry, money) and electrical appliances (curling iron, hair dryer) at home

For baby

  • infant safety seat (required by law to be in the car when you leave the hospital)
  • outfit for going home (undershirt, outer garment, hat depending on the weather)
  • receiving blankets
  • mittens (many babies have long fingernails and can scratch their faces)

References: Copyrighted material of the Permanente Medical Group, Inc.; What to Expect When Having Your Baby with Kaiser Permanente (Kaiser Permanente Hawaii)

Reviewed by: Jeff Convissar, MD, November 2015
Additional Kaiser Permanente reviewers

© 2015 Kaiser Permanente

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