Hospital / Birthing Center Checklist

*  A watch with a second hand. This will help you time your contractions.

*  Hard candies or lollipops. These will help keep your mouth moist.

*  Lip balm. This will keep your lips moist.

*  A small paper bag. This will help if you hyperventilate. You or your coach should let your health care provider know if you hyperventilate during labor.

*  Warm socks

*  Hair tie. This is helpful if you have long hair.

*  Mouthwash. You might need this to freshen your mouth.

*  Hand-held massager and lotions to massage you with

*  Hairbrush. Your coach can soothe you by brushing your hair.

*  Snacks

*  Phone numbers of the people you want called after the baby is born

*  Tape player and tapes or a radio. Music could help you relax during labor.

*  Camera, tape recorder, video camera. These may or may not be allowed. You may or may not want to use them.

*  Nightgown(s). If you plan to nurse, take nightgowns that open in the front.

*  Underpants, nursing bras, and nursing pads

*  Robe or bed jacket

*  Slippers

*  Toothbrush and toothpaste

*  Comb, barrettes, hair bands, and other items you use for your hair

*  Shampoo

*  Soap in a soap dish or plastic bag

*  Skin lotion

*  Deodorant

*  Makeup, perfume, powder

*  Hand held mirror

*  Any other toilet items you use

*  Sanitary napkins

*  Clothes to wear home. Maternity clothes will still fit best.

*  Pen and paper

*  Address book with phone numbers for people you may want to call.

*  Enough money to pay for small hospital services. Examples: TV, newborn pictures, newspapers, and magazines.

*  Snacks like fresh fruit, dried fruit, and whole wheat crackers. You’ll be doubly glad to have snacks around if you are nursing.

*  An outfit of clothes. Example: an undershirt, a one-piece sleeper with legs, and a newborn diaper.

*  Outer wear. Example: a cap, booties, receiving blanket(s), and a warm blanket if the weather is cold.

*  An approved infant car seat. Do you already have one? If not, ask the hospital or birthing center where you can borrow or rent one.