Pregnancy is full of so many fun things – picking out a baby name, selecting furniture and baby gear, and decorating the nursery. But one of the things on your to-do list that might not seem as much fun is packing your hospital bag. This is one of the most important tasks you can do in your third trimester, along with installing your car seat and completing your pre-registration for delivery.
Deciding what to pack in your hospital bag might seem a little overwhelming. What’s needed? What’s provided? What will you wish you had? The good news is we’re here to help. Below we’ve compiled a list of items provided for you and your baby during your hospital stay, as well as other items you might want to consider:
What We Provide at NGMC
- Gown and robe for mother during the hospital stay
- T-shirt, blanket, diapers, and wipes for baby while in hospital
- Formula (if bottle feeding)
- Mesh panties
- Sanitary pads
- Pericare bottle for personal hygiene
- Meals for mother during the hospital stay
What You Should Bring
- License/photo ID
- Current insurance card/Medicaid card
- Infant car seat
- Phone/camera and appropriate charging devices
- Clothes for you and baby to wear home
- Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, hairbrush, shampoo, soap, deodorant, etc.)
- Comfortable robe, nightgown and slippers (if desired)
- Pacifier (optional)
- Additional baby blankets (if desired)
When You Should Pack
By the third trimester, many moms are in the “nesting” stage and ready to check off their remaining to-do items on their checklist. Having your hospital bag ready in advance – as early as 36 weeks – may help you feel more secure and ready for when your baby decides it’s Go Time!
We recommend having your bag packed by 38 weeks just to be sure. And, while you’re doing the hard work here, it’s important not to forget your significant other – they will need clothes and personal items as well!
Keeping your “go bag” close to the door – or even in your car – will help ensure you can grab the bag quickly when needed.
A Few Extra Tips from Our Pro Moms
- Pack non-perishable snacks or cash for vending machines. Trust us!
- Be sure to check visitation guidelines ahead of time and discuss with your significant other who will be allowed in the delivery room, as well as what guests can visit after.
- Don’t forget the charging cords! All of them!
- Register for your delivery ahead of time so you can limit any delays when it’s “go time.” You can do this in your MyChart portal.
- If you don’t have MyChart, sign up prior to your delivery. This will help you keep track of all health-related information during your hospital stay and post-delivery.
If you want to learn more about Labor & Delivery Services at NGMC, you can visit nghs.com/labor-delivery. For any other questions, please call 770-219-1495.