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Packing Checklist for Postpartum
by Lisa Rodriguez, R.N. and Marjorie Greenfield, M.D.
reviewed by Laura Jana, M.D., F.A.A.P.
With all thoughts focused squarely on labor and delivery, many mothers-to-be forget about what they'll need after the baby is born. In addition to the bag you pack for labor and delivery, consider gathering together a separate group of items you'll want to have with you afterward. A printable list of useful suggestions follows:- Sleepwear. Nightgowns are convenient and comfortable to wear. You might want to wear a hospital gown the first 24 hours, however, because you may be bleeding significantly and won't want to risk staining your own clothes.
- Socks. A few pairs of socks can really make a difference, since few labor and delivery rooms are carpeted. Chances are you'll prefer your own to the pairs your hospital supplies.
- Maternity or large-sized underwear. The underwear you wore while pregnant should serve you well. While your waist size will decrease dramatically after birth, don't expect to fit back into your pre-pregnancy underwear just yet.
- Bras. Two or three comfortable nursing bras, or soft, exercise-type bras if you plan to bottle-feed your baby.
- Toiletries, including shampoo, soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, lotion, deodorant, hairbrush, and make-up.
- Extra-absorbent sanitary pads. Many hospitals provide only the kind that require a belt, so bring ones that you'll find more comfortable.
- Glasses. Even if you normally wear contacts, you may have your hands full and not want to deal with the hassle of caring for them.
- Long-distance calling card. Making long-distance calls from the hospital rarely costs less than making them from a hotel (and might cost more). In the excitement to share your good news, you may not care, but you might feel differently when the hospital bill arrives. A little advance planning can save you a bundle.
- Book or magazine.
- Comfortable clothes. Bring loose-fitting clothes to wear home. Some women are more comfortable wearing everyday clothes than sleepwear during the hospital stay as well.
- Baby clothes. Consider packing an outfit that covers your infant's feet. At least bring socks; a newborn's hands and feet tend to get cold regardless of the temperature. And don't forget a baby hat.
- Baby blanket, to wrap your baby in for the trip home.
- Diapers. Although the hospital nursery will undoubtedly supply them during your stay, it doesn't hurt to bring a few extras with you.
- Car seat. Whatever you do, don't forget this one! Hospitals these days won't let a baby leave without one.
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Created March 07, 2001
Reviewed March 10, 2001
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