Hospital bag checklist: What to pack for a Hospital delivery

Here’s what to pack in your hospital bag for a more comfortable labor, delivery, and recovery. We’ve included hospital bag packing tips from moms – and advice on what you shouldn’t bring.

Once you’re 37 weeks pregnant, you could go into labor at any time. “Only 5 percent of babies are actually delivered on their due date,” 

•Toiletries. Pack a toothbrush and toothpaste, lip balm, deodorant, a brush and comb, hair ties, and makeup

•Sanitary pads. The hospital will provide sanitary pads to absorb all the blood after delivery, but if you like using a specific brand, feel free to bring your own.

•A picture ID (driver’s license or other ID) and your insurance card. Check with the hospital or birth center ahead of time regarding any paperwork you should bring.

•Your birth plan, if you have one.

•A cord blood kit. If you’re planning to bank or donate your baby’s cord blood, make sure to read the paperwork ahead of time and pack accordingly.

•Nursing bras. You’ll need easy access to breastfeed your newborn

•Postpartum underwear. Some women love the mesh underwear provided by the hospital, but others don’t.

•Massage lotion or oil. These may come in handy if you think you might enjoy a massage while in labor.

•Nursing pillow. You can always use hospital pillows to get your baby into a good position for breastfeeding, 

•Medications, including vitamins. Any medication or vitamin you bring from home must be approved by the hospital’s pharmacy – and the process can take a long time