Must Haves: In your birthing/hospital bag

Regardless of whether you are planning a birth at the hospital or birthing center, there are some essentials everyone needs to have prepared:

• A long phone charging cable - purchase the longest one you can find, at least 10 feet at the minimum

  • Reason: Your power outlet might be far from your bed or wherever you plan to labour. Plus, if hooked up to IVs or if you receive pain management medication, your movements might be restricted

• A large water tumbler

• Your own pillows as hospital pillows can be very thin and uncomfortable

• Snacks

  • Reason: Labouring people are typically not permitted to eat once admitted due to the possibility of aspiration should an emergency C-Section be required. That said, fluids are fine so bring things like bone broth, juice, fruit pouches. Once you’ve had your baby and are given the green light to eat solids, most hospitals will allow the birthing parent to order food while the other parent can DoorDash or go to the cafeteria. However, it might be the middle of the night and having to wait for food when ravenous is no fun for anyone; having snacks that you like on hand is always a wise idea.

• Comfortable clothing for postpartum

  • Reason: Hospital gowns can be a little uncomfortable for some folks. Having clothes that make you at ease and that wash easily for Day 2 onward of your hospital stay is sometimes helpful. Bring loose clothing and shirts that have buttons on the front. You can also buy labour/maternity style gowns on Amazon that come with all the snaps you will need for skin-to-skin, nursing, etc.