Preparing For Your Hospital Stay

The typical hospital stay for the majority of women with a complication-free delivery is 2-4 days. Generally, women who experience vaginal deliveries are released sooner than those who experience cesarean sections. To increase your comfort, your partner’s comfort and ensure that you have the necessary items for bringing your baby home, it is important to make preparations for your hospital stay approximately one month before your due date.

The majority of hospitals provide the basic necessities that you and the baby will need during your hospital stay, including feminine pads and newborn diapers. However, most women find that they need additional items that the hospital doesn’t provide. Contact the hospital where you will be delivering and find out what they do provide so that you know exactly what you need to pack. Don’t forget to pack the camera for capturing baby’s first few days! Ask your partner to pack a bag with necessary items to make the stay more comfortable as well. Below you will find a list of common items that most pregnant mothers should pack for their stay at the hospital:

• Clothing to wear home (choose a non-restrictive and comfortable outfit)
• Deodorant
• Nursing pillow (if breastfeeding)
• Nursing bra and nursing pads (if breastfeeding)
• Shampoo/body wash
• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Hair brush and hair ties, if necessary
• Baby’s going home outfit
• Pacifier (if you choose to use one)
• Blanket
• Car seat

If possible, pre-register at the hospital where you will be delivering. Most hospitals recommend, and some require, pre-registering during the second trimester. By pre-registering, the hospital will have the necessary information that it needs for you and your baby. Pre-registering will decrease the amount of time you spend in the admissions area when you are in active labor. If you are pre-registered, you will likely only need to quickly check-in so that the hospital staff is aware that you are present and then proceed to labor and delivery.

It is important to remember to bring any insurance cards or other forms of documentation/identification that is required by the hospital.

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