How to Plan a Pregnancy Labor Bag

By Julia Wooldridge

To ensure that you have everything you need during your labor and delivery pack a labor bag in the final month of your pregnancy and have it ready to go at a moments notice. Pack these essential items in your labor bag.

Step 1
Include these Mom essentials:
~A toiletry bag ~ include lip balm, hair bands, soap and shampoo, deodorant, a toothbrush and toothpaste.
~Nursing breast pads ~ the washable kind are the best but disposable ones may be easier whilst at the hospital.
~Glasses/contact lenses, case and solution
~Clothing for yourself ~ include a couple of nightgowns and a light robe and comfortable, loose casual clothes to come home in. If you are breastfeeding you should pack nursing nightgowns and a couple of nursing tops and two nursing bras.
~Pads
~Wash cloth.

Step 2
Don’t forget to add these delivery/post delivery items:
~Birth Plan
~Camera/video camera/chargers
~Cell phone loaded with phone numbers of close family and friends and your breastfeeding support person (contact the La Leche League or your lactation consultant).
~Insurance/medical information
~Sibling gift
~Baby care/breastfeeding book
~Baby book or journal
~Focal point, if you have one.

Step 3
Include food for light snacks during labor (check your hospital's policy regarding this) or after the baby is born:
~Lights snacks ~ such as energy bars, fruit and mints.
~Energy drinks or bottled water

Step 4
Pack baby supplies for coming home:
~Going home outfit ~ depending on weather; onesie, socks, hat, one piece outfit and blanket. Keep the clothing simple but bring double supplies in case of messes!
~Diapers
~Wipes
~Car seat ~ don’t forget to bring the instructions!

Step 5
Dad or your birth partner may want to add a few of their own supplies or even bring a small bag of their own:
~Change of clothes
~Snacks ~ they may not be able to leave the labor room for many hours.
~Bottled water
~Book or magazine
~Toiletries
~Money ~ loose change for phones, vending machines or the hospital cafeteria.