What to Pack in your Hospital Bag: Your Complete Checklist
Whether you’re a surrogate or going through a traditional pregnancy, after nine months of carrying the baby, your next step is the delivery. This exciting part can be surreal and go by quickly, so it’s important to have all the essentials ready to go. This includes everything that you’ll need during the labor and birth, and for after the baby is born.
It is good to have a bag packed by the time you are approximately 36 weeks pregnant. Hospitals vary in their policies about what you are allowed to bring with you when you have the baby. It is recommended that you pack two bags. One for yourself and another one for the baby.
What Should be Packed for Labor?
Your birth plan and maternity notes
Dressing gown. This will be useful if you end up pacing hospital corridors in early labor. Hospitals can be warm, so pack a lightweight one
Slippers/socks. Believe it or not, your feet can get cold during labor
An old t-shirt and extra underwear
A birth ball. This can help you get into a comfortable position during pregnancy, labor and after the baby is born
Lip balm. Your lips tend to dry out quickly during labor
Snacks and drinks. It’s important to stay hydrated. Sport drinks are good to have during your labor
Hairbands. Make sure you have something to hold your hair back if you have long hair
Pillows. These will make the environment more personal and comfortable
Breast and maternity pads
Toiletries including: a towel, toothbrush, toothpaste, hairbrush, and deodorant
Eye mask/ear plugs or anything that will help you sleep after the birth
A going home outfit. Loose, comfortable clothes for your journey home and time at the hospital will be needed
What to Pack for the Baby
2 or 3 sleepsuits
A baby blanket
Nappies. Your newborn will go through as many as 12 in a day
Socks/booties
An outfit for the way home. Something stretchy, comfy and soft
A cloth. This will come in handy for mopping up any milk that the baby might bring up
Baby car seat. Some hospitals won’t let you leave without one
As the big day approaches, you as a surrogate mother, or as an intended parent will have plenty of questions that will arise. This checklist will help guide you through your delivery and after it. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to call your surrogacy agency or doctor.
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