Photo credit: https://www.staceylorrainebirthphotography.com/
Knowing what to pack for your hospital or birthing center delivery can be tricky, especially when you don’t want to forget anything important or unnecessarily overpack. Fortunately, after a delivery with no complications, hospitals will likely discharge a surrogate and the new family in less than 48 hours. However, it’s still helpful to be prepared and make sure you have the important items you need for this special moment.
We want to help make packing a breeze. Here’s a list of helpful suggestions of things to bring along:
- A camera
- Wallet with identification and money (cash for parking)
- Emergency contact list and birth plan
- Phone and charger
- Change of comfortable clothes
- Toiletries such as toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, and facial products
- 2 baby blankets and 2 receiving blankets
- 6 baby footie pajamas (newborn and 0-3 months)
- 15 or so disposable or cloth diapers
- A cozy baby hat
- Soother
- Comfortable shoes or slippers
- No-scratch baby mittens
- Fleece bunting and mittens for colder months
- Time passing activities such as a book, computer, and a deck or cards
- 4 baby bottles: Check out this Mommyhood101 article on the best baby bottles of 2018!
- Diaper cream or moisturizing oil: Especially important during the meconium phase, bum creams keep your babies skin protected. We love Annointment’s Baby Balm.
- Infant car seat: It is important to make sure your car seat is purchased in Canada if you’re planning on using it while driving in Canada. It is also important to make sure it is airline safe if you will be flying with it. Ensure your baby has met the weight and height requirements for your chosen car seat prior to use. Check out this article for more information on purchasing your babies first car seat.
If inducing lactation:
- Nipple cream: We highly recommended Hedgecraft Herbals NipOil Balm and Earth Mama Organic Nipple Butter.
- Nursing pillow
- Nursing pads: An absorbent, yet soft breast pad is desirable. There are disposable or reusable options such as these. For mama’s whom leak plenty, these fillable pads may be an ideal options.
- Any medications or supplements needed
If using donor milk or formula:
- 4 Bottles
- Bottle cleaning supplies
- Pre-pumped breast milk in a cooler or formula of choice (ready-made is preferred)