Packing for your stay at Colquitt Regional Medical Center

Packing for the hospital can be a daunting task. It is best to get some things ready before your due date just in case you go into labor a little earlier. This is a guide about things that many new moms have found useful during their labor and deliveries.

• Picture ID
• Health insurance card
• Pre-registration forms from the hospital
• Nursing bra(s)- This supports swollen, tender breasts, and helps keep breast pads in place.
• Sports bra- Many women find these extremely useful for suppressing lactation if you are not planning on breast feeding.
• Breast pads- You will need these whether or not you are breast feeding because they stop leaks by absorbing milk.
• Nursing pillows- These can be used if you are breast feeding or bottle feeding; either way they reduce the strain on your arms, neck, and back when feeding your baby.
• Nightgown and robe- Make sure they open in the front if you are planning on breast feeding.
• Slippers- During early labor it is always recommended to walk around. These will also come in handy as you make trips to the nursery to check on your new baby.
• Socks- Many women complain of their feet being cold during the delivery, so have a couple of pairs in case one pair becomes soiled.
• Going-home outfit- Choose one that fit when you were around 6 months pregnant.
• Toiletries- To be more comfortable, take a toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, chap stick, makeup, hairbrush, shampoo, soap, lotion, hair dryer, etc.
• Sanitary pads- The hospital can provide you with these, but many women feel more comfortable when they bring their favorite brand with them. Remember, you are going to need a pad designed for a heavier flow.
• Hair clip or band if you have long hair- Women with long hair like to have it pulled out of their faces during labor and delivery.
• Pillow from home- This makes you more comfortable; just make sure you have a different colored pillow case on it to distinguish it from hospital pillows.
• Magazines- You will not have a lot of down time, but there could be a few minutes here and there when you could read.
• Mints or breath strips- Many women experience nausea/vomiting during labor and delivery; these will help freshen your mouth or the mouths of your support people.
• Lollipops or other hard candies- These can alleviate dry mouth.
• Glasses and contact case
• Breast feeding book- Take along any reference books that would be helpful.
• Baby book- The nursery often will take your baby book and put your baby’s footprints in it. This will save you a lot of time and trouble.
• Large envelope /file folder- This may be used to store any loose paperwork.

Essentials for Baby

• Infant car seat and infant head support- You will not be allowed to leave the hospital without one; make sure you bring the instructions.
• Going-home outfit
• Hat- Babies lose the vast majority of their body heat through their heads.
• Booties/socks
• Receiving blankets- Newborns love to be swaddled, and these blankets are perfect for swaddling.
• Newborn diapers- If they do not have the umbilical cord area cut out, make sure you fold them down.
• Wipes- Begin with the wipes that are designed for newborns or sensitive skin.
• Mittens - Many newborns will have longer nails, so they can easily scratch their face and other parts of their bodies.

Essentials for Partner

• Change of clothes
• Pajamas
• Toiletries
• Snacks- Labor can be a long process, so you want to be prepared.
• Cooler filled with drinks and sandwiches- This keeps the partner close by and can help avoid multiple trips to the hospital cafeteria.
• Quarters for the vending machine and/or pay phone- Remember not all hospitals allow cell phone use.
• Watch with second hand
• Video/still camera - Make sure you have extra tapes, film, batteries, chargers, etc.
• Address book- This will help you contact friends and family about your new arrival.
• Massage oils- Many labor classes discuss the use of massage oils during class because they can help alleviate back labor.
• iPod/CD player- Soothing music may help you and your partner relax both during and after labor.