What should I bring and pack when I get admitted to the hospital in labor?

You may want to pack two separate bags for the hospital: An overnight bag for the items you'll need during labor and a larger bag for everything else that you'll need after delivery.

For mom and dad:

• Cell phone and chargers
• Preload apps you like to pass the time while you are waiting
• Laptop or iPad (in case of long labor and after labor).
• Camera with film or a camcorder (make sure batteries are full). Dr. Amos recommends a good small camera instead of a big SLR
• CD player or iPod with additional external loudspeakers
• Some cash for parking, food, and drinks
• Your insurance card and any hospital paperwork you need.
• Magazines to read
• Glasses, contacts/contact solution
• A favorite pillow or something else that makes you feel better
• A large birthing ball

Body care & food:

• Some water or nourishing drinks
• Healthy snacks
• Hair bands or scrunchies
• Hand and body lotion
• Massage oil
• Lip balm for dry, chapped lips
• Toothbrush, toothpaste and other toiletries
• Your own maxi-pads (hospital pads often don't have adhesive)
• Hairbrush, make-up
• Lollipops or hard candy

Clothing:

• Warm socks
• Nursing bra
• Nightgown (with button front if you are breastfeeding)
• Bathrobe and slippers
• Loose-fitting outfit to wear home

For baby:

• Car seat for baby's ride home (required)
• One undershirt or onesie
• One outfit for in hospital
• One receiving blanket
• One outer blanket, or "snuggle"
• A hat and pair of booties
• If using cloth diapers, bring two diapers and velcro diaper covers
• A going-home outfit
• A pair of socks or booties
• A cap
• Baby nail clippers or emery board