What to Include in Your Birth Bag
If your due date is approaching, it’s about time you start preparing your birth bag. Ideally, you should have your birth bag ready as you cross the 37-week mark since you never know when your baby decides it’s time to make an appearance! Here are some things you can include in your birth bag:
Comfortable Clothes
A change of clothes is super important postpartum, but be super mindful of what you’re choosing! Avoid clothes that are restrictive or difficult to wear such as tight pants or restrictive dresses.
Opt for loose-fitting, easy-to-wear clothes made of breathable materials like cotton so you stay nice and comfortable postpartum.
We recommend bringing a cardigan or sweater with you in case you get cold at any point in time.
Make sure to include an extra pair of underwear, sanitary pads, bras, and nursing pads.
Also make sure to pack some socks and comfortable, non-slippery shoes to wear home.
Phone Charger/Power Bank
Keep an extra charger on you at all times so you don’t have to worry about your battery draining and have your phone on you at all times.
We all use our phones all the time – and it has a part to play in your labor as well. First, you’ll need it to get in contact and stay in contact with your midwife while you are in early labor and traveling to the birth center. Then, you may want it to play your special music while you’re in labor or postpartum. Or maybe your support person will need it to take photos of special moments. Keep it charged!
Snacks and Drinks
Staying hydrated and nourished during the postpartum period is super important to keep yourself refreshed and energized.
Let’s be honest, the food you can find on short notice might not be what you’re craving, so it’s always good to have a supply of your favorite snacks and food that you really enjoy on hand.
Remember to carry easy-to-eat snacks like pudding cups, pretzels, cookies, flavored yogurt and maybe some sandwiches so you don’t have to worry about cutlery, plates, etc.
Toiletries and Skincare
While your birth center and the hospital might provide you with some basic toiletries, it’s always good to have your kit of products that you know work for you.
Some basic things to pack are a toothbrush, toothpaste, hairbrush, face cleanser, and moisturizer! You should also pack hair ties, face wipes, and gentle hygiene wipes to use immediately after your delivery when you can’t shower.
If you wear contacts or glasses, make sure to pack the case and cleaning solution/lens solution.
A lotion might come in handy since, like most of your body, your skin is also undergoing a lot of stress. So moisturizing it and keeping it healthy can be really soothing!
Personal Hygiene Products
Depending on your personal preference, you will need adult diapers or pads for postpartum vaginal discharge and bleeding.
Your chosen birthplace might provide you with these but it’s better to carry a product that you’re familiar with and one that you know works better for you.
That being said, this is a generic list. It’s always good to brainstorm ahead of time and ensure you’re covering all bases when organizing your birth bag.
