Topic:
Third Trimester
Essentials
- ID, insurance cards
- Phone and charger
- Flip flops for the shower
- Clothes for your support person – pack a few changes of clothes, as labor is unpredictable and can be long.
- Clothes for you to wear home – maternity clothes will still fit after birth! Choose loose and comfortable clothing.
- Clothes for the baby to wear home – one outfit is enough. Most babies are just swaddled in their hospital blanket until they go home.
- Car seat
Nice to Have
The hospital can provide you with these basics, but you may prefer your familiar favorites
- Bathrobe, loose pajamas, slippers, socks – for an upgrade from a hospital gown.
- Underwear – many swear by the ‘hospital panties’ – stretchy underwear you can throw out when dirty – but you may prefer your own.
- Nursing or pumping bra
- Toiletries – toothbrush, toothpaste, hairbrushes or combs, clips, elastics, shampoo, contact lens solution, deodorant, etc.
- Pillow – if you have a favorite bed pillow.
- Snacks – during active labor we recommend sticking to clear liquids only, which the hospital will provide. Snacks may be useful for your support person, or for after birth.
- Baby wipes – many prefer their own brand over the hospital brand.
Extra Credit
Not necessary, but you can consider including these
- Breast-feeding pillow
- Ear plugs and/or eye mask
- Camera
- Entertainment – book, magazine, or electronic device. Most people find there isn’t time in labor or after birth to be bored, but these may be useful if an induction of labor is planned.
Skip Packing
The hospital will provide you with these during your stay, if needed
- Receiving blankets
- Breast pump
- Formula for those who choose not to breastfeed
- Diapers
- Maxi pads