The Ultimate Hospital Bag Checklist

You've made the decision to have a baby and now the big day is coming closer and closer. You will need to pack a hospital bag for yourself and your partner. What to pack can be a little overwhelming, but don't worry, we have you covered. Here is a list of what to pack for labor and delivery, what to pack for mom, essential items and documents required at deliver and baby necessities.

What to Pack for Labor and Delivery

If you are like most women, you will be nervous and excited about giving birth. For many people having an epidural during childbirth sounds like heaven! But for others the thought of labor pains is daunting. No matter what type of birth you are hoping for, it is important to be prepared. Here is a list of what to pack in your hospital bag for labor and delivery:

What to Pack for Mom

After the baby is born, mom will need her own items to recover in the hospital. Here is a list of what to pack in your hospital bag for mom:

• Pajamas or a nightgown. If they don't wash out well enough then simply layer something over top that is comfortable but still has sleeves that stay on your arms.
• Comfortable shoes.
• A hat, if desired.
• Toiletries, including a toothbrush and toothpaste, shampoo, soap and a razor.
• A nursing bra and pads.
• Snacks and drinks, especially if you are planning to breastfeed.
• If you are required to stay overnight, a bed sheet and pillow in case the hospital doesn't provide more than 1 set. Amniotic fluids might soak them up so it's better to have an extra set just in case.
• Entertainment, such as a book, a deck of cards or a laptop.

Essential Items and Documents

There are a few essentials that you will want to make sure to bring with you to the hospital, regardless of whether you are having a baby or not. Make sure to pack:

• Your insurance card and a photo ID.
• A copy of your prenatal records.
• Your birth plan, if you have one.
• Your discharge paperwork, including lab work results and the baby's health insurance card. The latter will ensure all billing goes smoothly after birthing day.

• Your Anja's Stem Cell Collection Kit!

What to Pack for Dad

Just like mom, dad will need his own items to recover in the hospital. Here is a list of what to pack in your hospital bag for dad:

• A comfortable shirt and pants.
• Shoes that are easy to slip on and off.
• A towel. These seem silly until someone gives them some thought...they really do help people feel less vulnerable when getting naked right behind a curtain.
• Entertainment, such as a book, a deck of cards or a laptop.
• Some snacks and drinks.
• A camera to capture all the memories!

Our hospital bag is definitely not complete without our Anja's Stem Cell Collection Kit! This kit includes all of the supplies you need to collect the stem cells, as well as a special container to store them in. The nurse will follow the instructions on the kit so you will have nothing to worry about!

What to Pack for the Baby

There are also a few essentials that you will want to pack for your baby, regardless of whether he or she is coming into this world naturally or via c-section.

• One set of blank hospital pajamas for your little one.
• A receiving blanket.
• A going home outfit, including a hat and booties.
• A car seat.
• A pacifier. Some babies like them, some don't.
• A burp cloth. We suggest placing it over their shoulder.
• Extra diapers and wipes.

As you can see, there are a few things that both mom and dad will need when they head to the hospital. You can also refer to the picture on the page that we've created so you can easily fill out the checkboxes :) And no matter what, don't forget your Anja's Stem Cell Collection Kit!