What to Bring to the Hospital
Essentials for Mom and Baby
It’s a good idea to pack two bags — smaller one for Labor and Delivery and a larger one for your extended stay in Mother/Baby. After baby comes, you will pack a diaper bag to be stocked for outings.
Pack your bags before your due date, just in case your baby decides to arrive sooner than you expect.
Your third trimester is a good time to start planning what you will need to bring to the hospital.
You might find it easier to pack two bags. Decide which items you will need for the labor and birth, and put them into one small bag. Bring this bag into the hospital with you. After your baby is born, someone in your family can bring you the suitcase you packed for your hospital stay. Most importantly, be sure you have the car seat installed correctly in the rear seat of the vehicle.
Pack a small bag to bring to the hospital for labor and birth. Suggested items include:
- Smartphone or camera/video camera, with charger and/or extra batteries
- Equipment to play music
- Favorite pillow, with a non-white pillowcase
- Labor support aids; for example, massage lotion and focal point
- Socks and slippers
- Personal hygiene items; for example, a toothbrush, toothpaste, mouthwash, lip balm, brush, hair ties and deodorant
- Reading material, such as a book or magazines
Your partner may want to bring a change of clothes or snacks, in case of a long labor.
Include these important papers in your small bag:
- Packet of prenatal records from your doctor’s office
- Copies of your informed consents
- Current insurance card/contact name and number of provider
- Name of your baby’s pediatrician
- Advance directives
- Phone list
- A picture ID (driver's license or other ID) and your insurance card
After your baby is born, you will be moved to a Mother/Baby room for recovery. For a comfortable stay, pack a suitcase in advance with the following:
- Bathrobe and slippers
- Pajamas or lounge wear
- Nursing bra with pads (if breastfeeding) or a comfortable support bra, such as a sports bra
- Toiletries, toothbrush, toothpaste, makeup, hair care products
- Books and magazines
- Snacks
- Clothing to wear home; plan to wear something that fit you when you were about six months pregnant
Don’t forget, you'll be bringing home an extra family member! Include the following items in your suitcase just for baby:
- Baby mittens, socks or booties
- Special clothing for your baby’s first photograph, if desired
- Something for baby to wear home, and a receiving blanket
Additional Interests
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What do I need to know?
Louisiana law requires you to buckle up your children in proper car seats. Before you deliver, be sure you have the car seat installed correctly in the rear seat.
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Destination Boutiques
Enjoy the convenience of flowers, plush toys, candy, jewelry, books, cards, candles, accessories, baby supplies and women's clothing.
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ABC's of Safe Sleep
Reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and other sleep-related causes of infant death. Babies sleep safest: Alone. On their Back. In their Crib.
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