Must Haves for Labor & Delivery

The number ONE recommendation was someone and something to help you stay calm.  If you find that the baby’s father is not the one that can do that for you – find someone who can.  Your mother, sister, best friend – whoever you are most comfortable with.  Some women hire a Doula to stay with them and work as their advocate during labor & delivery.

 Next on the list is a camera or video camera – or both!

 Pictures of family or calming places, a favorite CD, some hard candy and ice chips (since most hospitals do not allow mothers to eat during labor).  Also a deck of cards and some games or magazines to pass the time while you’re in early labor, or after an epidural when the pain isn’t so bad.

 Hairbrush, hair dryer, shampoo from home, hair scrunchie, toothbrush & toothpaste, makeup, towels from home, deodorant and lotion are all among the personal items experienced moms recommend.

 While some women prefer to use the gowns the hospital provides so they don’t get their own messy, others want the comfort of home in their own.  Also slippers, extra socks and a robe, and a change of clothes for Dad too.  Of course, something for baby to come home in – and yourself as well.

 Don’t forget your phone list of who to call when baby arrives, as well as a phone card if your hospital has limits on calls.  Some change for vending machines can come in handy, as well as a notebook, diary, or baby book to write things down so you don’t forget (including the birth story.)

What do you consider a "Must Have" for Labor & Delivery?  Submit your ideas and reasoning and you could see it listed here.

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