What to Bring to the Hospital for Delivery

To be super prepared for your trip to the hospital to deliver your little bundle(s) of joy, 'they'  suggest to pack 3/4 bags.

For the hospital:

1. For Mom
Pre Delivery
- Health care card and insurance forms
- ear plugs
- soothing music
- distractions to pass time - movies, magazines, pen and paper
- robe, housecoat and/or sweater
- socks 2- 3 pairs
- slippers
- toiletries and personal items; lip balm, lotion, brush, tooth brush, deodorant, contact solution, shampoo conditioner (travel size is best), hair tie
- sugar-free candies to keep mouth moist during labour (sugar candies will make you thirsty)

Optional:
- extra pillow
- bath towel + hair dryer
- swim suit (for the shower, if you like)
- mini fan

This bag can then go back in the car after birth and bring in the following items:

2. Post Delivery
- nursing bra (Bravado brand is great but pricey, Thyme sells more affordable ones)
- breast pads
- breast pump (if you want them to show you how to use it)
- button up comfy pj's (as it is cold at night and you have to take your gown off to nurse), night gown that can be ruined
- maternity/full bum under wear (6 pairs-pads don't work well in thong)
- heavy flow maxi pads (over night with wings - you will need to wear for a few weeks after vaginal delivery)
- a comfortable (and cute) outfit (for pictures when leaving)

3. For baby
- pacifiers/soothers
- swaddle/receiving blankets (hospital has some but nice to have your own good quality ones)
- undershirts (3)
- a couple newborn size sleepers  (zipper instead of snaps, with feet if possible)
- newborn size socks
- hats
- scratch mittens
- 5-10 newborn/infant diapers (Pampers Swaddlers are great) and wipes    
- a warm blanket
- seasonally appropriate out door gear
- plastic bag for laundry


4. For Dad
- energy drinks, popcicles and food (for mom and him as he maybe getting a work out supporting mom through labour)
- a change of clothes and hygiene products
- a swim suit (if he decides to join Mom in the shower/tub)
- labour tools to help mom (massage tools, oils, tennis balls, hot/cold compress, etc)
-list of comfort techniques for mom (here through maternity book)
- ear plugs
- change for vending machines
- cell phone and charger
- camera w extra batteries, memory card
- music
- movies/I pad
- gum

Make sure car seat(s) are in the car and you know how to properly secure baby in it (the hospital won't let you leave without checking)