What to carry in my maternity hospital bag

It is always recommended to be ready for welcoming the little one after 30 weeks of pregnancy. It is best to be prepared for the most precious and emotional moment to bring a new life to this beautiful world. The little star in the mommy's womb might want to surprise by their arrival anytime.

From my personal experience these are the list of items that will be essential during hospital stay.

For the new mommy:

·         Your identity proofs- Be it Aadhar card/pan card/driving license. And if you are working and you/your spouse company provides medical insurance, then all those related documents.

·         Your earlier/ current pregnancy medical records, also if you have any other medical ailments, it is better you carry those as well, so the doctor shall know the actual case.

·         Night gowns:  Have 1 exclusive for the labor, since it shall be for sure be dirty during labor. Pack at least 3/4 comfortable night gowns. I preferred feeding nighties, they were useful post delivery as well. Comfortable inners are a must.

·         Socks/ scarf/ sweater- since the body shall be weak post delivery, it is natural to catch cold/infections easily, so having a warm clothing is recommended.

·         Stole/Dupatta : For feeding, during visitors and you might be uncomfortable feeding in front of them.

·         Hand wash/ Sanitizes for visitors- This is very essential, do not allow any visitor to lift the baby unless they wash their hands clean. Else Sanitizes will also do. Ensure they are clean before picking the child.

·         Daily essential toiletries - Toothbrush, toothpaste, mouthwash, face and body wash, soap, lotion, moisturizer, lip balm and other personal stuff.

·         Outfit for going- home- Most of them forget this, it is recommended that you carry a simple outfit so that you don't have to tie anything at the waist, in case of a C-Sec.

·         Mobile chargers

·         Head phones /Books- If you are a music lover and would want to hear some nice music, this is essential. If you are a book worm, then this also might be useful before your labor, waiting for the little one.

·         Snacks- Labor can be sometimes longer than expected, so having some healthy snacks handy is recommended.

·         Menstrual Pads: Post delivery, based on the bleeding, these shall be must.

·         Bathroom slippers

For the little one:

•          Comfortable soft clothes: A set of outfits nearly some 5/6 pairs, provided the previous day clothes go for wash next day. Else have nearly 12 pairs of clothes. Cotton Jhablas are best suited and langots till the initial poop is stabilized for the baby. Rompers, body suits can be handy.
•          Socks/Mittens/ baby blanket:  Few babies have long nails during birth, and we don't want them to hurt themselves. Also mittens help them to stay warm.
•         Caps: For the babies woolen or some soft material cloth caps shall be helpful.
•         Two soft cotton sheets for your baby's bed.
•          Changing mat for changing the diaper and hand towels to clean spit ups while feeding
•          New born diapers and wet wipes
•          Baby Toiletries that include baby soap, shampoo, massage oil,Soft towel

For the Birth Partner:

•         Medical insurance papers

•         Comfortable clothes and toiletries

•         Some handy cash/ ATM cards

•         Mobile phone/ chargers

•         Some refreshing snacks

Don't forget to carry the ever lasting beautiful smile on your face always. Welcome the precious little in your arms with a smile.