Preparing for your big day
Make sure you’re prepared when the time comes to deliver your baby. Before you give birth, know:
Who to call & where to go
You should call your doctor if you believe you're in labor. Speak to him or her before your due date for information on where to go and park when you arrive at your birthing center for delivery.
Call 911 if you think you're experiencing an emergency situation. An ambulance will take you to the nearest hospital.
What to bring with you
When you arrive at your birthing center, you'll need only a small bag containing a few items for labor and delivery. Leave all other luggage in your car. Those items can be retrieved after your baby is born.
Packing checklist
- Contact lens case and solution, eyeglasses
- Baby book for footprints, if desired
- Socks
- Hairbrush, hair clips or hair ties
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Your choice of music to labor with
- Birth ball (may be supplied by hospital) and/or other labor aids
- Lip moisturizer
- Unscented lotion or oil for massages
- Slippers or comfortable shoes
- Camera
- Cell phone and charger
- Phone list
- Laptop with charger, if desired
- Pillows, if you prefer your own (please do not use white pillowcases so your pillows won’t be mistaken as hospital property)
- Comfortable clothes
- Low-odor snacks and drinks
- Sweatshirt, in case you want the labor room cool
- Sleepwear, including a robe (you may prefer to wear a hospital gown during your stay)
- Shoes or slippers to wear around the hospital
- Nursing bra
- Personal toiletries (sanitary pads, white mesh panties and nursing pads will be provided)
- Comfortable outfit for the trip home
- Pajamas or loose-fitting clothes for sleeping
- Shoes or slippers to wear around the hospital
- Personal toiletries
- Clothes for the stay
- Infant car seat (schedule a free car seat check)
- One or two laundered outfits and appropriate outerwear for the trip home
- If Bella Baby Photography is available, you might consider a special outfit for newborn pictures (purchase is optional)
- Diapers, clothing and wearable blankets will be provided after birth (do not take any hospital-issued clothes and blankets home)
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