Things to Prepare for Delivery

We all want to be totally ready for the big day that our little ones come into the world. But sometimes, preparing things to bring for your delivery can be quite confusing. Questions like, "Should I bring this?" or "Am I bringing enough?" frequently arise, and more often than not, you'll find that you've packed a bag good for a one-month vacation.

Things for Delivery

Well, it's definitely better to be over-prepared than under-, and it's certainly no good (not to mention impractical) being under-prepared especially if you live far away from the hospital. But just to help you out a little, here's my list for the things I (had my husband) prepare(d) for our big day!

Things for Baby

• Clothes
• Kimono-style outfits: very easy to put on and get off. Onesies are also good.
• Bonnets, mittens, socks: anything else you can cover the baby in - they get cold really easily
• Receiving blankets: I chose the ones with hoods. Babies lose heat very easily through their (very large) heads.
• Going-home outfit: dress your baby in a cute little outfit for the world to see!
• Newborn diapers: newborn babies use at least 6 diapers a day - so prepare A LOT!
• Toiletries: baby soap, baby shampoo
• Feeding bottle (just in case)

Things for Mommy

• Clothes
• Dusters or any other clothing that opens up in the front easily (if you're planning on breastfeeding your baby) - can be zippered up or buttoned up.
• Nursing bras: mine were the ones that had the clasps that, when undone, let the front cover down easily (but take note, these aren't as easy to put back on as they look =O)
• Panties: bring a lot of these in case blood leaks out (yes, you're still going to bleed even after delivery)
• Going-home outfit: anything you choose, but don't pack your pre-pregnancy clothes just yet - you'll still look about 5 months pregnant for quite a while (or at least I did.. LOL)
• Toiletries: soap, shampoo, conditioner, deodorant, toothbrush, toothpaste - anything that you usually use
• Bath towel
• Adult diapers or maternity/overnight pads - the pads are way more comfortable to use (and obviously less bulky), but during the first night, I was advised to use an adult diaper because of the expected amount of bleeding
• Breast pads, nipple cream: I packed these in, but didn't use them - my milk didn't come in until a couple of days after we came home!
• Prenatal medications and vitamins: your doctor will still prescribe some of these postpartum
• Latest ultrasound: my doctor reminded me to bring this record when I come to the hospital for delivery. Not really sure what for, maybe to verify the baby's position and placental condition - but that's just my guess.

Miscellaneous Stuff

• Alcohol and cotton balls/swabs: there have been debates over using alcohol versus just leaving the cord alone to dry, but our pediatrician recommended using alcohol. The decision whether to use alcohol or not is totally up to you, the parents!
• Money, ATM cards: for hospital bills and extra stuff you might need. And you'll be VERY hungry after delivery, trust me. Don't be shy to demand whatever food you desire from your spouse - you did all the pushing, after all. LOL =D
• Daddy's clothes and toiletries: in case he can't get home for a quick shower, at least he'll still look presentable to your visitors!
• Make-up: Never mind that you still look pregnant, at least you look gorgeous! =D
• Cameras, cellphones, laptops, and their chargers: for documentation purposes, of course!