Packing List

Birth
Written By Margie Wallis

Whether you are planning to birth at home or at a birth center, it’s a good idea to have a small "just in case” bag so you have what you need if you and/or the baby need to go to the hospital. You may not have a lot of time to gather supplies, so having a pre-packed hospital transfer bag is a good idea.

Also, in spite of the best plans, some people have to transfer their care at the end of pregnancy for a hospital birth. If you are planning a hospital birth, you might want to pack all of this. But if it’s a “just in case” bag, you can just pick the things you would want for extra comfort.

Essential Documents:

  • Photo ID (driver’s license or military ID)

  • Insurance card (if applicable)

Comfort Items:

  • Loose, comfortable clothing (hospital gowns are provided, but a personal robe or gown may be preferred)

  • Socks and slippers or flip-flops

  • Hair ties, clips, or a headband

  • Pillow from home (with a non-white pillowcase so it’s not confused with hospital linens)

  • Blanket or labor wrap (if you want extra comfort)

  • Lip balm (hospitals can be dry)

  • Essential oils or a calming scent (optional)

For Labor & Birth:

  • Tens unit (if using one for labor relief)

  • Massage tools (like a tennis ball or handheld massager)

  • Handheld fan or cooling towel

  • Bluetooth speaker or headphones for music/meditation

  • Portable battery pack for phone charging

Postpartum Essentials:

  • Nursing-friendly nightgown or loose shirt

  • Nursing bra or tank

  • Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, face wash, moisturizer, body wash, shampoo, conditioner)

  • Glasses or contacts with solution (if applicable)

  • Going-home outfit (loose and comfortable)

For Baby:

  • Onesies or footed pajamas (size NB and 0-3M)

  • Swaddle or receiving blanket

  • Newborn hat

  • Diapers and wipes (hospital provides some, but having a few extra can help)

  • Infant car seat (must be installed in the car before discharge)

For Partner/Support Person:

  • Change of clothes - especially warm clothes if the laboring woman keeps the room cool.

  • Snacks and drinks

  • Phone charger

  • Toiletries (if staying overnight)

Margie Wallis

It's normal to feel both excited and anxious as you anticipate the birth of your baby! Frisco Birth Center specializes in guiding expectant families through pregnancy and birth so you feel safe, confident, informed and nurtured from your first prenatal appointment through the first weeks of your baby's life. Birth where you feel most comfortable — your home or our cozy home-like birth center in Old Town Frisco. We offer holistic care, body, mind and heart, blended with the tools of modern midwifery so you and your baby have evidence-based care in a supportive, comforting environment. With the Midwifery Model of Care, you are the center of our focus. Birth can be better.

https://FriscoMidwife.com
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