Pre-Labor & Delivery Checklist
- Buy several nursing bras (choose cotton cups that are not lined with plastic and two extra clasp-widths in back for expanded comfort).
- If you'll be returning to work while you're still nursing, you may want to buy a good breast pump now.
- Get your baby's room ready.
- Pack a labor bag for the hospital.
- Pack your suitcase for the hospital.
- Pack for your baby.
- Discuss and decide about circumcision, should your baby be a boy.
- Complete your birth plan with your labor companion and discuss it with your health care provider.
- If you have older children, decide whether or not you want them at the birth and/or at the hospital.
- Organize help for when you get home from the hospital. Call friends and family, or hire help (cleaning service, catered meals delivered to your home, doula).
- Stock your freezer with nutritious, easy-to-prepare meals for after your baby's birth.
- Pre-register at your hospital.
- Make a list of important telephone numbers (health care provider, ambulance, hospital).
- Know the route to the hospital and plan an alternate route.
- Keep ample gas in the car at all times.
- Place towels in the case in case your water breaks while on the way to the hospital.
- Talk with your health care provider about a postpartum home care nursing visit.