Packing the hospital bag for the birth

When it comes to hospital bags, there seem to be endless opinions. But what really needs to go into the hospital for the birth? In this article, we share our recommendations for an ideally packed hospital bag and when the right time to pack is. A quick note: you shouldn't wait until right before heading to the hospital! ;)

When should I pack my hospital bag?

Those who pack a hospital bag before the estimated due date can be assured that nothing will be missing during the birth at the hospital and also during the subsequent stay. Many pregnant women find comfort in knowing that they don't have to wait until labor begins to be prepared. Contractions must be packed after all the necessary items are gathered. And to be honest: packing the hospital bag also increases the anticipation of your baby's upcoming arrival, doesn't it? Our midwife Sissi recommends that the hospital bag between the 32nd and 34th week of pregnancy packed and ready to hand. It’s not uncommon for little explorers to decide a bit earlier than planned to see the light of day. If you more than one baby It makes sense to start preparing between the 28th and 30th week of pregnancy. By the way, we also recommend packing a hospital bag even if you actually have one. Home birth plans. Unfortunately, complications sometimes cannot be anticipated, and if they do occur, it must be done even more quickly.

What to pack in the hospital bag?

To find out what you will need during your stay in the hospital, it is advisable to visit the desired delivery room a few weeks before the due date. During an on-site visit, you can easily ask what pregnant women should bring themselves. Because this can vary from hospital to hospital. Our midwife Sissi regularly advises her expectant mothers on the topic of hospital bags. If you want to pack your bag together with her, then watch our YouTube video:

Alternatively, with their years of expertise, we have also compiled a comprehensive overview of all important utensils for you:

Important documents

• Maternity Record

• Health insurance card

• Identity Card

• Gynecologist's certificate (if available)

• Allergy pass (if necessary)

• If the clinic handles the registration with the registry office: family register book/marriage certificate (if you are married to the child's father) or birth certificate or acknowledgment of paternity (if you are single or unmarried). For same-sex couples, adoption is necessary for both partners to become legal parents of the child.

For the birth

• Multiple shirts or blouses (preferably loose-fitting, for changing during contractions)

• Warm socks and slippers (believe it or not: cold feet inhibit contractions)

• Meals (for example fruit juice, glucose tablets, granola bars) or money for the cafeteria (also for your companion)

• For entertainment: books, magazines, smartphone*, tablet* and the associated chargers (*please check beforehand if these are allowed in the clinic), also: headphones and your favorite/birth playlist

• Lip balm (lips often become dry due to conscious breathing)

• Massage oil (if you want to be massaged during labor). For example, our LILLYDOO for mom pregnancy care oil is very suitable. The oil made from 100% natural ingredients allows your hands to glide gently over the skin during a massage and soothes it.

• Small pillow (during a longer labor or on the postpartum ward, it's nice to have your own familiar pillow with you)

• Camera (if you want to capture this unique experience visually)

• Hair clip or hair tie

• Contact lens wearers: storage box, contact lens solution, and your glasses (You should not wear contact lenses during contractions and childbirth)

• Vessel for the placenta (if you want to take your placenta home)

For the new mom

• Nursing pads (for the start of milk flow)

• Two nursing bras (preferably two sizes larger than before)

• Multiple slips (either for single use or boilable)

• Comfortable clothing (sweatpants, tops, bathrobe, for breastfeeding a button-up pajama is best)

• Typical toiletries (toothbrush, face cream, deodorant, hairbrush, etc.)

• Nipple balm (provides protection and cares for before and during breastfeeding)

• If you do not want to use the products in the clinic:

  • heavy pads (tampons are not recommended after childbirth)

  • towels and washcloths

• Address book and small change for making calls (if mobile phone use is prohibited in the clinic)

• Abdominal belt (this supports postpartum recovery and wound healing after cesarean sections)

For the baby

• Clothing (one to two bodysuits, a romper, a wrap-around jacket, and socks) and several burp cloths

• Bottles and formula (if you are not breastfeeding and do not want to use the clinic's products)

• Almond oil (with which you can clean your baby's skin folds and perhaps already perform a first baby massage )

• Wound protection cream (which you hopefully won't need yet)

• For the day of discharge:

  • 2-3 diapers (even better: Have a whole month's supply delivered to your home shortly before the birth via the LILLYDOO diaper subscription )

  • Weather-appropriate clothing (e.g., jacket, hat, and gloves in winter)

  • Carrier and blanket or baby car seat (can also be brought by someone on the day of discharge)

The list is based on Sissi's years of experience with childbirth and has proven itself many times over. Nevertheless, you might have a tip that is not yet on this list. Then let us know! We look forward to more suggestions! :)

Maybe you also think that the list is already too extensive? Then simply adjust the list to your needs. Especially for your stay in the clinic, you can also have missing items brought to you by your visitor. But if you're unsure and prefer to pack more, you're on the safe side and can fully concentrate on what really matters during the birth and afterwards: the new family member.

We hope our list helps you and wish you heartfelt joy in preparing for the baby adventure!