What to Pack in Your Labor Bag

At some point during your pregnancy, you will start thinking about what to pack in your bag for the hospital or birth center. Many moms focus on what they'll need for for their stay after the birth -- change of clothes, toiletries, baby's outfit, etc. It's just as important to think about -- and pack a separate bag for -- what you'll need during labor. The following list provides suggestions for items that can help bring you comfort during labor. Please add to our list with your own suggestions in the comments!

For you:

• A copy of your birth plan
• Socks/slippers
• Flip flops or other "shower shoes"
• Your own pillow with a case that is not white and that can get dirty
• Birth/yoga ball and pump (bring ball already pumped)
• Chapstick
• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Massage oil/lotion and massage tools
• Your own clothes to wear in labor (if desired and if you don't mind getting them dirty)
• Robe
• Reference guide or printouts for labor comfort reminders (Labor Lab and The Birth Partner are great!)
• Focal point or special item to hold in your hand
• Water bottle
• Nourishment: solids, liquids, easy to digest, hard candy : bring a variety
• Mints or gum
• Hair ties or clips
• Music (create a playlist or use a service like Pandora)
• Phone/iPad/laptop and chargers
• Heating pad or rice sock
• Essential oils or scents
• Anything else to make you feel comfortable ____________________________________

For your partner/birth support:

• Change of clothes
• Food & drinks for your partner
• Camera
• Phone
• Pillow
• 5 Hour Energy, coffee or something similar to help stay awake