19.08.2024

The baby is coming: Our checklist for the birth and your hospital stay

The big moment is approaching: your baby will soon see the light of day. A birth is a unique experience full of emotions and anticipation, but also uncertainty and fears. So that you can fully focus on yourself and your baby during these important hours, it makes sense to prepare for the upcoming hospital stay.

In this article, we have put together what you need to pack in your hospital bag and what else you need to think about. This way, you will be well prepared for the start of a new, very special stage in your life.

Hospital bag: preparation is everything

You will spend a few days in hospital after the birth. It is best to pack your hospital bag around four to six weeks before your due date so that you are well prepared when you go into labour.

We generally recommend very loose and soft cotton clothing that will not irritate the fresh scar, especially after a caesarean section. As you may be weakened after the birth, it is advisable to pack care products that you can also use in bed if necessary, for example a mouthwash or dry shampoo.

Here are some lists of the most important things to pack in your bag. Write down everything you will need in your everyday life until the birth (e.g. charging cable, ID card) on a piece of paper and put it at the top of your bag so that you don't forget anything at the end. Get into the habit of keeping these things in a specific place to avoid having to search for them when time is short.

Documents and items for the drive to the clinic

Identity card or passport
Health insurance card
Allergy pass, blood group pass and other laboratory results, if applicable
Absorbent pad or a large towel for the car journey to the clinic
Your birth plan with specific wishes for the birth and the time afterwards (if available)

For yourself

Comfortable clothing (loose T-shirts, jumpers, jogging trousers)
Cotton pants (wide, comfortable and washable or disposable)
If you want to breastfeed: Clothes with an opening or button placket at the front
Warm socks
Bathrobe
Slippers or non-slip socks
Nursing bras and nursing pads
Toiletries and cosmetics according to your personal needs
Mobile phone and charger
Extra absorbent pads (no tampons)

For your baby

Baby clothes for the journey home, suitable for the season (sizes 50 to 62)
Nappies for newborns
Baby wipes and wound protection cream
Blanket
Burp cloths
Car seat for the car, pram or baby sling if necessary

For your partner

Identity card
Comfortable clothes
Toiletries and cosmetics according to his or her personal needs
Snacks and drinks for in-between meals
Mobile phone and charger

Emergency plan

Make sure you have a plan in case you go into labour unexpectedly. How do you get to the hospital? Do you have the most important telephone numbers to hand?

Also plan who can help you at home in the first few days if necessary.

Calculate your pregnancy

Relaxation exercises and comforting tips for the birth

Get instructed in breathing techniques and relaxation exercises. Some people also swear by hypnobirthing, where you learn techniques that help pregnant women to put themselves into a deep state of relaxation during labour.
Take personal items with you that you can use to create a familiar environment.
Create a playlist with relaxing and calming music.