Every doula gets asked the same question by every client: what do I actually need in my hospital bag? The online lists exist, but they leave everyone wondering what's missing, what's overkill, and what they'll actually use. So Amsy sat down to go through it — category by category — so you can send this episode to your pregnant friend instead of typing it all out again.
Documents & essentials: ID, insurance card, phone, extra long charger, and two printed copies of your birth plan. Pro tip: have your partner memorize the intake questions ahead of time. Nobody wants to answer the same questions four times while contracting.
Labor comfort: Battery-operated candles, a TENS unit, spiky balls, an eye mask or sunglasses (bright lights are a hormone disrupter), earplugs, lip balm, hair ties with no metal, massage tools, essential oils, and your own pillows and blankets.
Clothes: Skip the hospital gown — bring your own. Pack a robe, slippers, shower shoes, loose pajamas, nursing-friendly tops, and a going-home outfit. Bring more than you think you need.
Snacks — their own category, as they should be: You are allowed to eat in labor. Pack granola bars, electrolyte packets, peanut butter pouches, honey sticks, and gum. Even if you don't touch anything during labor, you'll be glad you have snacks at 3am.
Postpartum: Your own toiletries, your own nipple balm (skip the lanolin), and any medications including Tums — it takes forever for the hospital to bring them.
For your partner: Layers, their own toiletries, charger, snacks, and their own pillow — they are not getting yours.
Baby: Car seat installed, going-home outfit, your own baby soap. Less clothing than you think — newborns spend most of their time skin-to-skin or in just a diaper.
Leave at home: A suitcase of baby clothes, multiple swaddles, your giant diaper box, and books. (Card game only if it's a long induction.)
C-section bonus: High-waisted underwear, loose pants, slip-on shoes, and a pillow for the ride home.
Final word: Have your partner pack the bag so they know where everything is. Leave the boppy and pump supplies in the car. And remember — it's not prison. You can have things delivered if you forget something. The most important things you'll bring are your support team and your flexibility.
Download Stephanie's Breastfeeding Survival Guide HERE!
Download the Labor & Delivery Admission Guide from Jen Hamilton at https://www.jenhamilton.co/resources
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Website: amsydeesdoula.com
Instagram: @amsydees.doula
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DISCLAMER: The views shared on this podcast are our own and do not represent any specific organization. This podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Please consult your healthcare provider for guidance specific to your care.