One common concern for parents is preparing the birth bag early and for every possibility. This act not only helps you feel more prepared but is also a way to care for yourself and your baby.
Preparing the bag is a great opportunity to become aware that the birth is approaching and to think about your needs for the days before and after the birth.
The recommendation is to have it ready by the 36th week, about one month before your due date.
If you plan to give birth in a hospital, each facility has specific guidelines about what to bring, often based on the services they provide. Here are links to some hospitals in Milan:
- San Giuseppe Hospital (link)
- Buzzi Hospital (link)
- Mangiagalli Clinic (link)
- Pio X Hospital (link)
- Niguarda Hospital (link)
You can find similar information for other hospitals or ask your midwife directly.
What to bring?
For labor:
Bring anything that helps you relax and create a familiar environment, promoting the production of trust and labor hormones, such as:
- Music (your favorite playlists)
- Familiar scents, like some essential oils
- Energy snacks (nuts, chocolate, etc.)
Other useful items:
- Pregnancy folder with exams and ultrasounds
- ID documents of the parents
- Phone charger
- Avoid bringing large amounts of money or valuables
For the mother:
- Nightshirt with buttons (easy for the first skin-to-skin contact)
- Comfortable clothes for your hospital stay (nightshirt, robe)
- Comfortable underwear, mesh or disposable
- Postpartum pads
- Toiletry bag with personal hygiene products
- Shower slippers
- Breastfeeding bras are not necessary for the hospital stay.
- The items needed are the same even in case of a cesarean section.
For the baby:
- At least four changes of clothes, ideally packed in small bags
- Bodysuits
- Socks
- Cotton and/or flannel onesies
- Hat
- Wool or cotton blanket
Involve your partner
Prepare the bag together with your birth partner so they know what’s inside. This is also a moment of sharing.
It’s useful to organize two bags: one for the mother and one for the baby. The partner can also prepare a small bag with what they need to get through labor and afterward.
Home birth
If you choose to give birth at home, it is important to prepare everything needed for labor and birth well in advance, with the help of your midwives.
Also, have a bag ready in case of transfer to the hospital.