Why a Hospital Checklist Matters

Being prepared for labor is more than just about convenience—it’s about creating an environment where you feel supported and comfortable. Research has shown that a positive birth experience can improve postpartum recovery and reduce the likelihood of birth-related complications such as perineal trauma and pelvic floor dysfunction. By packing essential items ahead of time, you’ll be better equipped to manage both labor and recovery.

Hospital Checklist: Labor and Delivery

1. Comfortable Clothing for Labor

While many hospitals provide gowns, you may feel more comfortable in your own clothing. Loose-fitting, breathable clothing is ideal for labor, as it allows freedom of movement and comfort.

Why It’s Important: Moving around during labor, particularly during early labor, can help reduce pain and speed up labor progression. A study published in Cochrane Reviews found that women who stayed mobile during labor had shorter active labor and a decreased need for interventions (Level 1 evidence).

2. Birth Ball or Peanut Ball

A birth ball (exercise ball) or peanut ball is a fantastic tool to aid with positioning during labor, particularly for helping the baby descend into the pelvis.

Why It’s Important: Using a birth ball can encourage optimal fetal positioning and help open the pelvis, facilitating the baby’s descent. Studies have shown that the use of a peanut ball can shorten labor and reduce the need for cesarean sections (Level 1 evidence).

3. Compression Stockings

Swollen legs and feet are common during labor due to prolonged standing or lying down. Wearing compression stockings during labor helps improve blood circulation and reduce the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

Why It’s Important: Compression therapy has been shown to reduce the incidence of DVT during labor and postpartum (Level 1 evidence). Graduated compression stockings can help maintain circulation, particularly if you have an extended labor.

4. Heat and Cold Packs

Heat packs can be helpful during labor to ease back pain or pelvic discomfort, while cold packs can reduce swelling and provide pain relief.

Why It’s Important: Both heat and cold therapy have been shown to reduce pain perception during labor, with studies suggesting that heat applied to the lower back significantly reduces pain intensity (Level 1 evidence).

5. Water Bottle and Snacks

Staying hydrated is critical during labor, especially if labor is long. Pack a reusable water bottle and light, energy-boosting snacks to maintain energy levels.

Why It’s Important: Staying hydrated and nourished helps maintain stamina during labor. Research shows that women who are well-hydrated and nourished during labor experience better energy levels and a lower risk of complications such as dehydration (Level 1 evidence).

Hospital Checklist: Postpartum Recovery

6. Perineal Ice Packs and Perineal Spray

After a vaginal delivery, you may experience swelling or tearing of the perineum (the area between the vagina and anus). Cold therapy can help reduce inflammation and relieve pain, while perineal sprays can soothe the area.

Why It’s Important: Research shows that cold therapy (cryotherapy) applied to the perineal area in the first 24-72 hours postpartum reduces swelling and pain (Level 1 evidence). Perineal sprays, particularly those containing witch hazel, can also aid healing.

7. Maternity Pads and Mesh Underwear

Heavy bleeding, known as lochia, occurs in the days following delivery as your body sheds the uterine lining. Having high-absorbency maternity pads and comfortable mesh underwear is essential for managing postpartum bleeding.

Why It’s Important: Using specially designed postpartum pads and breathable underwear helps prevent infection and promotes healing, especially if you’ve had perineal stitches. Evidence shows that proper hygiene and care in the immediate postpartum period are crucial for preventing complications like infection and delayed healing (Level 1 evidence).

8. Abdominal Binder

For women recovering from a cesarean section, an abdominal binder can provide much-needed support to the incision area and help reduce pain during movement. It can also offer support to the abdominal muscles in women who have experienced diastasis recti.

Why It’s Important: A randomized controlled trial showed that women who used abdominal binders post-cesarean reported less pain, improved mobility, and quicker recovery compared to those who did not use them (Level 1 evidence).

9. Nursing Bra and Breast Pads

Whether or not you plan to breastfeed, you’ll likely experience breast changes postpartum, including leaking. A supportive nursing bra and absorbent breast pads can provide comfort and keep you dry.

Why It’s Important: Wearing a supportive bra postpartum can help reduce discomfort associated with breast engorgement. Studies suggest that proper breast care during the early postpartum days reduces the risk of mastitis and nipple pain (Level 1 evidence).

10. Gentle Toiletries

Pack gentle toiletries for postpartum care, including unscented soap, a peri-bottle for rinsing after using the bathroom, and lip balm. These items are essential for maintaining hygiene while being gentle on your healing body.

Why It’s Important: Good hygiene postpartum is critical for preventing infection, particularly if you have had an episiotomy or cesarean section. A peri-bottle, in particular, can reduce discomfort during urination and promote healing (Level 1 evidence).

Hospital Checklist: Supporting Pelvic Floor Recovery

11. Pelvic Floor Muscle Training (PFMT) Guide

Pelvic floor exercises, or Kegels, are essential postpartum to restore strength to the muscles that support your bladder, uterus, and bowel. Bring a guide or reminder to practice these exercises as soon as you are able.

Why It’s Important: Research shows that women who engage in pelvic floor muscle training postpartum have a significantly lower risk of developing urinary incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse (Level 1 evidence). Early initiation of PFMT can improve long-term outcomes for pelvic health recovery.

12. Supportive Postpartum Garments

Postpartum compression garments, such as high-waisted leggings or belly wraps, provide additional support to your abdomen and pelvic area as your body recovers.

Why It’s Important: Studies support the use of postpartum compression garments to enhance abdominal muscle recovery, reduce pain, and improve functional mobility after both vaginal and cesarean births (Level 1 evidence).

Other Essentials

13. Phone Charger and Entertainment

Labor can take hours, and there may be periods of downtime where you’ll appreciate distractions such as books, music, or podcasts. Don’t forget your phone charger to stay connected with loved ones.

14. Birth Plan and Medical Documents

Bring copies of your birth plan, insurance information, and any relevant medical records. Your birth plan can outline your preferences for pain relief, delivery positions, and newborn care, which can guide the healthcare team.

15. Going-Home Outfit for You and Baby

Pack a comfortable outfit for yourself and an easy-to-dress outfit for your baby’s first trip home. Choose loose-fitting clothing, as you’ll still experience postpartum changes in body shape.

Conclusion

Being well-prepared for your hospital stay can make a significant difference in your birth experience. From compression stockings to perineal care essentials, these items are designed to support your body through labor and recovery, based on Level 1 evidence. By following this hospital checklist, you’ll ensure you have everything you need for a safe, comfortable, and supported birthing experience.