What you should put in your hospital bag

Near the beginning of the third trimester, that is, around week 37, it is advisable to have the hospital bag ready for your baby delivery. If it is your first baby, there are many things that you could require and may not have at hand if there is no one to advise you on time. Therefore, here we prepared a list of the clothes and accessories that you will need so that the arrival of your baby is comfortable and happy.

For Mom

  • Robe
  • Nightgown pajamas with front slit Slippers
  • Slippers
  • 2 pairs of compression stockings
  • 2 nursing bras
  • 3 or 4 postpartum panties
  • Post-partum girdle
  • One packet of heavy flow sanitary pads
  • A complete change of loose clothing and flat shoes for the hospital discharge
  • Basic toiletry bag with toothbrush and toothpaste, deodorant, razor, shaving cream
  • Mild soap
  • Face and body towel (if you will deliver in a public hospital)

For the baby

  • 1 package of “Newborn” stage diapers
  • 2 to 3 bodysuits (short-sleeved if it’s hot weather, long-sleeved if it’s cold)
  • 2 rompers
  • 1 yellow romper for the day of discharge from the hospital (considered good luck)
  • 3 thin cotton blankets to wrap
  • 3 pairs of socks
  • 2 hats
  • 1 or 2 thick blankets or swaddles
  • Comb or brush

For dad, in case of accompanying the delivery

  • Pajamas
  • Slippers
  • 2 complete changes of clothes
  • Basic toiletry bag with toothbrush, deodorant, rake, shaving cream

Miscellaneous items

  • Wallet
  • ID cards
  • Keys
  • Antibacterial gel
  • Face mask
  • Insurance documents
  • Phone charger
  • Pillow and blanket (in case you don’t want to pay an extra bed charge in the hospital)
  • Car seat for the baby (in some hospitals it is a requirement to discharge the baby)

The IMSS recommends the following for beneficiaries who will deliver at its clinics:

  • Be accompanied by your partner or an adult.
  • Bring the Certificate of the Pregnant Woman and the “pass” from the doctor with the valid stamp.
  • Do not wear rings, earrings, chains, or watch; do not bring your handbag, or money.
  • Go with short and unpainted nails; do not wear artificial nails.
  • Wear no makeup or false eyelashes.
  • Preferably, take a shower before going to the hospital.
  • Bring, in a transparent plastic bag: comb, toothpaste and toothbrush, toilet paper, soap, towel and sandals or slippers.
  • Do not bring children with you.

* Find everything you need for your baby in our Online Store.

Translated by: Ligia M. Oliver MAnrique de Lara

Spanish version