Packing the Hospital Bag for Delivery

Are you a first-time mother? Do you perhaps feel overloaded with and confused by information and other things needed to prepare for your child’s birth? To prepare for the delivery, it is advised to have a hospital bag packed for when the day arrives. To help you, here is a list of a few items you might want to pack for the hospital and that you might not have thought about.

1.     Hairbands, hair ties, hair clips…

 If your hair is long, you will probably want to pack anything that helps you to keep your hair out of your face. Hair getting in your face, sweaty and sticky will be annoying. Nothing that a ponytail and some hairclips can’t fix.

2.     Nursing bras

 If you’re planning on breastfeeding you baby, make sure to pack a couple of nursing bras – these may help breastfeeding easier by allowing fast and hassle-free access to food for the baby. In Phnom Penh, you can find nursing bras at many of the big markets, at Aeon mall and on baby and mother shops scattered around the city.

3.     Nipple cream

 Again, if you’re planning to breastfeed your baby, your nipples may become sore and sensitive. A nipple cream, such as lanolin, can help protect and sooth sores and cracked nipples as well as help them heal. You can find lanolin cream at pharmacies and at baby shops in the city.

4.     Water bottle

 Labor can take a long time and is very intensive. You will need to keep drinking so that you don’t become dehydrated. Pack a water bottle that allows you to drink while lying down -- hospitals normally give plastic cups and it can be tricky to drink from these during labor.

5.     Slippers

 Some women like to walk and not sit down during labor. A comfortable pair of slippers that are easy to slip on and off may come in handy.

6.     Favorite Snacks

 Labor can last for many hours and you will need energy. Pack your favorite snacks in your hospital bag so that you can replenish your energy reserves when in hospital. 

7.     Comfortable clothes

 Bring at least 2 sets of comfortable clothes to wear after your baby is born. After delivery, you will be sore and you probably won’t want to wear any tight-fitting clothes. A big button down shirt may be a good piece of clothing as it is easy to breastfeed in too.

8.     Toiletry bag

Don’t forget to pack a toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, shampoo, body lotion and conditioner in your hospital bag. A refreshing shower after delivery will make you feel better and you may want to use your own favorite toiletries. Also remember to bring lip balm as hospital air is often very dry and your lips may become sore quickly.

9.     Baby clothes 
Pack at least a couple of baby outfits for your baby. Make sure these have been washed and that they are soft and easy to slip on and off