Community Healthy Start at Mary's Center
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Eliminating Racial & Ethnic Disparities in perinatal health, encourage healthy pregnancies, improve birth outcomes, reduce the infant mortality rate
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    Mary's Center for Maternal &
    Child Care
    2333 Ontario Road, NW
    Washington, DC 20010

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What to Pack in Your Hospital Bag

The last few weeks of pregnancy take forever, but that baby will come soon -- and you will need to be prepared! Here's a list of the necessities as well as a few "extras" that should be ready by the end of your thirty-sixth week. If you know you will have an extended stay in the hospital (with a c-section, for instance), be sure to plan accordingly.

  • Nightgown, Slippers and Socks
    The hospital may insist you wear one of their gowns but eventually you will likely want your own pajamas. If you are nursing, be sure to bring a gown that opens down the front
  • Underwear
    The hosipital will provide you with underwear which is a good idea for the first day since your underwear could become bloodstained from lochia after delivery if your pad leaks. Later you may feel most comfortable wearing your own underwear.
  • Toiletries & Sanitary Napkins
    The hospital will likely provide napkins for you, but if you bring your own make sure they are highly absorbent napkins with plenty of coverage for your undies.
  • Mom's Going-Home Outfit
    OK, it's time for a reality check! Your pre-pregnancy jeans will most likely not fit you home from the hospital. Choose something loose fitting and comfortable. Don't worry, it takes time for most women's bodies to shrink back to pre-pregnancy size and if you have a c-section you will appreciate something loose at your waist.
  • Baby Clothes
    Most moms bring something special for their little ones to wear on their first outings into the world. Also remember that 0-3 month clothing, may look small to you but it still may fit a little big on the baby. If you really want the going home outfit to fit, get a preemie size suit as a back-up. Remember the time of the year when you choose an outfit for your newborn.
  • The Diaper Bag
    Say hello to the bag! Pack the baby's thing in the bag. Don't forget to bring a few diapers and some gentle wipes.
  • Receiving Blankets
    Most newborns love to be swaddled and that is what those little blankets are for!.
  • Phone Book & Calling Card
    You'll want to call everyone and the hospital will not want to pay the hospital's long distance rates.
  • Camera
    This is a once in a lifetime moment get it on film.
  • Snacks
    Snacks are always nice. The food at the hospital may not be what you want or when you want it. Also Dad may want a snack. It's also nice to have a healthy snack for after delivery -- you may be starving and very thirsty (hey, having a baby is hard work!), and if it's the middle of the night you'll be grateful to have something to munch on.
  • Breastfeeding Information
    Bring a breastfeeding book or consider scheduling a lactation consultant to visit you after the baby is born. Some hospitals provide this service, but it's a good idea to double check with your provider and insurance company beforehand.
  • Car Seat
    Your baby won't be allowed to ride home without a car seat!
Pic of Ultrasound
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