Checklists

It is beneficial to have your bag packed and ready to take to the hospital several weeks before your due date, so when labor begins -- you'll be ready! Below is a list of common items to pack for both mom and baby:

CHECKLIST: Preparing for your hospital stay
During Your First Trimester (wks 1-12)
___	Connect with an obstetric care provider and schedule your prenatal care.
During Your Second Trimester (wks 13-28)
___	Complete the St. Mary’s OB Registration Form and return it to the hospital.
___	Sign up now for a Childbirth Class (deancare.com or ghcscw.com).
___	Sign up now for a Hospital OB Tour. Sibling Tours (ages 3-7 will enjoy) can be scheduled by calling 608-258-5065.
___	Sign up now for free classes (Breastfeeding, Caring For Your Newborn and Postpartum Care).
___	Read the Notice of Privacy Practices and frequently asked questions.
___	Read your Patient Rights and Responsibilities.
___	Read the Conditions of Admission Agreement. You’ll be asked to sign this form when you come to the hospital to deliver.
___	Write down your birth plan and share it with your obstetric care provider at a prenatal appointment.
___	Acquire a car seat.
___	Schedule a car seat check. Call 608-890-8999 for an appointment. Availability is limited, so please call several months in advance to be sure you get in before your delivery day.
___	If you are age 18 or over, please consider completing a Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care before you’re admitted to the hospital. Click here for details and forms.
When Your Third Trimester Starts (wks 29-40)
___	Return your OB Registration Form to St. Mary’s Hospital (if you haven’t done so already).
___	Pack your bag for your hospital stay.
___	Arrange for transportation to the hospital and transportation for you and baby when you’re ready to go home.
___	Communicate with loved ones regarding your wishes for visitors at the hospital versus at home.
___	Arrange child care if necessary. Children under 12 must be supervised while at the hospital by an adult other than you or your labor coach.
___	Arrange for someone to care for your pet(s) while you’re in the hospital.

CHECKLIST: Preparing for your hospital stay
___	Clothes for mom
___	Robe and slippers
___	Pacifier (not provided by hospital)
___	Toiletries
___	Camera
___	Clothes for baby to wear home
___	Special outfit for baby’s first picture, if desired
___	Baby book, especially if you’d like footprints added
___	Music CDs, especially if you’d like for relaxation during labor
___	DVDs, if desired
___	Supportive bra, nursing bra if breastfeeding
___	Breast pump and Boppy® or similar pillow if breastfeeding
___	Car seat
___	3 receiving blankets (in case needed for proper support of baby in car seat)