The Birth Center
at Mason General Hospital
What to Bring to the Hospital
For Mom:
- Childbirth class exercise book, if you have used one
- Personal address book or phone list
- Camera and/or video camera, film or storage media, extra batteries (remember to ask your caregivers about their preferences for being filmed or photographed)
- CD player, CDs, MP3 player, etc.
- Labor focal point - picture, stuffed animal, or other item to look at
- Personal care items: lip balm, toothbrush, toothpaste, comb/brush, personal grooming items (MGH has soap, shampoo, and conditioner - but you may prefer your own)
- Robe, socks, slippers
- Nursing bra or comfortable supportive bra
- Bra pads if breastfeeding (may need enough for a few days if formula feeding)
- Maternity clothes for going home
- Activities - cards, games, books, magazines
For Baby:
- Car Seat - install the base in your car per the manufacturer's directions and your car manual instructions. We strongly recommend having the installation checked at one of the area's free car seat check locations. Local and the Olympia Auto Mall dealers sponsor checks, and some police and fire stations can do them. Practice inserting and removing the carrier part. Bring the carrier part to The Birth Center at MGH the day of discharge, and we will help with adjustments to the straps after the baby is placed in it the first time
- Booties, hat
- "Going Home" outfit - undershirt, gown or outfit
- 1 - 2 receiving blankets
- Bunting bag or heavy blanket - depending on weather
- If formula feeding - have formula, bottles, nipples ready at home
- Burp rag (cloth diaper works well)
- Baby book to have guests sign (so you have a list of visitors)