Labor and Delivery C-Sections Packing for a C-Section Hospital Bag By Robin Elise Weiss, PhD, MPH twitter linkedin Robin Elise Weiss, PhD, MPH is a professor, author, childbirth and postpartum educator, certified doula, and lactation counselor. Learn about our editorial process Robin Elise Weiss, PhD, MPH Medically reviewed by Medically reviewed by Anita Sadaty, MD on November 24, 2019 facebook linkedin Anita Sadaty, MD, is a board-certified obstetrician-gynecologist, resident instructor at Northwell Health, and founder of Redefining Health Medical. Learn about our Review Board Anita Sadaty, MD Updated on January 19, 2020 Print Anne Ackermann/Photodisc/Getty Images If you are having a scheduled c-section, you will still want to pack a hospital bag before your scheduled surgery. Here are some things that you'll want to take with you when you go to the hospital for your birth: Things to Pack Here are items to consider putting into your hospital bag: Music (to play while you wait or during the birth; this is a great calming technique)Camera Signed copies of your cesarean birth planAny clothes (such as a gown) of your own that you wish to wearSpecial clothes or a blanket for the babyList of people to call after the baby is born (including your childbirth educator)Lip Balm Baby Book for getting the footprints done by the nurse when she does the paperworkSocks for momSweater for support person (it can get cold!)Special foods or drinksCalling Card for Long Distance Calls (if you can't use your cell phone)Things to keep you busy should you wind up having a long waitCharging cables for electronic devices Your Postpartum Bag Below are items to pack to support your postpartum experience: Toothbrushes for everyone and toothpasteNursing bras and pads (preferably the washable, soft ones)Breastfeeding pillow to keep baby off your incisionBreastfeeding book Small pillow to brace your incisionGoing home outfit for babyBlanket for BabyChange of clothes for a partner and any toiletries neededYour own nightgown and/or robe (they will get dirty!)Personal Hygiene items (no-rinse shampoo, your own pads, etc)Underwear that is c-section friendlyNumber of La Leche League or other breastfeeding supportNumber of diaper service (if you need to arrange for delivery)Car Seat with instructionsGoing home outfit for mom (You will still be looking about 6 months pregnant. Most women wear the clothes that they wore to the hospital; some bring nursing shirts)Birth Announcements, stamps, envelopesYou might also consider packing a bag for dad too. 7 People Who Are Typically in the Delivery Room During a Birth You'll notice that the bags are listed in two different categories. This was intentional. Having all of your stuff with you when you are in the surgical area will be cumbersome. We recommend leaving your postpartum things in the car or having them brought to you later. For the birth itself, pack only what you will need in the first hours before, during, and after the birth. The good news is that if you forget something, you can usually get it replaced. You can run to the hospital gift shop, though this is typically more expensive. You can also run to a nearby store for some items. Don't stress too much! Also, as you move through the postpartum days, be sure to send things home with people so you don't feel like you're moving out on your last day. You should have just the basics left and move them out with any flowers or gifts that have been brought by visitors. Ask visitors not to bring gifts to the hospital and this will allow you the freedom to not have to bring it back home. Everything You Should Know About Giving Birth by C-Section Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Get diet and wellness tips to help your kids stay healthy and happy. Sign Up You're in! Thank you, {{form.email}}, for signing up. There was an error. Please try again. What are your concerns? Other Inaccurate Hard to Understand Submit