3 Unexpected Things I Always Recommend Packing for the Hospital
As a Certified Nurse Midwife who’s attended hundreds of births and currently works at a hospital in San Diego, I’ve seen every kind of hospital bag—from overstuffed suitcases to folks who show up with just a phone charger and vibes.
Over the years, I’ve noticed a few underrated items that make a huge difference in how people feel during their birth experience—things I feel like lists online sometimes forget. Here are three of my favorite “midwife-approved” extras to bring:
1. Eye Mask + Ear Plugs
Hospitals are noisy, bright, and just not designed for deep rest. Imagine you need a multi-day induction and every 20 minutes an alarm goes off. Eye masks and ear plugs help create a you get a little rest so you can stay resilient during labor and are ready to push.
2. Shower Shoes
Hydrotherapy, which involves the use of water for pain relief during labor, has been shown to effectively reduce labor pain. A systematic review and meta-analysis found that immersion in water during the first stage of labor significantly decreased pain compared to standard care. Additionally, research indicates that women who used hydrotherapy reported it to be more effective at relieving labor discomfort than opioid pain medications like fentanyl. But hospital showers are shared and not exactly spa-like. A cheap pair of rubber flip-flops makes that first postpartum shower way more comfortable—and yes, more sanitary. Trust me on this one.
3. Flameless Candles or String Lights
This might sound extra, but soft, warm lighting can totally transform the energy in a hospital room. We know that people’s psyche (state of mind) has a strong influence on labor and during pushing. Harsh overhead lights mess with your ability to rest and can make labor feel more medical. Battery-powered candles or fairy lights bring a calming, homey vibe to your space.
Your birth environment matters. These little touches may seem small, but they can help you feel more grounded, less anxious, and more you in a place that can feel unfamiliar.
Want help building a truly personalized hospital bag checklist? That’s part of what I offer through NĀMU—concierge-style childbirth education tailored to you.