Header for Alicia Mutch | Poppies Reaching Towards the Sky | Hypnotherapy and Massage Therapy | Healdsburg, California

I compiled this list with the help from “The Birth Partner,” by Penny Simkin, which is a fantastic book to prepare you for your partner’s upcoming birth. I added a few HypnoBirthing® specific enhancements as well.

For the Mom:

  • Unscented Oil (almond or sesame), lotion, or cornstarch for massage
  • Lip balm
  • Toothbrush & toothpaste
  • Pajamas that open in the front for breastfeeding, robe
  • Warm socks and slippers
  • Rolling pin and/or tennis balls for back massage
  • Extra pillows with distinctive pillowcases
  • Relaxation music
  • MP3 player, charger, headphones
  • Special objects or photographs
  • Coconut water, Recharge, snack foods
  • Cosmetics, toiletries
  • Eyeglasses & contact lenses
  • Hair bands
  • Nursing bras and pads
  • Underwear (several pairs)
  • Heavy-duty menstrual pads (usually provided by hospitals — ask first)
  • Reading and writing materials, address book, birth announcements
  • Money for incidentals
  • Health insurance card, photo ID
  • Going-home clothing

For the Birth Companion:

  • Extra copies of the Birth Preferences for the hospital staff
  • Birth Companion’s Prompt Card and Rainbow Relaxation script
  • Personal supplies (toothbrush, breath freshener, deodorant, shaver)
  • Food for snacks, such as sandwiches, fruit, crackers, beverages (consider beforehand what they will do to your breath)
  • Sweater/sweatshirt
  • Change of clothes
  • Swimsuit so you can accompany the mother in the shower
  • Paper and pencil
  • Other reading materials, or handwork, for slow times when the mother does not need your help
  • Phone numbers of people to call during or after labor
  • Cell phone with battery recharger
  • Camera (still or video), film or videotape, batteries

For the Baby:

  • Undershirt or onesie
  • Outer clothing (hat, warm clothing)
  • Receiving blanket
  • Car seat

For the Trip to the Hospital or Birth Center:

  • A full tank of gas
  • A blanket and pillow in the car
  • Extra towels for mom to sit on
  • A shower curtain or garbage bags for the car seat

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