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Labor Preparation Checklist

Comprehensive checklist covering everything you need to prepare for labor, from 36 weeks to delivery day.

36 Weeks - Early Preparation

Medical Preparations

  • Schedule weekly prenatal appointments
  • Discuss birth plan with healthcare provider
  • Get Group B Strep test results
  • Confirm pediatrician for baby
  • Review insurance coverage and hospital policies

Physical Preparations

  • Install and inspect car seat
  • Start packing hospital bag
  • Prepare home for postpartum recovery
  • Stock up on postpartum supplies
  • Prepare freezer meals

38 Weeks - Active Preparation

Documentation & Communication

  • Finalize birth plan and share with care team
  • Create emergency contact list
  • Confirm hospital registration
  • Download contraction timing app
  • Practice timing contractions with partner

Home Preparations

  • Set up nursery essentials
  • Wash and organize baby clothes
  • Charge all electronic devices
  • Fill car with gas
  • Know multiple routes to hospital

39-40 Weeks - Final Preparations

Last-Minute Tasks

  • Complete hospital bag packing
  • Put hospital bag in car
  • Double-check car seat installation
  • Confirm childcare arrangements for other children
  • Review labor signs and when to call provider

Mental Preparation

  • Practice relaxation and breathing techniques
  • Visualize positive birth experience
  • Discuss fears and concerns with support team
  • Create positive affirmations
  • Get adequate rest and nutrition

Emergency Preparedness

Important Numbers

  • Healthcare provider's emergency line: ___________
  • Hospital labor & delivery: ___________
  • Backup healthcare provider: ___________
  • Doula or birth coach: ___________
  • Emergency contact for other children: ___________

Emergency Scenarios

  • Know signs of emergency (bleeding, decreased movement)
  • Plan for rapid labor (less than 3 hours)
  • Know what to do if water breaks
  • Plan for partner being away when labor starts
  • Know backup transportation to hospital

Hospital Bag Essentials

For Mom

  • Comfortable labor gown or nightgown
  • Nursing bras (2-3)
  • Comfortable underwear (disposable)
  • Going-home outfit (maternity size)
  • Toiletries and personal care items
  • Phone charger and camera
  • Snacks and water bottle

For Baby

  • Going-home outfit (newborn & 0-3 months)
  • Receiving blankets
  • Swaddle blankets
  • Burp cloths
  • Newborn diapers (backup)
  • Car seat (properly installed)

For Partner

  • Change of clothes (2-3 days)
  • Toiletries and personal items
  • Phone charger
  • Snacks and drinks
  • Entertainment (books, tablet)
  • Comfortable shoes

Important Documents & Information

Required Documents

  • Photo ID and insurance cards
  • Hospital pre-registration paperwork
  • Birth plan copies
  • Emergency contact information
  • Pediatrician contact information

Medical Information

  • Prenatal records and test results
  • Medication list and allergies
  • Blood type information
  • Group B Strep test results
  • Any special medical considerations

Postpartum Preparation

Home Setup

  • Set up changing station
  • Prepare comfortable nursing area
  • Stock up on newborn supplies
  • Prepare recovery supplies for mom
  • Arrange help for household tasks

Support System

  • Arrange postpartum doula or helper
  • Schedule lactation consultant if needed
  • Plan meal delivery or meal prep
  • Arrange childcare for other children
  • Plan visitor guidelines and boundaries

Final Week Before Due Date

Daily Tasks

  • Monitor baby's movements daily
  • Stay hydrated and eat regular meals
  • Practice relaxation techniques
  • Keep phone charged and nearby
  • Stay close to home (within 30 minutes of hospital)

Signs to Watch For

  • Regular contractions (start timing!)
  • Water breaking or leaking
  • Bloody show or mucus plug
  • Severe or persistent back pain
  • Feeling like you need to push

Save this checklist to your phone or print it for easy reference

Related Resources

Hospital Bag Checklist

Detailed packing list for your hospital stay.

Complete Guide to Labor Preparation

In-depth article about preparing for labor and delivery.