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Preparation Checklists

Everything you need,
in the right order

Four comprehensive checklists — from hospital bag to postpartum recovery. Check items off as you go, print, or email yourself a copy.

Lists
🏥Hospital Bag
📋Birth Plan
💛Postpartum
👶Newborn Essentials

Hospital Bag

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For you — Labour & Delivery
Health card & photo ID Must
Birth plan copies (3–5 printed)
Comfortable robe or zip-front PJs
Non-slip socks or slippers
Hair ties / clips
Phone charger + portable battery
Snacks for labour (granola bars, electrolyte drinks)
Toiletries (travel-size shampoo, toothbrush, face wipes)
Lip balm — lips get very dry during labour
Warm blanket or pillow from home
For you — Postpartum Stay
Nursing bra or sleep bra (x2)
Loose, comfortable going-home outfit
Nipple cream (lanolin or similar)
Breast pads
Comfortable underwear (high-waist or disposable)
Entertainment (tablet, headphones, book)
For baby
Going-home outfit (two sizes: newborn + 0–3M) Tip
Infant car seat (installed and inspected) Must
Swaddle blanket
Baby hat + scratch mittens
Diapers (hospital usually provides, but bring a few)
Admin 🍁 Canadian
Provincial health card
Insurance info if applicable
List of support contacts and birth team

Birth Plan

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Before you write it
Research pain management options (epidural, nitrous, hydrotherapy)
Discuss preferences with your OB or midwife
Consider who you want in the room
Discuss c-section preferences if needed
Labour preferences
Pain management preference noted
Movement during labour (walk, birth ball, water)
Music or ambient preferences
Photography / video preferences
IV or hep-lock preference
Delivery preferences
Pushing position preference
Cord cutting — who cuts? Delayed clamping?
Skin-to-skin immediately after birth
Placenta preferences (keep, dispose, encapsulate)
Newborn care
Vitamin K injection preference
Eye drops preference
Breastfeeding vs. formula preference
Circumcision decision (if applicable)
Print 3–5 copies and share with care team

Postpartum Recovery

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Before baby arrives
Stock freezer meals (aim for 2–3 weeks worth)
Set up a recovery station (snacks, water, remote, charger)
Research lactation consultants in your area
Set up baby sleep area (bassinet or crib in your room)
Create a support schedule (who visits when)
Purchase postpartum recovery items (peri bottle, witch hazel pads, etc.)
Physical recovery (weeks 1–6)
Book 6-week postpartum OB/midwife check-up
Pelvic floor physiotherapy referral
Watch for infection signs in incision or perineum
Rest when baby sleeps (truly — chores can wait)
Mental wellness
Learn the signs of postpartum depression and anxiety
Talk to your doctor if you feel persistently low or anxious
Connect with a new mom group (in person or online)
Schedule time for yourself — even 30 minutes/week
Admin 🍁 Canadian
Register for EI parental benefits Must
Apply for Canada Child Benefit (CCB)
Register baby's birth and get SIN
Update health insurance to add baby
Open RESP for baby's education savings

Newborn Essentials

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Sleeping
Bassinet or crib with firm, flat mattress Must
Fitted crib sheets (x3)
Sleep sacks (appropriate tog for season)
White noise machine or app
Baby monitor (audio or video)
Feeding
Nursing pillow (Boppy or similar)
Breast pump (often covered by benefits — check yours!) 🍁
Bottles and nipples (even if breastfeeding)
Burp cloths (x6+)
Nipple cream and breast pads
Formula as backup (optional)
Diapering & bathing
Diapers (newborn + size 1) — don't overstock newborn!
Baby wipes (fragrance-free)
Changing pad and covers
Baby bathtub
Fragrance-free baby wash and shampoo
Soft hooded towels (x2)
Getting around
Infant car seat (installed before due date) Must
Stroller compatible with car seat
Baby carrier or wrap
Diaper bag