When it comes to your final few weeks of pregnancy, you will begin to wonder what you’ll need in your hospital bag to get you prepared. Aside from things you’ll be packing for yourself, if you’re big on pre-planning, you’ve probably already been on YouTube and Googled your life away trying to figure out what to pack.
But what about delivering locally at Sint Maarten Medical Center (SMMC)? We’ve got a list of what you’ll need for both you and your baby. The following is just a guideline; you may wish to bring additional personal items to make your stay more comfortable.
For yourself
- Your valid ID (passport, driver’s license or St. Maarten ID card)
- Insurance papers
- Prescribed medication
- Toiletries (comb and brush, toothbrush, toothpaste, body cream and deodorant)
- 4 nightgowns or other sleepwear (preferably button down)
- 4 pieces of underwear (large and comfortable)
- 3 nursing bras or good support bras (1-size larger than normal)
- 2 house coats/dressing gowns
- 1 pair of slippers
- 1 laundry bag
- Breast pads
- 3 towels and 3 washcloths
- 2 pairs of socks
- Sanitary napkins (1 box regular and 1 box overnights)
- 1 box of Kleenex tissue (optional)
- 1 set of going-home clothes (select clothes that were large before your pregnancy)
- Your (reading) glasses (if applicable)
- Your most important phone numbers
- A good book or your phone packed with good music
- Earphones (you’re entertained, but you can annoy other patients)
- Chargers for your electronics
- Video or a regular camera (battery operated) may be used if discussed with the physician or nurse beforehand.
Note: Please leave all other valuables, such as jewellery, behind. If this is not possible, there is safekeeping where these items can be stored.
For your baby
- 1 pack new-born diapers (size 1)
- 4 vests or 4 undershirts
- 4 night gowns or sleepers
- 4 pairs of socks
- 4 receiving blankets
- 4 towels and 4 washcloths
- 4 burping cloths (bibs)
- 4 baby caps
- 1 laundry bag
- Baby brush and comb
- Baby wipes
- Gloves/mittens
- Mosquito net
Note: Please be certain to label your baby’s personal belongings. Do not use powder; it is not good for the baby’s lungs if he or she breathes in those tiny particles. Clothes for your baby should be soft, comfortable, lightweight, loose fitting, and must be easy to put on and remove. Please wash all clothing, blankets and towels before packing. DO NOT put mothballs in the suitcase/bag.
