How to Pack the PERFECT Hospital Bag for a Natural Birth in Houston, Texas

If you’re planning a med-free birth in the Houston area, I have something you’re going to love! 

I’m talking about packing your hospital bag, but this isn’t an ordinary list.

This is one crafted JUST FOR HOUSTON AREA Moms planning a med-free or natural birth.

I remember when I was packing my bag (insert personal story about how you felt packing your hospital bag and one item that you didn’t expect to need, but did or how you waited until the last minute).

Optional prompt 2: And hey, if you’re looking to shop for some of these essentials, why not check out (add local boutique recommendation)? I’ll share more about that at the end!  They have the coziest, most comforting goodies perfect for your hospital stay.

Ready to get started? Let’s make sure your bag is packed with everything you need to feel empowered during your med-free birth.

First, bring plenty of snacks and your favorite beverages.

There are a few things you'll want to make sure you have on hand to keep your energy up during labor.

Pack snacks that are high in protein and easy to eat on the go, like granola bars or nuts. You'll also want to bring along a water bottle or two, as staying hydrated is key during labor.

Consider bringing liquid IV or something else to replenish electrolytes.

It's always a good idea to have a few changes of clothes with you in case your labor goes longer than expected. After all, you never know what might happen during childbirth!

For natural birth in YOUR CITY, you want to pack items that will keep you comfortable and relaxed

There are a few things you can bring to the hospital to help make your natural birth more comfortable and relaxed.

Consider bringing a loose-fitting nightgown or robe. This will help you stay comfortable during labor, and it will also make it easier for nurses and doctors to check your progress (if you choose).

Bring some washcloths and towels, as well as a small bottle of unscented lotion. These can be used to wipe your face and body during labor, and the lotion can be used to keep your skin from getting too dry.

Also, pack a small case with any essential oils or other relaxation techniques that you want to use during labor. This could include a diffuser and some lavender oil, or a positive affirmations deck. Optional prompt: talk about your favorite items you brought to the the hospital and include links when possible (--EXAMPLE– Sidebar: my favorite essential oil during labor was lavender and my doula used clary sage)

Another game-changer for your birth experience? Bringing a doula!

She won’t fit in your hospital bag, but she might carry it for you!

A doula gives support, both emotional and physical, and can be an incredible advocate for you during labor. They're not only there to help you stay calm and focused but also to use their knowledge to enhance your comfort using techniques like massage and position changes.

Optional Prompt: I’ve connected with so many incredible YOUR CITY doulas – click here to see who I recommend. 

When you come prepared with these items, you can help ensure that your natural birth is as comfortable and relaxing as possible.

If you're planning on breastfeeding, pack a nursing bra and some nursing pads

Here's a list of items you could pack in your hospital bag:

●      A nursing pillow: This will help you to position your baby correctly while breastfeeding.

●      Nursing pads: These absorb leakage and help to keep your clothing dry.

●      Breast milk storage bags: These can be used to store expressed milk for later use.

●      Lanolin cream: This can be used to soothe sore nipples.

●      A water bottle: This will help you to stay hydrated while nursing.

By packing these items in your hospital bag, you'll be prepared to start breastfeeding as soon as your baby is born!

Optional prompt: Share a story or extra time about breastfeeding essentials to bring based on your experience or the experience of your clients or friends.

Next, if you're having a water birth, make sure to pack a top that can get wet or a swimsuit.

Water births can provide a more relaxed birth experience. If you're planning on having a water birth, there are a few things you'll need to bring with you to the hospital.

Consider bringing a swimsuit. You'll also need a large towel to dry off after the birth, and a small towel to place under your head while you're in the tub.

Don't forget to bring your hypnobirthing audio or other calm meditations you might want to listen to during labor!

Water births can be an incredible experience!

Optional prompt to use in this post – 

If you can think of something that would be specific to your local hospital, that would make it even more customized to your location and community. 

For example:  “Pro tip: Mercy hospital doesn’t have tubs to labor in but they do have showers, so make sure you plan to use the warm water in labor as a comfort technique.” 

or 

“Integris Hospital doesn’t have peanut balls, so if you think you might want one in labor you’ll need to bring it yourself.”

Of course, don't forget your birth photographer! (If you’re not a birth photographer, this is a great opportunity to connect with a birth photographer and share their info here. If you’re not comfortable with that you can easily omit this section or change it up to talk about newborn photography)

There's something to be said for hiring a professional birth photographer! Here are just a few benefits of having a birth photographer on hand for your hospital birth:

1. They can capture all the special moments, from the first push to the moment your baby is placed in your arms.

2. They know how to work within the strict confines of a hospital setting, meaning you'll get beautiful photos without disrupting the flow of your labor and delivery.

3. They can help you feel more comfortable and relaxed during labor, knowing that they're taking care of documenting everything.

So, if you're considering hiring a birth photographer for your upcoming hospital birth, rest assured that you'll be in good hands! Click here to see more of my YOUR CITY Birth Photography.

So what do you need to bring to the hospital when you have a natural birth?

Download my free checklist and make sure you have everything you need! 

And don't forget, if you're looking for a YOUR CITY birth photographer, I'd love to chat with you about capturing your beautiful moment.

If you mentioned a boutique at the beginning of this post, link to their website here: Don’t forget to check out NAME Of STORE that offers WHAT THEY OFFER

Click here to see more of my YOUR CITY YOUR GENRE Photography 

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SEO TIPS

Skip these if you don’t know what these words mean! 

1. Use Alt Tags on Your Photos

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   3. Use Your city/state/niche/genre from the headline only

2. Use This Meta Description

Planning a med-free birth in YOUR CITY? In this post I’m sharing essential things to pack in your hospital bag. This is not a generic list, it’s super customized to moms in YOUR CITY planning a med-free birth! Check it out! 

3. Add your keywords directly into the post

Example: I hope reading INSERT BLOG POST TITLE has given you some solid ideas! If you’re still looking for a  YOUR CITY YOUR GENRE Photographer, click here to see my portfolio of GENRE images.

*Tip: Use a different city, suburb or town with each blog post. Instead of “Chicago” you could use different towns, suburbs or neighborhoods nearby to Chicago.