If you’re planning a birth in Minot, ND, I have something you’re going to love!

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

This one is crafted JUST FOR MINOT MOMMAS planning an epidural birth.

I remember when I was packing my bag when I had my daughter. Although I didn’t have my daughter in North Dakota, but in Georgia, I remember packing allllll the items that I thought I had a need for, but I truly didn’t. I’m definitely an over packer, so I wished I would have narrowed it down, especially since I slept most of the time after giving birth.

Ready to get started? Let’s make sure your bag is packed with only the essentials, so you don’t feel overwhelmed before going to give birth.

First, bring plenty of snacks and drinks

There are a few things you’ll want to make sure you have on hand to keep your energy up after labor, since most doctors recommend you NOT eat during labor. Although when I asked my nurse, I was told they won’t know if they don’t see it if you do eat, or drink, during labor. I did get wet sponges and ice chips at the time.

You’ll want to pack snacks that are high in protein and easy to eat on the go, such as granola bars. I also recommend candy you can suck on, such as suckers or hard candies. If you do plan on having something to drink during labor, I recommend a water bottle and a drink flavoring with electrolytes. It’s important to keep your energy up and stay hydrated.

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

For any kind of birth, in Minot, or otherwise, 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 birth more comfortable and relaxed.

Consider bringing a labor and delivery gown for during the birth. I actually bought this gown from Amazon, and it was wonderful to have! I was able to labor in it, breastfeed, and use the bathroom when I needed without anything getting in the way. And if I needed to, I was able to take it off. It also had buttons on the straps so IV’s were not in the way. It also made it easy for nurses and doctors to check my progress during labor. And I didn’t have to worry about my bottom hanging out from one of the hospital gowns!

Don’t forget to bring some loose-fitting night pants or sweatpants for when you leave the hospital. It will make the hospital stay and ride home so much more comfortable.

Make sure you have someone who can advocate for you!

Although I didn’t need one, a doula is a great person to have if you don’t have anyone in your support system who can go with you.

I know, I know, she won’t fit in your bag, but she might just carry it, if you ask nicely!

What is a doula? A doula is someone who gives support, both emotional and physical. They are also there to advocate for you during labor when you may not be able to. They not only help you stay calm and focused, but they use their knowledge to enhance your comfort with techniques such as massages and position changes.

Although I never had a doula, I’m constantly seeing these people as recommendations in Minot:

-Sherrica Blackmon of An Intimate Beginning

–Rosaura Conklin of Rooted and Risen Birth Services

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

Here’s a small list of items I recommend packing in your hospital bags:

-A nursing pillow: This will help position your baby correctly while you learn to breastfeed if it’s your first.

-Nursing pads: These absorb leakage and help to keep your clothing dry. Make sure to have a nursing bra to go with them. I wish I did!

A few other items you could pack would include breast milk storage bags, Lanolin cream (which some hospitals do provide it), and a water bottle (although the hospital should provide you with enough!).

By packing these items in your hospital bag, you’ll be prepared to start breastfeeding as soon as your baby is born. Trinity Hospital does offer breastfeeding basic classes, so you are prepared when your baby first arrives. You can see a full list of classes HERE.

Of course, don’t forget your birth and/or newborn photographer.

There’s something to be said for hiring a newborn photographer! Here’s just a few benefits of having a newborn photographer for after you come home:

-They can offer a stress-free experience. Having a professional handle the photo session allows parents to relax without having to worry about the perfect shots, getting all the props, backdrops, or lighting, and manage the entire process from setup to editing.

-Experienced newborn photographers know how to handle and pose babies safely. This helps ensure that your little one is comfortable and secure throughout the session while also getting high-quality and beautiful images that phones can’t achieve.

-These photographs become cherished heirlooms that capture the beauty of your newborn and can be tailored to your preferences, incorporating personal elements such as props from home to make them even more unique to your family.

So, if you’re considering hiring a newborn photographer for your newborn, rest assured you’ll be in good hands! Click HERE to see more of my Minot Newborn Photography.

So, what do you need to bring to the hospital for when you go into labor?

DOWNLOAD MY FREE CHECKLIST and make sure you have the essentials you need!

And don’t forget, if you’re looking for a Minot newborn photographer, I’d love to chat with you about capturing your beautiful newborn.

Don’t forget to check out An Intimate Beginning or Rooted and Risen Birth Services for doula services.

Click here to see more of my Minot newborn photography