Preparation
What Should You Pack for the Hospital?
It’s a good idea to have your hospital bags packed and ready by the 36th week of pregnancy, as labor can begin at any time once you enter your ninth month.
1. Medical Documents
Keep all of your important documents together in a clear plastic folder and somewhere easy to reach.
- 1
Personal Documents
A valid ID card and a verified health insurance card.
- 2
Hospital Referral
Your referral for the maternity hospital, issued by your gynecologist at your local health center.
- 3
Blood Type
The original laboratory report confirming your blood type and Rh factor.
- 4
Pregnancy Medical Records
Your complete pregnancy records, including your latest blood count, urine test and ultrasound reports, results of vaginal and cervical swabs, as well as your hepatitis B test result.
- 5
Additional Documents, if Needed
A coproculture result, if required by the hospital, and cardiologist or anesthesiologist reports if you are planning a C-section or epidural.
2. Your Labor Bag
This is the smaller bag you’ll take with you when you are admitted.
- 1
Waterproof Slippers
Rubber or other waterproof slippers are essential for showering.
- 2
Something Soft and Comfortable To Wear
Pack one nightgown that opens easily at the front—although some maternity hospitals provide their own—and a pair of socks in case you get cold.
- 3
A Little Refreshment
Bring a small bottle of still water and some lip balm, as your lips can become dry while breathing through labor.
3. Your Bag for the Maternity Ward
This is the bag that can be brought to your room after your baby is born.
- 1
Postpartum Hygiene
Bring 3–4 packs of sterile mesh maternity pads and 5–6 pairs of disposable mesh underwear.
- 2
Bed Protection
Pack 5 large disposable bed pads, approximately 60 × 90 cm.
- 3
Clothing
Bring 2–3 nightgowns with front buttons to make breastfeeding easier, a lightweight robe and comfortable wire-free cotton nursing bras.
- 4
Personal Care
Pack a toothbrush and toothpaste, travel-size shampoo and body wash, hand soap and a gentle deodorant, if you use one.
- 5
Towels & Wipes
Bring one large shower towel, one smaller face towel, a roll of paper towels and a pack of wet wipes for personal hygiene.
- 6
Breast Care
Pack a pure lanolin nipple cream—it does not need to be washed off before breastfeeding—and a few nursing pads.
- 7
Food & Drinks
Bring a pack of Plazma biscuits or energy bars. You may find yourself hungry in the middle of the night when the hospital kitchen is closed.
4. What to Pack for Your Baby
Most public maternity hospitals in Serbia provide clothing and blankets for babies during their hospital stay, so you usually do not need to pack baby clothes in this bag. Just a few basic care items may be useful, although the hospital will often provide these as well.
- 1
Diapers
At least one pack of newborn disposable diapers, size 1.
- 2
Baby Care
A small tube of diaper rash cream.
- 3
Wipes & Cloths
Unscented baby wipes made with 99% water, plus 2–3 cotton muslin cloths.
There’s no need to bring everything for going home with you when you arrive for labor. Prepare a separate bag at home with your baby’s going-home outfit, a baby carrier/car seat, and clothes for yourself. Someone can bring it to you on the day you and your baby are discharged from the hospital.
A Little Tip from Experienced Moms
A phone charger with a long cable—around 2 meters—can be a lifesaver, since hospital outlets are often high on the wall or far from the bed. A hair tie can make breastfeeding more comfortable for both you and your baby. And if you wear contact lenses, don’t forget your lens-care supplies. It’s also best to leave jewelry and other valuables safely at home.
And one more thing… Leave your fears at home, too. Bring faith and hope with you that everything will be all right. And don’t forget your smile. It will make your hospital stay a little brighter, and it will be there for some of the very first moments with your baby—including that unforgettable photograph of the day you finally go home together.
Need help or advice?
Call us at +381 63 16 844 80 or send us a message — we are with you every step of the way.