Preparing for Labor and Delivery?

Organizing your life for childbirth and your subsequent stay at the hospital can feel overwhelming. Lovelace Labor of Love is here to make it a little easier. We guide you from finding a provider to prenatal education, all the way to pre-registration for delivery. We are there for you every baby step of the way. We also offer a listening ear and advocacy across the spectrum of your needs. If you need parenting classes, home visiting or counseling for an unexpected event, please call so we can connect you with quality resources from our community, many of which are free.

Labor of Love will follow you through your trimesters with a soft but helping hand. Our calls are meant to remind and encourage. We cannot be with you when you deliver, but we can help you know what to pack so you are ready when your baby decides to arrive. All your basic needs are met during your stay at one of our hospitals, but you may bring a few items for additional comfort or for making memories. Lovelace birthing centers offer free Wi-Fi and cable TV for your convenience. Packing ahead of time will allow more time to prepare yourself mentally for the big and exciting changes coming your way.

A few ideas for mom:

  • Copy of birth plan (sample birth plan in your Pregnancy Guide book)
  • Insurance card and photo ID
  • Robe
  • Warm socks (in case your feet get cold easily)
  • Slippers or flip flops
  • Going home outfit (loose fitting and comfortable)
  • Nursing bra
  • Toiletries such as a toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, hair care, eye care, chap stick and eyeglasses
  • Music for relaxation during labor
  • Something to read or a puzzle book
  • Phone charger
  • If you have a doula, be sure to contact Labor of Love ahead of time with your doula’s certifications, name and phone number for easy entrance into the labor and delivery area.

Suggestions for your partner:

  • Massage oil or lotions for active labor support
  • Snacks
  • Families may order using food delivery services. Provide your name and room number for deliveries made to the front desk.
  • Contact list for friends and family
  • App (or a watch) for contractions or white noise
  • Photo ID
  • Change of clothes
  • Phone, tablet or camera (and chargers!) to take photos and manage video calls with family

Items for baby:

  • Going home outfit (baby t-shirt or a sleeper gown)
  • Socks or booties
  • Receiving blanket and extra layers if weather is cold
  • Rear-facing car seat
  • Diaper bag

After your stay at a Lovelace Birthing Center, please know we are there for you even from home through our Lactation support (505.727.6797) Weekly e-newsletters, and New Parent Group (505.898.3030). You are always welcome to call Labor of Love with any questions. We love being there for you. You may call 505.727.7677, or send an email to laboroflove@lovelace.com.

*Perks subject to change based on birthing center location.

This blog was written by Labor of Love contributors Catherine Roth, CCHW, and Darlene Lundquist, RN