The day you’ve been dreaming of is almost here! As intended parents, you’re about to experience one of the most incredible moments of your lives—meeting your baby for the first time.
At Surrogate Parenting Services (SPS), we want to ensure you’re fully prepared for this special day. Here’s a comprehensive guide on what to pack for your hospital stay.
Essential Documents
First and foremost, don’t forget these crucial items:
- IDs: Bring valid identification for both parents, such as your driver’s license or passport.
- Insurance information: Have your insurance cards ready, as your baby will typically be added to your existing plan.
- Certified copies of judgment: Bring your parentage documents to establish your legal rights as parents.
Clothes, Toiletries, and Electronics
Remember, you’ll likely be staying overnight, so be sure to pack:
- A change of clothes: Bring comfortable outfits for your hospital stay and your journey home.
- Toiletries: Don’t forget essentials like toothbrushes, toothpaste, deodorant, and any personal care items you use daily.
- Chargers: Keep your devices powered up to share your exciting news with loved ones. Consider bringing a long charger cable or power bank, as outlets are not always readily available.
- Comfort items: A light jacket, your own pillow and blanket, and even an eye mask and earplugs can help make your hospital stay more comfortable.
- Medications: If you take any regular medications, be sure to bring those along.
Bonding with Your Baby
To make the most of those precious first moments with your newborn:
- Easy-to-open shirt or robe: Pack clothing that allows for quick skin-to-skin contact, which is crucial for bonding and can help regulate your baby’s temperature and breathing.
For Your Baby’s Safety and Comfort
Ensure you have these items ready for your little one:
- Car seat: Have a properly installed rear-facing car seat ready. Many local fire stations offer free car seat safety checks if you’re unsure about the installation.
- Baby clothes: Bring a few outfit options, including onesies, sleepers, and hats. While the hospital typically provides some essentials, having your own can be comforting.
- Going home outfit: Consider the weather conditions when choosing an outfit for your baby’s journey home.
Additional Tips
- Snacks: Hospital stays can be long, so pack some energy-boosting snacks like nuts, granola, or dried fruits.
- Entertainment: Bring books or a tablet to help pass the time during any waiting periods.
- Notebook and pen: You may want to jot down questions for the medical staff or record your thoughts and feelings during this incredible experience.
At SPS, we understand that this moment is the culmination of your surrogacy journey, and we want to ensure you’re fully prepared.
Remember, our team is here to support you every step of the way. We’ve helped bring over 970 happy, healthy babies into the world, and we’re honored to be part of your journey!
Learn More About Becoming a Surrogate with Surrogate Parenting Services
Surrogate Parenting Services is proud to celebrate over 30 years of helping to bring dreams to life! Founded in 1990, Surrogate Parenting Services (SPS) is a full-service surrogacy agency that offers both parties an exceptionally supportive environment throughout the surrogacy relationship. We’re passionate about creating ideal matches between surrogates and intended parents, so the journey is fulfilling for both sides and the future child is brought into this world in the best possible circumstances.
Do you want to become a surrogate? Learn more about our Surrogacy Program online or by calling (949) 363-9525.
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