Logan Reid
When preparing for labour, it's important to consider what to wear to the hospital. While hospitals usually provide gowns, you may want to bring your own clothing to feel more comfortable and at ease. Opt for loose, light, and breathable clothing that will keep you cool and allow freedom of movement. Consider wearing an oversized shirt, a comfortable pair of shorts, or a cosy robe. Avoid delicate fabrics that might be ruined by stains and choose stretchy, soft fabrics instead. Don't forget to pack a hospital bag with essentials like toiletries, comfort items, and entertainment.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Accessibility | Clothing that's easy to open or requires minimal effort to take off |
| Coverage | Full coverage can be useful if you have to walk around for many hours during labour |
| Size | Bring your own clothing to control the sizing |
| Comfort | Wear something comfortable and familiar, such as an oversized shirt, leggings, shorts, or a cosy robe |
| Temperature regulation | Choose breathable fabrics that help regulate your body temperature; wear light, loose, light-coloured clothing to stay cool |
| Ease of removal | Garments with minimal fastenings or wrap dresses are ideal |
| Medical procedures | Ensure your outfit doesn't interfere with medical procedures or equipment |
| Footwear | You can go barefoot, but you may want slippers or slipper socks to keep your feet warm |
| Postpartum | Pack comfortable clothes for after birth, such as PJs or sweats |
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What You'll Learn
Birthing gowns, skirts, and wraps
Birthing gowns are a popular option, as they provide easy access for medical professionals and can be more comfortable than a hospital gown. Some women choose to design their own labour gowns or buy them online, while others opt for a hospital-provided gown. It is important to consider the fit of the gown, as it should not be too small or too large. Additionally, gowns with front or back openings can provide easier access for medical procedures.
Birthing skirts are another option that offers both ease of access and modesty. They are designed to quickly and easily open up when needed while providing adequate coverage when standing, walking, or squatting. It is important to choose a skirt made of stretchy and soft fabric to allow for freedom of movement during childbirth.
Birthing wraps, also known as rebozos or towel wraps, are multipurpose shawls that can be used during labour to take weight off the mother's body when squatting. They can also be used as a belly band before birth and as a baby carrier after birth.
Regardless of the type of clothing chosen, it is important to consider the fabric and fit. The clothing should be made of breathable and stretchy fabric to regulate body temperature and allow for freedom of movement. It should also be easy to remove and wear, with minimal fastenings or wrap styles. Additionally, it is recommended to choose clothing that can be washed, as childbirth can be messy.
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Robes and towels
Robes are a great option for coverage and comfort during labour. They can be worn over a hospital gown, providing a sense of familiarity and helping you feel more comfortable. They are also ideal for covering up, especially as many hospital rooms are busy places with lots of people coming and going. Opt for a cosy robe, made from a soft, stretchy fabric that will keep you cool, dry and comfortable.
If you want to wear a robe to the hospital, consider a lightweight, ankle-length option, made from a fabric such as fleece. This will provide coverage and warmth without being too heavy or restrictive.
Towels are also a good option for coverage and comfort. They can be used as a wrap, taking the weight off you as you hold a squatting position. They can also be useful as a belly band before birth and as a baby carrier after birth.
If you are planning to wear a robe, you may also want to bring slipper socks to keep your feet warm during labour and delivery.
Remember, the most important thing to consider when choosing what to wear during labour is your comfort. It is also a good idea to wear something that you do not care too much about, as things can get messy.
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Comfortable and familiar clothing
When it comes to choosing what to wear to the hospital for the birth of your child, it is important to prioritise your comfort. You should wear something that is familiar, comfortable, and makes you feel at ease. This could be an oversized shirt, a comfortable pair of shorts, or a cosy robe.
If you are planning to wear a dress or skirt, consider something long that will keep you covered when walking around. If you are wearing trousers, opt for something loose-fitting and comfortable, such as sweatpants or jogging bottoms. Avoid anything tight around your stomach, as this can increase pain during contractions and make it harder to find a comfortable labouring position.
You may also want to consider the fabric of your clothing. Choose breathable fabrics that will help regulate your body temperature and keep you cool, dry, and comfortable. Avoid delicate fabrics that might be ruined by stains or wear, and skip anything with metal, such as underwire, as this can put you at risk of burns if you need a C-section.
Don't forget to pack a few changes of clothes in your hospital bag, as you may want to change into something fresh after giving birth, especially with people coming to visit. You may also want to bring a bathrobe to wear during labour and for coverage after delivery, as well as slippers or slipper socks to keep your feet warm.
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Easy access and coverage
When choosing what to wear to the hospital for childbirth, it is important to consider accessibility and coverage. The birthing team needs to easily access your body during labour and delivery, so opt for clothing that is easy to open or requires minimal effort to take off. This includes garments with front and back openings or easy-to-remove ties, such as a hospital gown, which is often provided by the hospital. However, you may prefer to bring your own gown or wear a birthing skirt, which provides both ease of access and modesty.
Another option is to wear a loose-fitting top and elastic pants, which can be easily removed if needed. If you prefer more coverage, consider wearing a robe or wrap over your hospital gown. This can provide extra warmth and privacy as you walk around the hospital. It is also a good idea to bring slippers or slipper socks to keep your feet warm and supported during labour.
It is important to choose breathable and stretchy fabrics that will help regulate your body temperature and allow you to move freely during childbirth. Avoid tight clothing around your stomach, as this can increase pain and make it difficult to find a comfortable position. Instead, opt for oversized shirts or dresses, which can provide plenty of room for your belly while still feeling comfortable.
Additionally, consider packing a few changes of clothes in your hospital bag, as labour can be messy and you may want to change into something fresh after giving birth. Make sure that your clothes are washable and durable, as they may get stained or ruined during the process. Overall, the most important factor when choosing what to wear is your comfort, so choose clothing that makes you feel relaxed and supported during labour and delivery.
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Postpartum clothing
When it comes to choosing what to wear to the hospital for childbirth, comfort and accessibility are key. It's important to choose clothing that is breathable, loose-fitting, and made of stretchy, soft fabric. Here are some recommendations for postpartum clothing:
- Robes and wraps: A bathrobe or birthing wrap can be ideal for covering up over your clothing or the hospital gown. They are easy to take on and off and provide a sense of familiarity and comfort.
- Comfortable clothing: Opt for loose, comfortable clothing such as an oversized shirt or t-shirt, cosy robe, or stretchy maternity leggings or shorts. These can help you stay relaxed and provide support during early labour.
- Nursing bras: Bring 2-3 comfortable and supportive bras, including nursing bras if you plan to breastfeed. Your breasts will be larger than usual, so it's important to have the right support.
- Slippers and socks: Pack slippers that provide warmth and support, as well as slipper socks to keep your feet warm during labour and delivery. Avoid loose-fitting slippers that could cause you to slip or fall.
- Underwear and toiletries: Don't forget to pack comfortable underwear and your essential toiletries, such as a toothbrush, hairbrush, soap, lip balm, deodorant, hair ties, and any other personal care items.
- Layers: Hospitals can be unpredictable in terms of temperature, so consider packing layers that can be easily added or removed. A light cardigan or sweater can be useful if the hospital room is chilly.
Remember, the most important thing is to focus on your comfort and what makes you feel at ease. Choose clothing that allows for easy movement and accessibility for medical checks. You may also want to bring a change of clothes, as labour can be a sweaty and messy process.
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Frequently asked questions
It is recommended to wear something that you feel comfortable in and that allows you to move freely. This could be a loose-fitting dress, an oversized shirt, a bathrobe, a birthing skirt or wrap, or a comfortable pair of shorts. It is also important to consider accessibility for the medical team, so opt for clothing that is easy to open or remove.
It is not necessary to bring your own clothes as hospitals usually provide gowns. However, you may feel more comfortable bringing your own clothing to provide a sense of familiarity.
Aside from clothing, you should pack essential toiletries, such as a toothbrush, toothpaste, lip balm, deodorant, a hairbrush, hair ties, and any other personal care items you may need. You may also want to bring entertainment, such as music or a book, as well as snacks. Don't forget to pack your phone and charger, along with any necessary paperwork, such as your ID, insurance card, and birth plan.
You can go barefoot during labour, but if you prefer to wear something on your feet, bring slippers or slipper socks that will keep your feet warm and provide good support.
