Welcome to Downey Regional Medical Center. We are delighted you have chosen our Medical Center as the place where you will bring your baby into the world. Because baby's have a way of surprising us as to when they will make their grand entrance into the world, we recommend that your pack your bags to go to the hospital during your eight month of pregnancy.To make it easier for yourself, you might consider packing two separate bags, one to bring along with you while you are in labor and the other to bring after your baby is born (you can leave this second bag in the car when you first arrive to the hospital). The following are recommendations for items that you should pack in your bags:
Labor Bag:
- Tooth brush and tooth paste for Mom and her Coach
- Socks
- Hairbrush and ponytail holder
- Chapstick (your lips may get dry while breathing during labor)
- Massage ball (in case Mom has back labor and requires counter pressure/massage during labor)
- Camera and film (don't forget batteries if needed)
- Phone numbers of people you wish to contact after your baby is born
- Snacks for Coach
After Your Baby is Born Bag:
- Personal grooming items. Due to hospital safety regulations, patients are not allowed to use electrical appliances from home at the hospital. Please leave your hairdryer, curling iron, etc at home.
- One or two well fitting, good support bras (whether or not you are breastfeeding).
- Robe and slippers. You may wish to bring your own gown.
- Comfortable clothes to wear home. Depending on the weather, you might need a sweater or coat
- Outfit for baby to go home in along with a blanket. If you'd like baby's first photos taken in a special outfit, please tell your nurse. We'll make every effort to have photos taken in this outfit.
- Carseat for baby. Be sure you know how to properly and safely use your carseat. California law requires babies to be transported in an approved carseat. You must have a carseat for your baby when he/she is discharged. Please be sure you know how to properly install and use your carseat. DCH nurses are not able to assist you with the use of your carseat.
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If you have any questions about any of the above information, please feel free to contact us.
11500 Brookshire Avenue · Downey · California · 90240
Main Hospital (562) 904 - 5000
Family Birth Center (562) 622 - 5200
Education Department (562) 622 - 2088
Main Hospital (562) 904 - 5000
Family Birth Center (562) 622 - 5200
Education Department (562) 622 - 2088
