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Preparing for the Big Day ahead of time will give you the peace of mind you need to make your delivery experience a comfortable and positive one.
Pre-Register for Delivery
Pre-registering for your hospital stay allows your admission to happen quickly and smoothly. We strongly recommend that you pre-register by your fourth month of pregnancy so that all paperwork is completed well in advance of your delivery. Pre-Register for Admission >>
If you pre-register, then you will only need to confirm your personal information and show your photo ID and insurance card when you arrive at the hospital.
Prepare for Birth and Baby
St. Francis offers a full Parent Education curriculum with classes to help you prepare for baby's arrival. Our "Childbirth Preparation" class is taught by Lamaze-certified instructors who will help you understand labor, what happens during delivery, and breathing techiques. New parents may also find "Caring for Baby" and "Breastfeeding" classes helpful.
Know Where to Go
Make getting to the hospital for the day of delivery a safe and easy experience. We recommend signing up for one of our OB Tour and Orientation classes, to ensure that you are comfortable with knowing where to go when you arrive. Use our maps to get turn-by-turn directions from your house (or the grocery store, or wherever you may be) to the hospital.
Pack Your Bag
Need help deciding what to bring with you to the hospital? Make packing your bag a cinch with our helpful list! Download printable list >>
- Nightgowns (hospital gown is provided)
- Bras for comfort - cotton recommended
- Socks, slippers and/or comfortable shoes
- Clothes to wear home - loose fitting
- Underwear
- Toiletries and cosmetics
- Hairdryer and other styling tools
- Receiving blanket
- Baby's "coming home" outfit
- Baby socks, booties and mittens
- Car seat installed in car (required)
If you’re planning to breastfeed, these items are recommended. All are also available for sale in our Lactation Center:
- Nursing bras
- Breast pads and nursing pads
- Breast pump and other lactation supplies
You may also want to consider bringing these optional items, to enhance your experience and feel more comfortable:
- Relaxing music with CD player or iPod
- Extra pillows
- Books or magazines
- Snacks or coins for vending machines
- Camera and extra film/memory card
- Video recorder and battery
- Laptop (the hospital offers free wireless access)
- List of phone numbers to contact friends and family about mom and baby updates
- Baby scrapbook for footprints and first pictures
- Door decorations for after delivery
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