Things to Have Before You Come to the Hospital for Delivery

The best defense against new parent stress is preparation and planning. These reminders will assist you in having a stress free hospital stay.

Here are 10 things we would like our new moms (and families) to have in place before coming to the hospital.

1. Pediatrician
   Please bring the name and address of the Pediatrician who will care for your baby once you are discharged from the hospital. Learn more about Choosing an Obstetrician

2. Pre-Registration
   Please preregister to deliver at Greenwich Hospital by your 6th month of pregnancy. You may call 203-863-3323 or come to the GH Admission department located on the first floor. Learn more about Pre-registration and Admission

3. Infant car seat
   Please install and have a working knowledge of your car seat before you come to the hospital for delivery of your baby. Schedule a free car seat check and installation with one of our certified technician and learn how to properly secure your child in their car seat as well as how to install the car seat correctly in the vehicle. Appointments are offered at Yale New Haven Children's Hospital in New Haven, Bridgeport Hospital, Greenwich Hospital and Lawrence + Memorial Hospital. To make an appointment at any of these locations, call 203-200-KIDS or email [email protected].

4. Childcare for siblings
   Please have a plan in place for care of your older children when you go to the hospital to have your baby.

5. Vaccinations
   Please have a clear understanding of the recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control, American Academy of Pediatrics and American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists for vaccines for you, your newborn and family members.

   • Tdap Vaccination for adults
   • Hepatitis B Vaccination for newborns 
     

6. Cord Blood Kit
   If you are making arrangements to preserve cord blood you must bring an approved cord blood banking kit to the hospital when you arrive for delivery. The list of approved cord blood banking companies may be obtained from your physician.

7. Pre- and Post-natal Programs
   It’s never too early to consider one of our Tender Beginnings classes or services, including prenatal tours, childbirth preparation or yoga classes. Tender Beginning classes are recommended to begin at 6 months of pregnancy. Early registration is encouraged to have the best selection of classes available to you and your partner. Learn more about Tender Beginnings

8. Clothes for Mom & Baby
   Pack comfortable clothes for the patient and baby to wear home. Consider weather conditions. Get more details on what you should bring

9. Visiting Hours
   Rest is an important part of healing. New mothers and babies need their rest. Share the suggested visiting hours schedule with your friends and colleagues before you come to deliver. See our visiting hours