We ask that you have the following items available for your birth.

• A small bottle of unopened olive oil (perineal massage, if necessary)
• A vinyl tablecloth with flannel back (to protect your furniture/bed/carpet from birthing stains)
• A crock pot, preferably with a “Keep Warm” setting (for portable warm water for washcloths for perineal soothing during crowning)
• A waterproof sheet that fits your bed (to protect your bed)
• Fresh ginger root (ginger in the crock pot helps bring blood flow to perineal tissues to maximize stretching)
• A flashlight and batteries (for viewing when room is dark or candlelit)
• Large bowl (for placenta)
• Birth Kit (paperwork will be provided at a prenatal visit)
• Healthy food choices for mom postpartum
• Variety of mom’s favorite beverages for labor
• Several pairs of comfortable, cotton underwear for after the birth

• A new, white, lead-free hose (very clean for filling the tub)
• Any connection pieces necessary to connect hose to a hot water supply
• A new fish net (for any “floaties” in the tub)
• Tarp to put under the tub (to protect your floors from any drips)

STERILIZATION:

Between 34 and 36 weeks, please sterilize the following items as directed.  Wash all items, and place in a brown paper bag.  Staple the top closed.  Preheat oven to 250 degrees.  Place a shallow pan of water on bottom shelf.  Bake for 1 hour; make sure the bag does not touch the sides or top of the oven.  Monitor closely.  Allow to cool, and label what is inside in large letters.  

Bag 1:  2 complete sets of sheets that fit your bed

             1 extra pillow case

Bag 2:  4 large towels
           12 wash cloths

Bag 3:  A set of clothes for your baby, including:

• T-shirt or onsie
• Long-sleeved, footed sleeper
• Hat
• Socks
• 3 receiving blankets