Preparing for labor: To do list

Practice your breathing and relaxation.

Allina Class Registration

For information about or to register for childbirth preparation classes, classes for siblings or hospital birth center tours, go to www.allina.com/classes or call 612-262-3333.

Decide whether you want additional labor support.

Hire a doula if you want professional labor support.

If you've had a Cesarean birth, talk with your health care provider about a vaginal birth after a Cesarean (VBAC).

Create your birth plan.

Make your packing list and pack your labor bag.

Learn the best route(s) to the hospital.

Register for a childbirth preparation class.

Register for a sibling(s) at birth class and/or a new brother or new sister class to help older children feel better prepared for a hospital trip.

Take a tour of your hospital's birth center. Ask if your older children can go on the birth center tour with you.

Related Links

Making a birth plan

Birth plan worksheet

Labor bag and hospital checklist

The labor companion's quick checklist

Choosing between vaginal birth after C-Section or repeat C-Section

First published: 10/04/2002
Last updated: 05/01/2008

Reviewed by: Allina Patient Education experts