A while ago I began gathering supplies for my doula bag, and I thought it would be nice to share its contents for other new doulas. A few of these might even be nice for dads to bring along in the birth bag to help keep mom comfy.
So, here is the break down:
A few things I include for myself
- lip balm (it is nice to bring an additional sealed one for mom)
- deodorant
- a business card or two to give to the midwife or OB if we are meeting for the first time
For mom it is nice to have
- mints
- travel size mouthwash to freshen up if she is nauseated (I always bring a few extra for myself and dad in case of a long birth)
- bendy straws help to keep mom drink in various laboring positions
- energy bars are a great, compact snack for mom (if she is allowed to eat) and it helps doula and dad keep their energy up without leaving mom alone
- (not pictured) honey straws are a quick energy boost for when mom is getting tired
- Dr. Bronner's Magic Castille Soap in lavender and peppermint are great for drawing up a bath and for scenting cool compress towels for mom's forehead during harder parts of labor. Lavender is really calming and peppermint is great to bring energy.
- Weleda body oils are awesome for massage. I especially love the Arnica one since it is helpful to soothe mama's working muscles.
- Jojoba oil is a lovely for massage and is unscented incase mom is sensitive to scents.
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- combs are helpful for mom to squeeze with the teeth facing her palms during difficult contractions.
- rebozo is great tool for relaxing during labor. I always refer to www.spinningbabies.com.
- hot pack or rice sacks are perfect for using heat therapy during labor.
- (not pictured) hand held fan to keep mom refreshed and cool.
extra references/guides
- birth plan which I usually keep on my phone, but it is handy to have a hard copy
- birth partner comfort guide which I like to print out in case dad forgets his copy
- Ina May's Guide to Childbirth
- Spinning Babies readily on hand through my phone
- contraction timer app really helpful rather than writing everything down since you only have to press the start/stop button so you can focus more on the laboring mother-to-be.
My doula bag contents all in one place! I keep all the snack type things in a gallon sized plastic bag and the massage oils and soaps in another so that they don't leak and cause a huge mess! It is also nice to bring a peanut ball and birth/exercise ball if the hospital doesn't provide them.
All packed and ready!
