Leaving Hospital: What Every New Parent Needs to Know

Getting the day you’ve been waiting for – the moment you finally leave the hospital – can feel both exciting and scary. You’ve just spent weeks with doctors, nurses, and a tiny human who’s still learning how to eat, sleep, and breathe. The good news? With a short checklist and a few smart moves, you can turn that nervous energy into confidence.

Packing the Right Things

Before the staff hands you the discharge paperwork, double‑check your bag. A well‑stocked hospital bag isn’t just for labour; it should include a few extra items for the first 24‑48 hours at home. Pack a couple of newborn onesies, a soft blanket, a few spare diapers, and a tiny pair of socks. Don’t forget a gentle baby wash, a soft washcloth, and a baby-safe nail clipper – the little things save you a trip to the pharmacy later.

If you plan to breastfeed, bring a clean nursing bra and a couple of breast pads. Many mums wonder whether to pack a breast pump, and the answer is simple: only if you’ve been told you’ll need it or if you want to build a stash before you get home. A manual pump is lighter and easier to travel with than an electric model, and it won’t surprise you with a loud motor in the quiet of night.

First Days at Home

Once you step out, the real work begins. Your baby’s first feed at home may feel different from the hospital’s scheduled sessions. Trust your instincts – if the baby seems hungry, offer the breast or bottle. Keep a feeding log on your phone; it helps you spot patterns and reassures you that the baby is getting enough milk.

Sleep safety is another top priority. Place the baby on a firm mattress, no loose blankets, and keep the sleep area free of toys and pillows. If you’re using a bassinet, make sure it meets UK safety standards and that the mattress fits snugly. Many new parents ask whether a swaddle is necessary – a light, breathable swaddle can help calm a newborn, but always leave enough room for the hips to move.

Transporting your baby safely is non‑negotiable. The moment you’re ready to leave the hospital, you’ll need a rear‑facing car seat that’s approved for newborns. Install it yourself beforehand and double‑check the angle – a correctly installed seat should sit at a 45‑degree recline for the first few weeks.

Watch for any signs that need a doctor’s call: a fever over 38°C, persistent vomiting, difficulty breathing, or a change in diaper output. Most hospitals give you a 24‑hour hotline for urgent questions – keep that number handy.

Schedule your first post‑natal check‑up within a week of coming home. The doctor will check the baby’s weight, feeding progress, and overall health, plus give you a chance to ask any lingering questions about jaundice, sleeping patterns, or vaccination timing.

Don’t forget about you. Leaving the hospital can be emotionally draining, and hormone shifts may bring mood swings. Share responsibilities with a partner or a trusted family member, and make time for short breaks – even a five‑minute cup of tea can reset your mood.

Finally, keep a writable list on the fridge. Jot down anything that worries you, anything you need to buy, and any appointments you have. Crossing items off that list will give you a sense of control and remind you that you’re doing a great job.