72 hour kits and Pregnancy

So you thought that your kit wouldn't need any changes just because your expecting - wrong! There are a lot more things to add and consider when preparing for birth and a disaster. It is definately not the time to be complacent in your preparations.  Overall your kit just needs some updates and additions to be "ready" to go.

—       You’re going to need a list of approved medications and prenatal vitamins. This list is just as important since there are a lot of over the counter medications and pain killers that are off limits and it’s important to know what those are.

—       Pack for morning sickness - add foods that will settle your stomach (mint, ginger, soda crackers, and mint gum).

—       Remember smells and food sensitizes that make you nauseas and remove them from all kits.

—       Don’t forget to pack for cravings! If possible – look for alternatives (watermelon flavored gum for the watermelon).

—       Maternity clothes are important too, I would recommend packing a size too big, so it should last throughout the entire pregnancy, along with any swelling that could be caused by traveling.

—       Include a copy of your medical records and all medical contact information

—       Foods needs to be high in calcium and protein. It’s important to include fruits and veggies as well so look into freeze dried foods. Remember to pack for a high calorie, nutrient dense diet.

—       Be prepared for delivery – stress can do a number on the body and can cause early delivery. Besides my midwife always warned me that storms and full moons meant an increase in deliveries. Besides it may be a while before emergency personal can reach you or due to triage you could get delayed for help.

·        Nursing bra and nursing pads, along with feminine supplies

·        Emergency birthing kit – list and instructions in the link below – add this to your stash at the beginning of the third trimester. I recommend having 2; one for your home and one for your car (its far more likely that you will deliver there than in a disaster)

http://www.midwife.org/siteFiles/education/giving_birth_in_place.pdf- a complete guide to emergency child birth including an emergency birthing kit. I would think about adding an extra shower curtain and a paper tape measure.

·        If you have friends or family that are all expecting at different times – consider working together to put an emergency birthing kit together and pass it between each other at the 3^rd trimesters.

An infant kit should be added at the beginning of the third trimester.