Key Takeaways
- PAS deliveries typically mean 5–14+ day hospital stays, much longer than a standard C-section
- Pack for an extended stay, including items for comfort, recovery, and emotional well-being
- Separate bags for labor/delivery vs. recovery ward makes logistics easier
- Don't forget items for your partner/support person — they'll be there for days too
Before You Pack: What to Know
PAS Delivery Is NOT a Typical C-Section
A standard cesarean birth usually means a 2–3 day hospital stay. A PAS delivery is a major surgery with unique challenges. Be prepared for a longer journey.
- The hospital stay is often 5–14 days (sometimes longer), depending on your case and recovery
- You may spend time in the ICU (intensive care unit) or a high-acuity recovery unit
- You may receive blood transfusions — significant blood loss is common in PAS deliveries
- Your baby may need NICU time (neonatal intensive care unit), especially if delivered early at 34–36 weeks
- Pack as if you're going on a 2-week trip, but with medical considerations in mind
- Consider packing 2 separate bags: one for the operating room and immediate recovery, and one for the longer hospital stay (your partner can bring the second bag later)
Essential Documents & Medical Items
Photo ID and insurance cards (originals + photos on your phone as backup)
Hospital pre-registration paperwork
Copy of your birth plan / PAS care plan
List of current medications with dosages
List of allergies
Advanced directive / healthcare proxy (important for any major surgery)
Contact information for your MFM (maternal-fetal medicine specialist), OB, and pediatrician
Preauthorization/precertification reference numbers from insurance
Questions for Your Doctor checklist — printed or on your phone
Comfort & Recovery
Loose, comfortable clothing (button-front or zip-up tops for post-surgery + breastfeeding access)
Non-skid socks or slippers (hospital floors are slippery)
Your own pillow and/or blanket (hospital bedding is basic)
Lip balm (hospitals are very dry)
Moisturizer and gentle skincare
Hair ties, headband
Toiletries: toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, body wash, deodorant
Glasses/contacts + supplies (you may not be able to wear contacts for surgery)
Earplugs and sleep mask (hospitals are noisy and bright 24/7)
Long phone/tablet charging cables (outlets may be far from your bed)
Heating pad or warm compress (for post-surgical comfort — ask your nurses before using)
Stool softener (post-surgery and iron supplements cause constipation — hospital may provide, but having your own helps)
Extended Stay Essentials
Plan for the Long Haul
Unlike a typical 2–3 day C-section stay, PAS patients often stay 7–14 days. Pack accordingly — you'll appreciate having fresh clothes and familiar comforts from home.
Multiple changes of comfortable clothes (5–7 outfits minimum)
Underwear — high-waisted, comfortable (mesh hospital underwear is also fine)
Robe for walking the halls during recovery
Entertainment: books, magazines, tablet, laptop, downloaded shows/movies
Journal or notebook (many patients find writing therapeutic during recovery)
Headphones (wireless preferred)
Snacks you enjoy (hospital food gets old quickly over a multi-week stay)
Favorite tea bags, drink mix packets, or electrolyte packets
Small fan (rooms can be warm)
Photos or small comfort items from home
For Baby
NICU Preparation
Your baby may go to the NICU, especially if delivered early (34–36 weeks). Pack the basics but don't overpack — the NICU provides most supplies your baby will need.
Going-home outfit (in newborn AND preemie sizes — PAS babies often come early)
Swaddle blankets (2–3)
Car seat (must be properly installed before discharge)
Diapers and wipes (hospital provides, but having your preferred brand is nice)
If breastfeeding: nursing bras, breast pads, nipple cream, your own pump if you have one
Pacifiers (if you plan to use them)
Baby book or cards for milestone photos
For Your Partner / Support Person
Change of clothes for multiple days
Toiletries
Phone charger (long cable)
Snacks and water bottle
Pillow and blanket (hospital chairs/couches are uncomfortable)
Laptop or tablet for work/entertainment
Cash for hospital cafeteria and vending machines
Comfortable shoes (lots of hallway walking)
List of people to contact after delivery
Camera (or ensure phone storage is cleared for photos and videos)
Emotional & Mental Health
Your Emotional Well-Being Matters
PAS can be emotionally overwhelming. Don't underestimate the importance of items that bring you comfort and calm. Taking care of your mental health is just as important as physical recovery.
Comfort items that remind you of home (photos, a favorite blanket, a stuffed animal)
Music playlist prepared on your phone
Meditation or relaxation app downloaded
Journal for processing your experience
List of supportive friends/family to call
Information about the National Accreta Foundation peer support
Your therapist/counselor's contact information if you have one
What NOT to Pack
- ❌ Valuables, expensive jewelry, or large amounts of cash
- ❌ Scented products (strong fragrances can bother roommates and staff)
- ❌ Too many baby outfits (keep it simple — 2–3 max)
- ❌ High heels or uncomfortable shoes
- ❌ Anything you'd be devastated to lose
Disclaimer
This packing list is for informational purposes only and is based on common experiences shared by PAS patients. Your specific situation may differ. Always follow your care team's instructions regarding what to bring and how to prepare for your delivery.