Hurricane Prep for Expecting and Postpartum Families

Some of us are more anxious than others. Add fluctuating hormones and a looming storm and you can experience heightened emotional responses to anything. Preparation is a powerful antidote to soothe anxiety. When you're expecting or postpartum, your preparation is more nuanced. Having a plan and adequate supplies before an imminent hurricane will calm your nerves and keep you calm through the storm. The most important thing to highlight is - know who to call and how to call them should the power, internet, wi-fi go down, and how to get where you need to go.

Now... here's the supplies list. (minimize this list, where possible, if you're evacuating)

Essentials for Pregnant + Postpartum Moms (and their families)

1. Important Documents: (in a waterproof container)

• Any printed prenatal records
• Your printed birth plan
• Your insurance card + identification (drivers license)
• Emergency contacts + their phone numbers/address

2. Medications and Healthcare Supplies:

• Prescription medications (refill if you don't have at least a week on hand)
• Prenatal vitamins
• Blood pressure monitor (if needed)
• Extra sanitary supplies (pads, postpartum underwear, peri bottle)

3. Pregnancy/Infant Comfort and Support:

• Maternity pillow or other comfortable support for rest
• Breastfeeding essentials (nursing pads, nipple balm, manual pump, bottles, storage bags, etc.)
• Cooler with ice/ice packs

4. Emergency Hospital Bag:

• Pre-packed hospital birth bag in case of sudden labor or emergency evacuation
• Change of clothes for mom and baby (think in layers)
• Toiletries and comfort items (toothbrush, deodorant, hair ties, lip balm)
• Phone charger or portable battery pack
• Get the full packing list here!

5. Food and Water Supplies:

• Shelf-stable snacks (granola bars, crackers, dried fruit, soup, fruit-veggie blend pouches) 
• Formula, bottles, and purified water for bottle-fed babies
• Access to any stored pumped milk
• Electrolyte drinks (Gatorade or coconut water) for mom to stay hydrated
• 1 gallon of water per person, per day for at least (3) days

6. Baby Essentials:

• Diapers
• Wipes and diaper cream
• Baby blankets, burp cloths
• Portable diaper changing pad
• Babywearing carrier

7. Health and Hygiene Supplies:

• First-aid kit + thermometer
• Hand sanitizer and wet wipes
• Disinfectant wipes for cleaning surfaces
• Disposable gloves (if no clean water/soap/sanitizer)
• Body wash, shampoo, and hygiene items for both mom and baby

8. Power and Lighting:

• Flashlights, headlamps or battery-operated lanterns
• Batteries (back-up supply)
• Battery-powered or solar charger for phones and small devices
• Home generator (if you're able)

9. Comfort and Entertainment:

• Books, magazines, or a tablet for entertainment (distraction for labor or recovery)
• Baby toys and soothing items (pacifiers, soft toys)
• Download relaxing music or guided meditations

10. Evacuation Plans and Resources:

• Know where the nearest shelter is and whether they accept pregnant or postpartum moms and babies
• Have a plan for contacting your OB-GYN, midwife or doula in case of labor during the storm
• Make sure your car has a full gas tank and infant car seat installed correctly
• Backup plan for pets if they are not allowed in emergency shelters

You may already have these items, but you should check the status of them (expiration dates, quantity on hand, etc.) Remember, the storm will pass, and because you're prepared, you'll come out on the other side with the rainbow.