what would you put in an emergency birth kit?

[eggsandpancakes]

I've got a couple of medium long car trips that I absolutely have to make between now and my "due date", and most of the drive is in rural areas. What would you put in a roadside crash kit just in case baby decides NOW is the perfect time to make an appearance? I was thinking towels, baby wipes, a change of clothes, a shoelace. . . what else needs to go in there?

[JamieCatheryn]

Are you having a homebirth? I saw a post about a midwife home visit from you I think. Throw some of the underpads from the birth kit in the car, gloves or hand sanitizer for anyone who would help catch. I'd want 2 ties or clamps for the cord in case it were needed in special circumstance, and sterile scissors or scalpel in case the cord did need to get cut (like if it were short and/or placenta took a while). Though I think if all went normally I'd wrap the placenta up and leave it attached til things settled down and we got somewhere. Hat, diaper, clothes, and blankets for baby. Blanket for you (don't want shock and getting dressed again might take a bit). Postpartum pads for you. Water and snacks, good to have in case of any road emergency but if you gave birth you'd really need something to recharge with.

[eggsandpancakes]

yes, I'm planning a homebirth. that's a really good point about some chux and the snacks. thanks!

[eminencejae]

i think it all depends on what you would consider Emergent, and or vital to your comfort. Anything you feel you would need at home that you can put in the car is a good start.