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Accidental Home Birth Supplies: What You Need Right Now
If labor starts before you can reach a hospital, gather clean towels, sheets, a bulb syringe, shoelaces or cord clamps, and a clean container for the placenta. Call 911 and your midwife immediately. For a full checklist, see below.
Essential Supplies for an Accidental Home Birth
If labor is progressing fast and you can't make it to a hospital, focus on what keeps you and baby safe. Here's a step-by-step checklist to gather what you need—even if you have to improvise.
- Call for help – Dial 911 and your midwife or healthcare provider. Tell them you're having an accidental home birth. They can guide you and send emergency responders.
- Clean the area – Lay down clean towels, sheets, or a shower curtain liner on the bed or floor. You want a clean, flat surface for delivery.
- Gather absorbent materials – Have a stack of clean towels, washcloths, and receiving blankets. These will catch the baby and keep them warm.
- Find cord supplies – Use sterile shoelaces, clean ribbon, or cord clamps to tie the umbilical cord. Do not cut the cord unless instructed by a professional.
- Prepare a bulb syringe – If you have one, use it to gently clear baby's mouth and nose. If not, a clean bulb baster can work in a pinch.
- Have a container for the placenta – A clean bowl or plastic container with a lid. The placenta will be delivered after the baby.
Keep these items within reach. If you have time, also grab a phone charger and a warm hat for baby.
What to Use When You Don't Have Birth Supplies
No birth kit? Don't panic. Many household items can stand in for professional supplies. Here's what to grab.
- Towels and sheets – Clean, absorbent towels are your best friend. Use them to catch the baby and keep them warm.
- Shoelaces or ribbon – Sterilize by boiling or soaking in rubbing alcohol. Use to tie the cord.
- Clean scissors or knife – If you must cut the cord, sterilize the blade. But only do this if a professional instructs you.
- Plastic bags or containers – For the placenta. A clean trash bag or plastic bin works.
- Warm blankets – Wrap baby immediately after birth. Skin-to-skin is best, but a blanket helps if it's cold.
Remember, the goal is cleanliness and warmth. You're doing your best with what you have.
Where to Buy a Birth Kit Near Agoura Hills
A good fit if…
- You have time to run out and grab one.
- You want peace of mind with a pre-assembled kit.
- You're in Agoura Hills or nearby Thousand Oaks, Westlake Village, or Calabasas.
Consider another option if…
- Labor is too intense to leave the house.
- You're not sure what to buy—our team can help.
You can find basic birth kits at pharmacies like CVS Agoura Hills or Walgreens Agoura Hills. Target Agoura Hills may also carry some supplies. Amazon Prime Now can deliver quickly if you have time. But if labor is fast, focus on calling 911 and your midwife. We're available at 877-537-3240 for guidance.
Post-Delivery Supplies You'll Need
After baby arrives, you'll need supplies for both of you. Here's a quick checklist.
- For mom: Maxi pads, peri bottle, and ice packs for soreness.
- For baby: Diapers, wipes, and a onesie or blanket.
- For feeding: Nursing bra or pads if you plan to breastfeed.
- For the placenta: A container to store it until a professional can handle it.
If you have questions about postpartum care, our team at The Midwife and More can help. We serve Agoura Hills and surrounding areas.
Directions to our midwife near me from Rancho El Conejo
Start at Rancho El Conejo and head to The Midwife and More at 5115 Clareton Drive, suite #100, Agoura Hills, CA 91301.
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Frequently asked questions
What should I do if I have an accidental home birth?
Stay calm, call 911 and your midwife immediately. Gather clean towels, a bulb syringe, and cord supplies. Keep baby warm and wait for help.
Can I use a regular shoelace to tie the umbilical cord?
Yes, in an emergency, use a clean shoelace or ribbon. Sterilize it if possible. Don't cut the cord unless instructed by a professional.
Where can I get a birth kit in Agoura Hills?
Check CVS, Walgreens, or Target in Agoura Hills. Amazon Prime Now can deliver quickly. But if labor is fast, focus on calling 911 and your midwife.
Also asked as
- What do I need for an unplanned home birth?
- How to prepare for an accidental home birth?
- Emergency home birth supplies list