5 Things Your Labor Gown Should Have

When you’re packing your hospital bag, a labor gown probably isn’t at the top of your list. But if you plan to wear your own gown during labor, there are a few features worth looking for.

1. Easy Chest Access

Once your baby arrives, you may want immediate skin-to-skin contact or plan to breastfeed soon after birth.

A gown with easy chest access can make those first moments simpler without requiring you to completely remove your gown.

2. Monitoring Access

During labor, you may have fetal monitors, IVs, or other equipment that needs to be accessible to your care team.

A gown with thoughtful openings can make it easier to accommodate monitoring while keeping cords from getting in the way.

An opening at the belly can be especially helpful if you are using portable monitoring equipment and want to keep cords from hanging down in front of you.

3. Back Access

If you choose to have an epidural, your care team will need access to your lower back.

A gown with a low or open back can give them the access they need without requiring you to completely change or remove your gown.

4. Enough Coverage

You want your care team to have the access they need, but that doesn't mean you have to feel completely exposed.

Look for a gown that gives you comfortable coverage while still allowing easy access when you need it.

5. Comfort

You could be wearing your gown for hours, from early labor through delivery and into those first hours with your baby.

Soft fabric, a comfortable fit, and a design that allows you to move freely can make a big difference.

And comfort doesn't stop with what you wear. If you're building your hospital bag around making labor a little more comfortable, a Lila TENS Unit can be another option to consider for helping manage pain during labor.

So, What Should You Look For?

The best labor gown is one that balances access and comfort.

You want something that works with your care team, gives you the coverage you want, and makes those first moments with your baby a little easier.

That's exactly why we created the Lila Labor Gown.

It combines easy chest access for breastfeeding and skin-to-skin, a belly opening for monitoring, a low back for epidural access, and comfortable coverage throughout labor and postpartum.