A maternity gown, also known as a labor gown is a loose, shapeless attire that covers you from top to knees or feet. Pregnant women wear these during and after pregnancy because they are light, breezy, and comfortable. Wearing pants is close to impossible towards the end of pregnancy and most women are not comfortable wearing them. These delivery gowns provide comfort and freedom of movement.
The labor and delivery gown you want to wear during the birth is an essential item that may be forgotten while you pack for the hospital. Although a labor and delivery gown will be provided by your chosen birthing center, hospital, or medical institution, you may find it more comfortable to bring your own. It is important to think about how you will feel in the gown and how it will function throughout labor and delivery before making your final decision.
In This Article
- Can You Wear Your Own Gown During Labor?
- Types Of Labor And Delivery Gowns
- How To Choose The Right Labor And Delivery Gown For You?
- 4 Best Brands Of Delivery Gowns In India
Can You Wear Your Own Gown During Labor?
Yes, you can. Most hospitals allow you to wear anything of your choice as long as it doesn’t obstruct the delivery process. Some hospitals have uniforms and will ask you to change them before you go in for the delivery, but most of them will let you be.
The comfort of the mother is of utmost importance in the delivery room. Hospital gowns may not be comfortable for many women. They might want to be in their own clothes in one of the most vulnerable moments of their lives – giving birth.
So, yes, you can wear your own gown during labor. However, you may not be able to use it again after delivery, due to all the stains. You may have to just discard it.
Types Of Labor And Delivery Gowns
When it is time to pack that hospital bag, just days before the due date, you need to consider what clothes to pack for yourself too. Delivery gowns are very important. Today, you have a wide range of options to choose from.
Your options are
- Slip-on gowns with a small opening near the neck. This can resemble nightwear and is loose-fitting, big, and roomy. Many women prefer this flowy garment that just covers them fully.
- Robes that you can tie around. These can be used at any stage of the pregnancy or even after pregnancy as you need to just tie it. There is no “size” restriction.
- Gowns with openings for breastfeeding. These are loose-fitting gowns with zips or Velcro enclosures around the breast area. It helps you breastfeed without having to remove any clothing.
- The dress-style
- Gowns come in attractive prints and flattering designs. You can slip them on and even step out without worry. They look stylish and like a dress
How To Choose The Right Labor And Delivery Gown For You?
There are many options for you to choose from today. While some may look traditional, many look stylish and attractive. Choosing the right delivery gown is very important. It is the attire you are going to welcome your miracle in. You will need to care for and even feed your newborn in that delivery gown. Here are a few tips to choose the right labor gown for you:
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Material
The material of the maternity gown is very important. You are going to wear this during and after the delivery. The baby will be resting on this. It needs to be soft and not scratchy. Check the material and ensure it is not rough or scratchy. If possible wash it once before you pack it or wear it to the hospital.
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Openings
Maternity gowns come with openings in strategic places. They should allow enough access to the medical professionals who will help you with the delivery process. After the birth, you must be able to breastfeed the newborn. Opt for a gown that has a sufficient number of openings in the right places.
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Functionality
Does the gown give access to others? The medical professionals and nurses must be able to access you easily. If your clothing is going to come in the way, during delivery, not many doctors will be patient. They will ask you to change into the hospital gown or simply cut it off where required. Choose a gown that will facilitate and not hinder your new mom’s duties.
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Place Of Use
Where you choose to use the maternity gown, places an important role. If you plan on using it during pregnancy, it needs to be soft and flowy to accommodate the growing belly. When you plan on using it for your delivery, it should be functional and have easy openings (like a robe). If you plan on using it after delivery, it should facilitate breastfeeding.
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Color
Many mothers-to-be get their baby’s nursery ready in a gender-suitable color while many opt for gender-neutral colors. Do you have any specific color in mind for that first picture holding the baby? If not, then you can opt for dark colors, so that the stains can be camouflaged.
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Length
You can decide on a half-length or a full-length gown based on your convenience. Do you want good ventilation or do you want to be covered fully to avoid any accidental exposures when you are in labor and not in a position to check on your outfit?
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Sleeves
You have delivery gowns that are sleeveless, and those with varying sleeve lengths. This is completely a personal preference. Choose a sleeve length that you will be comfortable in. You don’t want to be conscious or adjust your sleeves while in labor.
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Multipurpose
If you are not keen on spending on different maternity gowns for different uses, you can opt for multipurpose gowns. Quite a few maternity brands have gowns that can be used before, during, and after delivery. You can get good value for your money and also not worry about the space these maternity gowns will take in your cupboard.
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Cost
The cost of your delivery gown matters. When you go for exclusive brands, it can be quite expensive. Check the rates and match them to your budget. Buying just one will not suffice. You will need quite a few as you may not have the time to wash them every day.
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Closure
These gowns come like overalls that you need to just slip on over your heads, with zips, buttons or just ties. Choose the one that is most comfortable for you and won’t take much of your time.
4 Best Brands Of Delivery Gowns In India
The ideal hospital gown for giving birth is one that is soft, comfortable, and breathable. They’re a good buy over the standard hospital uniform. Find out some best brands of delivery gowns available in the Indian market.
1. Frida Baby Gown
The fabric used to design Frida’s labor and delivery robe is a very soft and stretchy jersey. From the beginning of labor to the first pictures, you’ll feel more confident in this dress that allows for easy breastfeeding and skin-to-skin access in the front, and complete covering in the back.
2. Fabme
The Fabme delivery gown is an essential item for each expecting mother’s closet. This nightgown serves several purposes, from everyday wear to labor, breastfeeding, and maternity wear.
3. Mamma’s maternity
Each Mamma’s maternity gown is carefully inspected to guarantee high standards and long life. The dresses are beautiful and reasonably priced.
4. Mom-To-Be
MomToBe maternity dresses are made to look good at any point in your pregnancy and to be worn regularly after the baby is born. The Rayon fabric used to stitch these gowns are safe and comfy for pregnant women. It’s the ideal dress to wear throughout pregnancy.
