Preparing for Labor & Delivery: Packing Essentials & Location Planning

Question
I am expecting my baby in four weeks and I want to know, What things I should pack before I go into labor? Also I live in a different city than the father of my baby and my parents while I'm in college, What would you suggest about me staying near my school or plan to be in my hometown around my due date?
Important Note:My school is an hour away from my hometown, I live alone, and the due date is one week before my finals.

Answer
Hello Jennifer. Wow- you have some challenges. First, I would suggest that you check out the hospital and local drs. in the town where you go to school, just in case you get caught there in labor and can't get home. Next, if you are lucky, you will be a good week overdue which is VERY normal for a first baby. Plus, you will be under a fair bit of stress, which is not really compatible with the hormones of labor. I really think it would be a good idea if a family member or the father came to stay with you in these last weeks- you need to be taken care of a little. Don't worry about what to pack- take anything that you would take for a weekend away. You really are putting yourself under a LOT of stress. I sure hope you plan to stay home with that baby for a while- unless you are giving it up for adoption- even then you will need time to recover I wish you all the best- Cheri.