Medically reviewed by Dr. Nita Landry, OB/GYN
Most expectant parents imagine a calm, planned birth experience—complete with a hospital bag, a supportive birth team, and carefully chosen preferences.
But the reality?
Labor doesn’t always go according to plan.
In rare cases, babies arrive quickly—before you can get to the hospital. That’s why having an emergency birth kit in your car or home can make all the difference.
👉 If you haven’t already, start with our complete hospital bag checklist so you’re prepared for both expected and unexpected scenarios.
What Is an Emergency Birth Kit?
An emergency birth kit is a small set of essential supplies designed to help you manage a surprise home or car birth until medical professionals arrive.
While these situations are uncommon, being prepared can:
- Reduce stress
- Help you act quickly
- Support a safer delivery
👉 Not sure when labor is getting close? Read our guide on early signs of labor and when to go to the hospital.
First Things First: What to Do If Baby Is Coming Early
If you think your baby may arrive before you reach the hospital:
1. Call 911 Immediately
Emergency responders can guide you step-by-step while help is on the way.
2. Follow Instructions Carefully
Stay on the phone if possible—trained professionals will walk you through what to do.
3. Stay Calm and Focused
Your body knows what to do. Staying calm helps both you and your baby.
Emergency Birth Kit Checklist (What to Pack in Your Car)
Keep these items in a clean, easy-to-grab bag:
Essential Supplies
- Large underpads (with waterproof backing)
- Disposable gloves (latex or non-latex)
- Clean towels and blankets (for drying and warmth)
- Baby bulb syringe (to clear airway if needed)
- Two clean shoelaces (to tie the umbilical cord)
- Sharp, clean scissors (for cutting the cord, if necessary)
- Large bowl (to collect the placenta)
For Mom
- Large sanitary pads
- Pain relief (acetaminophen or ibuprofen—only if approved by your provider)
- Antibacterial soap
👉 You can find more recovery essentials in our postpartum recovery checklist.
For Baby
- Six disposable diapers
- Extra blankets for warmth
👉 Don’t miss our full newborn essentials checklist to make sure you’re fully prepared at home too.
Hygiene & Safety
- Small bottle of isopropyl alcohol
- Cotton balls (for cord care)
- Chemical cold pack (for swelling/comfort)
How to Handle an Emergency Birth (Step-by-Step Basics)
This is not a replacement for medical care. Always call 911 first.
1. Prepare a Clean Space
- Place underpads or clean towels under mom
- Wash hands or wear gloves if available
2. Support the Baby as They Arrive
- Do not pull—let the baby come naturally
- Gently support the head and body
3. Keep Baby Warm (Skin-to-Skin)
Immediately place baby on mom’s chest:
- Promotes bonding
- Helps regulate temperature
- Supports breathing and heart rate
4. Clear the Airway (If Needed)
- Use a bulb syringe to gently clear mouth/nose
- Only if baby is not breathing well
5. Delay Cord Cutting (If Possible)
- If help is on the way, wait for professionals
- If necessary:
- Tie cord in two places (with clean shoelaces)
- Cut between ties using sterilized scissors
How to Sterilize Supplies in an Emergency
If you have time:
- Boil scissors and shoelaces for 20 minutes
- Let them cool without touching
If boiling isn’t possible:
- Wash with soap and water
- Soak in alcohol until needed
Support Early Breastfeeding
If possible, initiate breastfeeding soon after birth:
- Helps reduce postpartum bleeding
- Clears baby’s airway naturally
- Provides immune-boosting colostrum
👉 If you’re planning to breastfeed, explore our breastfeeding basics guide for new moms.
Focus on Safety—Not Perfection
In an emergency birth situation, your priorities are simple:
✔ Keep baby warm
✔ Support breathing
✔ Reduce infection risk
✔ Wait for medical help
You don’t need to do everything perfectly.
How Common Are Emergency Births?
The good news: they’re rare.
Most parents have enough warning—such as:
- Regular contractions
- Water breaking
—giving them time to reach the hospital.
However, in about 1% of cases, labor progresses quickly. That’s where preparation brings peace of mind.
Why Every Parent Should Consider an Emergency Birth Kit
Even if you never use it, having a kit:
- Reduces panic
- Helps you feel prepared
- Supports safer outcomes in rare situations
Think of it like insurance—you hope you never need it, but you’ll be glad it’s there.
About the Medical Reviewer
Dr. Nita Landry is a board-certified OB/GYN and co-host of the Emmy® Award-winning talk show The Doctors. She is dedicated to educating women on reproductive health and pregnancy care.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider when preparing for labor and delivery.