![]() Pack as many of the items beforehand as you can. ![]() We recommend having a bag packed about a month before the baby's due date. Magazine/book – you won’t get a lot of free time but it’s nice to have something if you get 5 minutes.Many expecting parents are curious on what they should bring to the hospital for their delivery and the following will hopefully provide some guidance. Snacks! – Great options are nuts (particularly almonds), low-sugar muesli bars, crackers, fruit etc. ![]() Lanolin nipple cream (Purelan is great) and/or Hydrogel or Manuka breast pads if you are planning to breastfeed – these will always come in handy! Maternity pads – many birthing units provide these but they can be uncomfortable so you may want to bring your own supply ![]() Toiletries – shampoo, conditioner, body wash etc.īig, comfortable underwear – high-waisted black cotton underwear are the best It can feel amazing to have a shower and get changed into your own clothes so bring enough for the duration of your stay Maternity bras if you are planning to breastfeedĬlothes that are easy to learn to breastfeed in - a top that is loose to lift up or opens down the front or a breastfeeding singlet.Ĭomfortable clothes – you don’t need to wear a hospital gown or PJ’s the whole time you’re in hospital. Mobile phone and charger (and camera if you’re planning to use it)ġ-2 outfits for your baby to wear once they arrive (obviously they will only need one but you may want to bring a couple of different sizes).Ĭomfortable clothes for you to change into to transfer to the postnatal ward/birthing unit. Two changes of clothes for your partner – just in case Swimwear for your birthing partner if they intend on getting in a birthing pool with you However, your partner will need snacks so bring plenty. There are circumstances where health professionals prefer women not to eat during labour – you can discuss this with your LMC. Snacks – for yourself and your birthing partner. Music player if you wish to have your own music – some birthing units provide these but it pays to check firstĪ quick sugar hit if you need it – something like jelly snakes or barley sugars TENS machine if you are planning to use oneĪny essential oils that you plan to use during labour So, what should each bag contain? Here are my recommendations:Īny regular medications you currently takeĬomfortable clothes for you to labour in - You can use the hospital gown, baggy t-shirt, bikini top, nightie etc.ĭrink bottle ideally with a sipper top like the Bink (most birthing units will have cold water available but it’s a good idea to take your own ‘easy to drink’ water bottle) Having two bags makes it much easier when you’re moving from the car to the birthing room (often in a hurry) – you just grab your labour bag and leave the postnatal bag for later when you need it. Your postnatal bag will contain everything you need for your postnatal stay. Your labour bag will have all your creature comforts that you think you may like/need when you’re in labour. I suggest that you pack two bags to take to the hospital or birthing unit – one for labour and one for your postnatal stay. ![]() Often your partner will go home in the evening, or your family/friends will be able to bring in anything you’ve forgotten, so don’t get hung up on having everything you could ever need. Most of the time, the place you give birth isn’t actually that far from home. As a midwife, I’ve seen people turn up with suitcases full of ‘stuff’ just in case they need it. Many first time parents are unsure of what they actually need to pack to take to the hospital or birthing unit. Your anticipation is through the roof, carefully folding those tiny clothes that will dress your newborn once they finally arrive. Packing your maternity bag for birth is one of the most exciting parts of getting ready for your new baby. By Andrina Wilson - Midwife & Certified Sleep Consultant ![]()
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