If you are having your baby in hospital you will need to take a number of essential items with you to help you cope with labour and take care of yourself and your new baby. It’s a good idea to have your hospital bag packed and ready about four weeks before your due date just in case your baby comes early. Here are some of the things you will need and some options you may like to consider.
We recommend that you print this page as a handy checklist !
For your labour you will need…
| What | Why |
| Your birth plan | so your carers know what you want |
| Large nightdress or t-shirt | to give birth in |
| Dressing gown or robe | dignity and warmth! |
| Warm socks | your feet can get very cold in labour |
| Small hand held mirror | if you want to see your baby crown |
| Lip salve/petroleum jelly | gas & air can make your mouth & lips very dry |
| Ice pack | to relieve backache |
| Tissues | blood, sweat & tears need we say more |
| Water spray & sponge/flannel | ideal for a freshen up & to keep you cool |
| Personal/portable stereo | to relax to & take your mind off the pain! |
| Drinks and glucose tablets | to keep your energy levels high |
| Massage Oil | massage can be very soothing in labour |
Immediately after the birth you will need…
| 2 or 3 front opening nightdresses | for breastfeeding |
| Slippers | for moving about the ward |
| 2 large bath towels (dark colour) | they don’t show the stains! |
| Flannel and liquid soap | they will not usually be provided |
| Change/phonecards | you will want to call everyone you know? |
| List of telephone numbers | Obvious |
| Toiletries, toothbrush, make up etc | so you don’t scare your visitors |
| Maternity pads (2 packs) | very uncomfortable but definitely worth it |
| Disposable or old knickers | they will stain even with maternity pads |
| Breast pads | to stop your clothes getting soaked in breast milk |
| Nursing bras | to hold the breast pads & make you more comfortable |
| Snacks and drinks | you’ll be starving after the birth |
| Camera | those first proud pictures are irreplaceable |
| Magazines, books, something to do | babies sleep a lot in the first few days |
| Ear plugs/eye shade | baby wards can be very noisy day or night |
Your baby will need…
| 1 pack of newborn nappies | easier to deal with than Terries until you get the hang of it |
| Nappy bags | old carrier bags will do to put the dirty nappies in |
| 2 cotton vests | depending on the season to keep your baby warm |
| 2 cotton sleepsuits | to keep your baby warm and comfortable |
| Sample pot of nappy cream | regular tubs are huge and heavy – you’ve got enough to carry |
| Cotton wool | used with cooled boiled water to clean your baby |
| Baby wipes | because we all like the easy option! |
For going home you will need…
| Outdoor clothes for you | unless you want to go home in your nightie |
| Rear facing newborn car seat | you cannot drive your baby home without one! |
| Going home clothes for your baby | for warmth or protection from the sun – you’ll need a hat whatever the weather! |