One of the major milestones for your pregnancy & a sign you’re coming close to full term is packing your hospital bag for your birth. This might be common sense or another overwhelming pregnancy task you’ve been avoiding.

Knowing babies don’t follow a routine we’d suggest you pack your bag & have it on stand by from about week 36. It’s always good to let your partner know where it is.

To make life as easy as possible for you, here’s a check list of what you might need for the big day:Have your medical records handy, so that your doctors can easily see your medical history.

Your birth plan (if you have one). You might have discussed your birth plan with your midwife, but it’s always good to have a copy for anyone medical staff coming in.

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  • A soft, dressing gown is useful for pacing around during labour, or afterward, if you spend some time in the hospital.
  
  
  
  

 

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  • Warm socks in case your feet get cold during labour.
  
  
  
  

 

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  • Slippers that are comfortable, with a good grip and easy to slip in and out of to wear as you walk around the hospital ward. Pack some flip-flops for using in the shower.
  
  
  
  

 

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  • Some mums-to-be find a little massage during labour relaxing. If this could be you, pop some lotion or oil in your hospital bag.
  
  
  
  

 

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  • A spray bottle or flannel/spring
    During labour, you may feel you’re getting a little hot, especially in the summer. It could help to spray some water on your face and neck, or to sponge some cool water on your forehead.
  
  
  
  

 

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  • Headband & clips if you have long hair or fridge, to prevent your hair falling in your face during labour.
  
  
  
  

 

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  • Your Toiletry essentials. Don’t forget towels, tissues, hairbrush, deodorant, toothbrush, toothpaste, face wash, body wash, shampoo, conditioner, your normal skincare products, hairdryer, hair clips, and hair ties. Pack a plastic bag to pop dirty clothes in. Glasses or contacts if needed
  
  
  
  

 

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  • Your lips can get chapped during labour. Having some lip balm on hand will help hydrate your lips.
  
  
  
  

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  • Pack some things to help you pass the time like books, magazines, a tablet with a charger that has movies or series downloaded on it, or a music player.
  
  
  
  

 

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  • Don’t forget your phone charger, preferably with an extra-long lead so you can use your phone while sitting in bed
  
  
  
  

 

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  • You might have to stay overnight or possibly longer so it’s always a good idea to bring something comfortable to sleep in.  Pack at least one soft, loose night dress. Choose a front-opening one if you plan to breastfeed.
  
  
  
  

 

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  • Take a few nursing bras or other comfortable, well-fitting bras.
  
  
  
  

 

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  • Pack comfortable underwear that you won’t mind getting messy, and that are large enough for maternity pads.
  
  
  
  

 

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  • Heavy-duty maternity pads. Although the hospital may provide some, pack plenty of heavy-duty maternity pads, just in case.
  
  
  
  

 

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  • Clothes, you might want to take some comfortable clothes to wear during your stay in hospital. Pack an extra outfit to wear home. Choose something loose-fitting, ideally with a drawstring or an elastic waist.
  
  
  
  

 

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  • Snacks and drinks. As we all know labour can sometimes be very long, so you might want to take some of your favourite treats & drinks.. However, speak to your medical team about whether or not you will be allowed to eat or drink anything during labour. Also, consider packing some snacks for after labour as you may feel like some comfort food during your hospital stay.
  
  
  
  

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  • Change to pay for parking or use in the vending machines. (In case the contactless doesn’t work)
  
  
  
  

 

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  • Again ensure they have a phone changer & maybe a tablet to keep them entertained in between contractions
  
  
  
  

 

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  • Many leave a small pillow in your car they can grab in case you’re there overnight.
  
  
  
  

 

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  • It might also be a good idea to have a change of clothes in the car to save them going home you might want to add their favourite Sweets, snacks & drinks to help keep their energy up.
  
  
  
  

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  • Babygrows. Hospital policies can vary on what newborns can be dressed in so check with your midwife about what to pack.
  
  
  
  

 

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  • Hats, socks and booties. Newborns can get cold easily.  Even during skin-to-skin contact, your newborn can wear a hat and socks.
  
  
  
  

 

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  • Blanket. the hospital will more than likely provide blankets, a blanket of your own is always good to have on hand to use during skin-to-skin contact. It can also be used to keep your baby warm in the car seat on the way home.
  
  
  
  

 

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  • Nappies. Again the hospital will have nappies available, but your might want to bring a handful of your own newborn nappies & wet wipes for sensitive skin.
  
  
  
  

 

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  • Muslin squares. These can be used for all sorts, babies can be quite messy. Muslin squares can be draped on your shoulder or placed underneath the baby to prevent dribbles from getting on your clothes.
  
  
  
  

 

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  • Going-home outfit. Depending on the time of year: a bodysuit, booties and hat could be fine during the warmer months, but in winter pack mittens and a jacket or snowsuit as well. But remember, thick coats & pram suit should be removed when in the car seat & instead tuck a blanket in above the car seat harness.
  
  
  
  

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Let us know if you have any other amazing products that helped you during your labour x