There's nothing like packing your hospital bag to get your mind focused on the up-coming labour and meeting your newborn baby. Have the essentials packed and ready-to-go by the end of your 36th week – just in case your baby decides to come early. Our check-list covers all the essentials you will need.
Before the birth:
- Hospital notes
- Birth plan
- Birthing aids
- TENS machine
- Warm socks or slippers
- Hair bands or grips for longer hair
- Toothbrush and paste
- Lip balm
- Face flannel
- Drinks and snacks
- Glucose tablets
- Any prescribed medication you usually take
- Towel
- Water spray – if it's hot
- Camera/camcorder and charger or batteries
- Mobile phone and charger
- Games, books, things to do
- iPod and music
- List of phone numbers for your birth partner to ring
After the birth:
- Disposable or loose comfortable pants
- Maternity sanitary towels
- Two sets of nightwear. If you're planning to breast-feed choose nightwear with front fastening
- Dressing gown
- Nursing bra
- Breast pads
- Nipple cream
- Shower gel, shampoo and conditioner plus your cosmetics
- Comfortable clothes and shoes to travel home in.
- Newborn nappies
- Cotton-wool balls or baby wipes
- Towel
- Sleep suits and vests (about six of each)
- Cardigan
- Cellular blankets
- Baby hat and scratch mittons
- Warm suit if it's cold
- Pack of muslins
- Pack of bibs
- Cuddly toy (suitable from birth)
- Car seat
Back to 30 weeks pregnant