We encourage you to start packing a bag ready for you and your baby as you approach 36 weeks of pregnancy regardless of where you have chosen to give birth.
Hopefully you will only be on ward (for at most) a couple of days following the birth of your baby. This means you should only need to bring enough clothes and personal items to keep you and baby comfortable for a short time.
Whatever you decide to bring is a personal choice, but we have some suggestions on what may be useful to pack:
Things to pack for you:
- Personal wash bag items such as deodorant, shampoo, bodywash, toothpaste and toothbrush, hairbrush and bobble, lip balm and a facecloth/flannel
- Something cool and loose to wear during labour such as a cotton nighty or a large t-shirt, including something to wear in the birthing pool (the hospital can provide a gown if you would prefer this)
- Dressing gown, slippers and nightwear
- Support bra to wear while breastfeeding
- Four or five pairs of disposable underwear and maternity pads
- Pair of socks
- Spray to help keep you cool during labour
- Snacks, magazines, newspapers, music and books (for your and your partner)
- Confortable clothing to go home in
Things your partner might need:
- Comfortable clothing and a change of clothes – it gets warm on the unit
- Suitable indoor footwear
- Toiletries
- Meals and snacks
Things to pack for your baby:
- First size nappies for baby
- Cotton wool
- Baby clothes – two to three size of vests and baby grows, cardigan
- woollen hat
- Baby going home outfit
- Baby blanket
- Bib for baby when feeding or muslin wipes
- If choosing formula, bring some ready-made packs that come with the teat (Newborn starter pack)