subject: Giving Birth - Plan And Arrangements You Must Do [print this page] Pack your bags! Pack your bags!
At some stage in the third trimester of your pregnancy you will need to pack a hospital bag with everything youll need during and after giving birth.
Nobody, apart from your baby, knows when she will be arriving or how much of a hurry she will be in to make an appearance. So it makes sense not to leave packing until the last moment.
Having your bags packed and ready during your pregnancy means you'll be prepared for her arrival.
You may want to have two bags ready. One could be a giving birth bag with things you may need during labour (whether you are planning on a home or hospital birth.)
The other would be for you and your babys stay in hospital.
Different hospitals have different requirements, for example, some provide washable nappies while others expect you to bring in your own disposables. If you're having a hospital birth at some stage in your pregnancy it's worth asking your midwife or the hospital for a list of what you'll need.
But here are some suggestions:
Items for your giving birth bag
Your maternity notes and birth plan (make sure these are easily accessible)
Loose cotton T-shirt or nightdress to wear during labour (preferably one you are ok to throw away afterwards)
Socks to keep your feet warm
TENS machine if you are using one
Natural sponge for mopping your face or sucking on
Massage oil or lotion for back rubs
Water spray to cool you down
Towel, toiletries, tissues and hairbrush
MP3 player and camera
Favourite CD if you are allowed to play your own music in the ward
Snacks and drinks for you and your birth partner
Money for car park and phone or a phone card (mobiles may not be allowed)
Items for your stay in hospital
For you:
Nightdress (front opening for breastfeeding)
Dressing gown and slippers
Nursing bras
Towel, wash things, toiletries and cosmetics
Several older, cheap or disposable knickers
Maternity or super-absorbent sanitary towels
Clothes and shoes for going home in
Books, magazines
For your baby:Newborn nappies and nappy sacks Baby toiletries and cotton wool2/3 sleep suits2/3 vestsOutdoor clothes suitable for the time of yearShawls or cot blanketBaby car seat for taking your baby homeThese check lists cover the main items you'll want to take with you, but you may want to add other, more personal items, such as a photograph of other children or a gift to give an older sibling from the new arrival.Snacks and drinks can be added to your bags at the last minute.by: Debra Aspinall
