Hospital Bag Checklist

For Mum

n Birth Plan and Maternity Notes.

n Dressing gown. For hospital strolls in early labour and for loo trips on the postnatal ward. Preferably a dark or patterned one to hide any potential ‘leaks’ n Old Slippers that you don’t care aboutbabymoon free hotel slippers are ideal n Nightdress or T-shirt to wear in labour –not your favourite one! n Birth Ball. If the hospital does not have your size, take your own – and a pump n Lip balm. Dry lips are a usual annoyance in labour wards – be ready for that first gentle kiss n Snacks and Drinks. Deserving of your favourite treats & energy foods (for that extra push) n Ipad, Ipod, Kindle/Books, Magazines… You might not feel like it but just in case n Hairbands. Unless you’ve a ‘pixie cut’ or prefer a sweat band n Pillows. If you need extras to sleep, a V-shaped pillow can double up for feeding comfort n TENS pain relief machine, if you are planning to use one n Music. Classical, rave, dance…. whatever mood tickles your fancy n Mobile Phone and the charger

FOR THE BABY:-

n Sleepsuits and Vests x 2 – 4 (Newborn and 0-3 months) n Baby blanket. For leaving the warmth of the hospital… and creating a luxurious first photo n Nappies. At least one pack – your newborn could get through a dozen in a day n Cotton wool. For cleaning a brand new little bottom n Muslin squares. So versatile, but especially great for any milk baby returns (posseting)

MUM AFTER THE BIRTH:-

n A going-home outfit. Loose comfy clothes especially around the waist n Nursing bras. Two or three if you plan to breastfeed (wear them in first for extra comfort) n Breast pads – To catch ‘drips’ as your hormones settle n Maternity pads. The more the better –at least 2 packs n Nightshirt or T-shirt. Front-opening shirts are ideal for feeding and skin-to-skin bonding n Toiletries and make-up (if you wish) n Towels, hairbrush, toothbrush and toothpaste. n Old Knickers/ Disposable pants. Leave strings and Sunday best at home, the softer, older and bigger the better n Arnica Pillules. Some women swear by this and it’s effects even in reducing internal bruising n Eye mask and earplugs to help you sleep on a brightly lit, noisy ward n Plastic bags – for dirty clothes n Hat. Baby loses most heat through their head and are used to being very snuggly and warm n Socks or Booties. n Scratch mits. Not all babies arrive manicured n An outfit for the trip home. All-in-one stretchy outfits are easiest n Jacket or Snowsuit. Note: this needs removing before baby goes in a car seat n Car seat. Some hospitals won’t let you leave without one (unless you are walking)

Do not forget your mask(s)… if we still need them?

FOR DAD/ BIRTHING PARTNER

n Snacks and drinks. Have everything to hand to avoid missing any action n Loose change. For parking, payphone or peanuts n Mobile Phone. For announcement calls and some special photos (take the ‘proper camera’ if you have one). A pre-downloaded app to time and record contractions can be useful n Toothbrush and toothpaste. Mints are handy should you need speedy freshness n A change of clothes. To freshen up after a long night….day…..night…. n Something to read. When Mum is resting or not feeling chatty it’s good to have a distraction n A Pillow. Dads get tired too, although probably best not to mention it! n Swimwear. In case of a water birth and you want to dive on in (No… step in - safety first) n Massage oils. You can provide some natural pain relief for your partner n Water spray, or a hand-held fan. To keep you both ‘cool’