Deciding what to take with you to hospital can be difficult.  Of course, no one wants to be there for longer than necessary, but sometimes this can be unpredictable, especially if you are accepting an induction.

 

If you are having a homebirth, it is still sensible to pack a bag in case you decide to transfer to hospital at any point.

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Taking a mountain of luggage, or bringing valuables is not the best idea.  Space in labour rooms is often limited and the floor needs to be kept clear for access and safety.  There will not be anywhere you can lock things away securely, and you may be moved from one room to another while you are not there, for example if you have a caesarean section you may have your items moved from labour ward to recovery ward while you are in theatre.  It is advisable to have everything kept in one or two bags, so that they can be picked up and moved easily if needed.  Taking toiletries in smaller quantities, as you would when travelling can make a huge difference to the size and weight of your bags.  Despite all this, if you can, take a pillow with a bright pillowcase - pillows are scarce on almost every ward and having a spare that smells of home can be comforting!

 

This is our basic suggested checklist, and we would suggest having it packed by 36 weeks.

For baby:

• Two baby vests

• Two baby grows

• A pair of baby mitts

• Two baby hats

• Pack of about 25 nappies

• Wipes

• A note pinned on top of the bag reminding you to grab colostrum out of the freezer if you have been expressing

• If you are planning to bottle feed your baby, ready made milk and bottles/teats

• Car seat and appropriate baby clothes for the trip home

For you:

• Your Birth Plan and hospital notes if they are handheld rather than online

• Any medicines you usually take - think antacids and pile creams as well as the usual ones!

• Phone charger cables

• Large comfortable knickers

• Maternity pads

• Maternity bra, or a comfortable, non underwired bra and breast pads

• Two T shirts

• Two pairs of light trousers or leggings

• Socks

• Comfy clothes for going home in - to include a coat if needed

• Slippers or flip flops

• Snacks.  Dried fruit, cereal bars, isotonic drinks and jelly babies are our favourites for labour if you are not diabetic

• Pyjamas

• Waterproof toiletries bag containing

Toothbrush and toothpaste

Deodorant

Soap or shampoo/shower gel and flannel or sponge

Hairbrush/comb and hair ties if you have long hair

 

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