You’ve only got a few weeks to go and wondering what do I need to take to hospital? Well I’ve put together a list of what I think are the essentials both for the birth and the hospital stay for yourselves and bubs afterwards. It might be a good idea to take two bags, one for the birth and one for hospital. Check with your hospital what they supply you with as you may be able to cut down on a few things.
FOR MUM
During Labour:
- Birth plan
- Old nightie or t-shirt to give birth in (probably best not to have something new as it will get messy)
- Dressing gown
- Slippers
- Socks
- Massage oil – if you would like to be massaged during labour
- Lip balm
- Snacks and drinks
- Books / magazines / music – anything that will help you relax and pass the time
- Hair tie – especially if you have long hair you might want to tie it back to keep it out of the way
- Heat pack – would be especially good if you get labour pain in your back
For the hospital Stay:
- Your own pillow – might help you sleep better in the hospital
- Toiletries – hair brush, toothbrush, toothpaste etc
- Breast pads – Bambooby Buddies of course!
- Maternity pads – will probably need 3 – 4 packs
- Underwear – a couple of maternity bras and some cheap or old knickers, not your best lacy numbers as they will just get ruined!
- Pyjamas
- Comfy , loose clothing to wear for the first few days. If you have a caesarean will want some pants that are not too tight around your waist. Plus will want tops with easy access for breastfeeding, I found the breastfeeding singlets good for the first few days while getting the hang of it
BIRTH PARTNER
- Camera – don’t want to miss the first few precious moments of your baby’s life
- Watch – with second hand to time contractions
- Snacks and drinks
- Swimwear – if you are having a water birth
- Mobile phone – so you can let all the important people in your life the big news
- Change of clothes
- Make sure the car seat if fitted, otherwise you won’t be able to leave the hospital!
FOR BABY
- Singlets – I like the all in one singlet suits that do up under bubs bottom, as they don’t ride up – you will need one per day for your stay. Will probably mainly need size 0000, but might want to have a couple 000 just in case!
- Jumpsuits – the ones with feet in and cuffs that go over the babies hands are good – most hospitals are kept at a fairly even temperature so long sleeve are best to keep bubs warm, again one per day
- Hat
- Swaddle / wrap – it is recommended that most babies are swaddled as it helps them to sleep better and control there startle reflex – I would take at least four
- Blanket for the bassinet – I prefer light cotton cellular blankets that way you can add or remove blankets if bubs is to hot or cold
- Nappies – check with the hospital if you need to bring these as some supply them
- Wipes and bags for dirty nappies
- Baby bath soap
- Jacket or cardigan in case it is cold when you leave the hospital
- Burping cloths – in case you have a chucky baby
- Your nappy bag – for the trip home, just in case you need it