What to pack

As you get closer to your due date there are lots of things to arrange. It makes sense to have a bag packed and ready to go. You’ll probably want to pack two bags, one with things you want for the actual labour and one with everything you’ll need afterwards – including something for your new baby to wear going home!

Bag one (labour)

• mineral water spray or a plant spray with a fine nozzle. Put it in a fridge (if possible) to keep it cool
• two facecloths for cooling your face and skin
• music player
• unscented oil or a light body lotion for massage
• thermal pack (the sort you can heat in a microwave for taking with you on cold outings – it stays warm for hours). It can be wrapped in a towel and used as a warm compress to relieve aches in the back or in the legs
• old nightdress (front opening for easy breastfeeding) or old T-shirt, dressing-gown (robe) and sandals or slippers
• hairbrush, and hair bands for long hair
• wash bag with toiletries
• toothbrush and toothpaste
• phone card/coins
• camera
• drinks and snacks for you and your partner.

Bag two (after the birth)

• two nightdresses (front opening for easy breastfeeding)
• easy-to-wear dayclothes (like a tracksuit – again with a front-opening top for easy breastfeeding)
• underwear, including large, close-fitting pants (to hold maternity pads), and nursing bras – you may find disposable pants useful for the first few days
• towels
• maternity pads or night-time sanitary pads
• breast pads
• tissues
• unscented toiletries and cosmetics
• nappies for the baby
• vests and sleep suits for the baby
• cotton wool balls and nappy cream
• fruit juice/mineral water
• healthy snacks.