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.
