What to pack in your Maternity hospital bag
Packing your hospital bag ready for labour, delivery and postnatally is an exciting but for some a nervous time. Generally, the advice is to get your bag ready approximately 3 weeks before your due date, however many will have got it ready well before then (often packing and unpacking it more than once…well if you are anything like I was then you will. Sounding familiar?). If your little one decides to make an earlier than expected appearance, having a list of things you may need may be useful for your partner or family/friends who are keen to help in any way they can. Plus a checklist of things to check before leaving the house, will ensure you have told anyone who needs to know that you are going into hospital and that any pets get fed and watered!
You may want to have two bags, one main bag and a smaller separate bag for your baby. Some women will have an extra bag at home with some extra clothes in, just in case your stay in hospital is longer than 24 hours. This will make it easy for someone to grab and bring in for you if needed and will ensure you have everything you need/want.
You will already know to take your maternity notes with you (if you have them) wherever you go and you should take a copy of your birth plan and hospital notes into the hospital with you.
This list is a guide and not exhaustive, with some of the items for your comfort.
- .Wash bag with contents. Including hair ties and small hand held battery operated fan or water spray, lip balm and a towel (a dark coloured towel is preferable), nipple balm
- .Loose clothes that are comfortable and not restrictive – up to 3 changes.
- Loose fitting or front opening nighties or pyjama tops (if you are planning to breastfeed). Dressing gown and slippers or a comfortable alternative for example flip flops.
- Underwear – 5/6 pairs and some supportive bras/breast feeding bras, breast pads.
- A pack of sanitary towels (super absorbent). The hospital will have some, but you may find your own more comfortable.
- Something to read/listen to (music). Phones and battery pack charger (check if you are allowed to use chargers in power points at your local hospital).
- Healthy snacks and drinks. Your body will be working hard in labour and this can mean you won’t be able to digest your food as well. Foods that are easily digestible, such as bananas or crackers will help keep your energy levels up. Plus cereal bars, isotonic sports drinks and gum type sweets are a good source of energy.
- Your birthing partner will find it useful to bring in some drinks/snacks and something to read or listen to also. Money/payment method for parking and vending machines.
- Your regular medication.
- TENS machine if using for pain relief (liaise with your midwife regarding what is offered by your local hospital).
Somethings for your baby (nappies, muslins, hats, vests and bodysuits/sleepsuits/something to wear home/blanket). You will also need a car seat brought in /ready for when you are taking your baby home.. A useful tip is to put, for example, baby’s first outfit/hat and nappy in a sealed, labelled clear bag so it can be easily located and seen by your birthing partner etc without having to search amongst lots of other things.
There are lots more tips and advice on what to pack/not necessary to pack from websites including the NHS website:
Pack your bag for labour – NHS (www.nhs.uk)
Hospital bag checklist: what do I need to take? | NCT
Packing your bag for labour and birth | Tommy’s (tommys.org)