What To Bring
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 | |
| lip balm | |
| wash bag with toiletries | |
| toothbrush and toothpaste | |
| camera | |
| drinks and snacks for you and your partner. |
Bag two (after the birth)
| two nightdresses (front opening for easy breastfeeding) | |
| easy-to-wear day clothes (like a tracksuit - again with a front-opening top for easy breastfeeding) | |
| underwear, including comfy full briefs (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. |