This is a question that is asked constantly by all new mums-to-be.
You need to think about the birthing process in 3 different stages. When you are packing your hospital bag think :
Stage 1 is the labor,
Stage 2 is you and your hospital stay
Stage 3 is the new bundle of joy!
Be prepared and have your hospital bag packed at around 32 weeks just in case your little one decides to turn up early. This will help you feel more in control.
The 1st stage is the labor.
This part could be very quick or could take a while…
So try to think of any eventuality
- Hairbrush
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Slippers
- Socks
- A comfy night dress
- Cardigan or dressing gown
- Car park money
- Your prescription drugs
- A small hand held fan
Oh and don’t forget the list of important telephone numbers
The 2nd stage is what you will require once you have given birth.
The average stay in hospital can be from 6 hrs to about 3 days, this depends on the ease of the birth and the health of mum and baby.
- Large size sanitary/maternity pads
- Comfy nightdress (with front opening if you are planning on breastfeeding)
- Slippers
- Lots of cheap knickers that can be disposed of later.
- Plastic Bags (for laundry)
- Books and magazine
- Wash bag and soap
- Nursing bra and breast pads
- Make-up
- Bath towel in a dark colour
The 3rd stage is what you will require for the newborn
Again this does depend on how long you will be in hospital so this is a starter list
- 1 pack of newborn nappies
- Cotton wool (for cleaning the baby)
- Nappy bags (for placing the soiled nappy in)
- Sudocrem
- Baby blanket
- 2 sleepsuits
- 2 vests
- Socks
- Scratch mittens
- Going home outfit
- Car seat
My daughter was due at the same time as my husband’s birthday so I brought his gift and placed it in the hospital bag just in case. She was born the day before so we were in the hospital on his birthday. It was a nice way to show my husband that he wasn’t forgotten. Although from then on my daughter’s birthday always came first J
I also put a milky bar in my hospital bag for my newborn son to give to his sister as a gift when he was born. I placed it in the cot alongside him for her to find. She was only 2 ½ years old but it was magical to see her face light up and she immediately gave half back to her brother. This was the start of a beautiful bond between big sister and little brother.
So what ever you place in your hospital bag just remember to breath, relax and enjoy your little bundle of joy!