Planning for the arrival of a little one can feel overwhelming and packing your maternity hospital bag is daunting for most women. We have created this easy check list for you to take some of the stress away!

Get your bags ready from 3 weeks before your due date in case your baby decides to come a little earlier than expected.

We advise packing 3 bags: 

• One for labour 
• One for your baby after the delivery 
• One for your birth partner 

It’s a good idea to also pack a 4th bag to keep at home with extra supplies in case you have a prolonged stay in hospital after birth. 

In your main hospital bag (a large holdall size) pack:

For labour:

• Your birth plan (if you have one) and hospital notes.
• Your regular medications and some additional pain relief.
• A TENS machine if you plan to use one.
• A spare pillow and pillow case. 
• A loose-fitting t-shirt or dress to wear during labour. Bring a couple of changes of clothes. 
• Supportive bras (nursing if you want to breast feed). 
• Socks. 
• Flip flops (for the shower) and slippers. 
• A wash bag – toothbrush, hairbrush, shampoo and conditioner, soap, flannel. 
• A battery powered fan and water spray to help you keep cool. 
• Lip balm.
• Healthy snacks and drinks.
• Magazines, books, music. 
• Body lotion or massage oil – some women may find a back massage from a partner relaxing during labour. 
• Essential oils roll-ons if you find benefit from these.
• Phone and phone charger. 

For post-birth:

• Ear plugs and an eye mask (postnatal ward can be noisy!).
• Dark coloured towels.
• Breast pads and nipple cream.
• Several pairs of dark coloured or disposable knickers.
• 2 packets of heavy-duty maternity pads. It’s normal to bleed and this may be heavy initially.
• 2 pairs of loose-fitting pyjamas or a nightgown that are front opening/ button down if you are planning on breast feeding.
• A squirty water bottle – your first wee after delivery can sting. Squirting water on during and after urination can provide comfort and help keep your healing perineum clean.,

For the baby:

• Plenty of nappies
• Body suits, vests and sleepsuits (newborn and tiny baby sizes to be prepared for all birth weights)
• An outfit for going home in (weather appropriate).
• A hat, socks or booties and scratch mittens (newborns get cold easily).
• A shawl or blanket
• Muslim squares.
• A car seat for the trip home.
• Some ready-made formula bottles.

” Disclaimer: This article is for information only and should not be used for the diagnosis or treatment of medical conditions. For The Creators has used all reasonable care in compiling the information but make no warranty as to its accuracy. Consult a doctor or other health care professional for diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions. “