What to pack for labour & birth
One of the most powerful things you can do in preparation for birth is remove the things you can't control from your mind and take care of the things you can. Having your birth bag packed and ready by 36 weeks is one of the simplest and most effective ways to feel prepared. Whether you are planning a hospital birth, a birth centre or a home birth, this checklist covers everything you, your birth companion and your baby are likely to need, so that when the moment comes, you can be fully present for it.
Birth bag check list
What you need will be personl to you, but here are some suggestions of what you could consider for your birth bag to feel prepared:
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Hospital notes, copies of your birth preferences, a list of contact numbers for people you or your partner may want to call, e.g. parents, pet sitters, neighbours etc.
A maternity bed mat, or a waterproof sheet and extra towels for car seats.
Cushion/pillows, towels and blankets from home and other additional comforts, e.g. aromatherapy oils, facial spritz etc.
Warm socks, ideally ones with grips so you can move around freely in different birth positions.
If listening to HypnoBirthing tracks and relaxation music make sure to download them on your phone, and to bring headphones.
Eye mask.
Hair ties or head band to keep hair off your face.
Entertainment–phone/iPad loaded with content including podcasts and music, a book, magazines and puzzles.
For labour and birth: pyjamas and lounging clothes. If you plan on getting into the birth pool a t-shirt, slip or bikini top.
Maternity pads and old/disposable underwear.
Witch hazel lotion or a postpartum perennial spray for relief from any soreness, and to support with healing.
Wash bag, including tooth brush, tooth paste, shampoo and conditioner, body wash, face wipes, hair brush, lip balm –basically anything that will you freshen up and feel good post-birth.
Flip flops for the showers.
A container for your placenta and the contact details of your placenta encapsulation specialist, if you plan on encapsulating.
A water bottle, and snacks–it’s handy to have something accessible for night time breastfeeding, and for out of hours at the hospital or birth centre.
Antibacterial hand gel and/wipes.
Plastic bags for dirty clothes and towels.
Dressing gown, nightwear that is breast feeding friendly i.e. slip dress or loose or buttoned night dress or pyjamas.
Comfortable clothing and shoes for the journey back home.
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HypnoBirthing book and materials.
Camera.
Comfortable clothing and a change of clothes.
Suitable indoor footwear, i.e. flip flops or slippers.
Toiletries.
Water bottle and your OWN snacks.
Phone charger.
Phone with hospital parking app downloaded.
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Baby grows and vests. Pack 2-3 of each.
Cardigan.
Baby hat.
Baby blanket and swaddle.
Muslin cloths.
Baby towel.
Newborn sized nappies, cotton balls and nappy bags.
Baby car seat pre-fitted into car for the journey home.
Planning for birth? Find out how HypnoBirthing® can help you feel calm, confident and prepared.
This checklist was created as a resource for parents preparing for birth including those taking my HypnoBirthing® course. If you haven't yet explored HypnoBirthing, find out how it could transform your experience of labour and birth.