What should I pack in my hospital bag for labour?

Pregnancy
Written By Penny Stanbury

Our midwives have put together two helpful lists for the essentials needed during your birth and postnatal stay.

It is helpful to pack a smaller overnight bag for the delivery suite and a suitcase for your postnatal stay.

 

What to Bring to the Delivery Suite:

  • Your yellow card (in the red Dr Morris pouch)

  • Water bottle

  • Something comfortable to wear in labour if you choose to wear clothes – large t-shirt

  • Tools for labour – aroma therapy, massage oil, music, pictures, tens machine, comfort pillow etc

  • Bikini – only if you choose to be covered in the bath

  • Lip balm and hair ties

  • Change of clothes and toiletries for after birth including breastfeeding bra/breastfeeding pads and maternity pads.

 

Delivery Suite Supply:

  • Fit ball

  • Mats

  • Beanbag

  • Hot Packs

  • Towels

 

Items for Partners/Support Person for Delivery Suite:

  • Water bottle

  • Warmth for overnight in delivery suite.

  • Swimmers (board shorts/cozzie) for assistance with shower and bath

  • Comfy shoes

  • Snacks (most cafes and vending machines not accessible overnight)

  • Clothes and toiletries if staying overnight beyond delivery suite (check what is available for partners at your hospital)

 

 

What To Bring To Hospital For Your Postnatal Stay

Normal Delivery – 3 day stay.  Caesarean Section – 5 day stay.

  • Water bottle

  • Clothes for a 3-5 day stay (depending on your delivery) clothes need to be comfortable and good for breastfeeding e.g tracksuit with front zipper and t- shirts.

  • Comfortable footwear.

  • Pyjamas – helpful if they button up at the front.

  • At least 5-7 pairs of underwear (comfortable cottontails are the best to accommodate large maternity pads)

  • Maternity Pads – the hospital may supply enough for your first day and you will need to supply the rest.

  • Maternity bras or maternity singlets.

  • Breast Pads – these are used from day 1 post birth in your breastfeeding bra. These are not at all supplied by the hospital.

  • All toiletries

  • Phone/charger

  • Camera

  • Nappies, clothes, wrap and blanket for the baby’s trip home

  • Depending on your hospital, you may need to provide baby clothes, wraps, nappies and wipes for your postnatal stay. Please check this with your hospital.

  • Please leave valuables at home. Wallet and camera should be with you if attending classes or out of your room.

BABY CAPSULE READY IN THE CAR!

Penny Stanbury
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