Did you know that you should have your hospital bag packed and ready to go a few weeks before your due date. Please make sure that your partner knows where it is.
Please free to print and tick off as you pack your bag.
You should aim to fill a small suitcase – nothing too large. If you are staying in for a bit longer, your partner, family members can always bring any extra items that you might need.
While you wait
- Books and magazines
- Headphones and a good playlist
- iPad/Tablet
For you
- Your birth plan
- Hair band
- Snacks and drinks
- Mobile phone and charger
- Several pairs of big, black high-waisted knickers
- Maternity pads
- Lanolin Nipple Cream (if breastfeeding)
- Baby wipes or sanitary wipes, to help you feel fresh
- Nappy sacks
- Short-sleeved nightgown or front-opening shirt – something loose and comfortable to wear during labour that doesn’t restrict you from moving around or make you too hot, plus about 3 changes of clothes.
- Dressing gown
- Bendy straws, as it will be difficult to sit up and drink
- Nursing bras (bring two or three)
- Breast pads
- Backless, slip-on slippers
- Wrap or shawl to have around your shoulders if you get cold
- Fibre-rich snacks to help with constipation
- Lip balm
- Hand cream
- Washbag with all your toiletries – travel size moisturiser, shower gel etc.
- Comfy, loose clothing for when you’re up and about
- Eye mask
- Make up
- Hair brush
- Confidence! Don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it
For your little one
- Between 10 sleepsuits and 15 sleepsuits and vests.
Nappies – you’ll need as many as 12 a day for your
newborn - Muslin squares
- Several pairs of socks or booties
- A couple of hats
- One outfit for the trip home
- Jacket or snowsuit for winter babies
- Baby blanket, in case it’s chilly outside when you leave
- Cotton Wool
If you would like to add anything else – please comment below.
TOP TIPS
Don’t forget that when you come home, you won’t want to do much more than rest and care for your baby, so do as much planning as you can in advance. Stock up on basics, such as toilet paper, sanitary towels and nappies. If you have a freezer, cook some meals in advance and freeze them.
If you think you’ve over-packed, leave non-essential or larger items in the car boot. Your partner can always pop out to retrieve them for you later.
Youtube videos about Maternity units in Glasgow – if you are giving birth at a different hospital the videos below give you a good insight:
Southern General Hospital video
Princess Royal Maternity Labour Video
Have you booked your Newborn Photographer? If not, please get in touch below:
