What to pack in your labour bag?
There is a buzz of excitement that goes with the very practical task of packing your hospital bag!
It compels you to run through every possible scenario to think about what you might need. Luckily for you I’ve been there and done that (and I’ve talked to thousands of Mummas to get the low down of what you actually need! So we know all the essentials and the just nice-to-haves!
WHEN TO PACK YOUR BAG?
Ideally, you should have your bag ready, besides the last-minute items, by 36 or 37 weeks of pregnancy just in case you go into labour early, you don’t want to be rushing around flinging random items in a bag at the last minute!
This list has been divided up into the essentials along with some awesome Bellies to Babies Tips!
LABOUR BAG
Lip balm - cracked and sore lips are annoying!
Birth Plan - if you have one
Rescue Remedy - a natural remedy to help calm emotions and anxiety
Pregnancy Wheat pack - check out our shop here for pregnancy wheat bags, perfect for wrapping under your belly or across your lower back - includes dried lavender to aid with your relaxation
Massage lotion/oil
Various music - download our playlist here!
Comfy pillow
Placenta Cocoon from Earth Friendly Cocoons - a beautiful worldwide tradition so you return your placenta to our Earth. You can find these here
Warm socks
Water bottle
Any medications and/or personal items
Bellies to Babies tip: Comforts from home - maybe a photo, favourite pillow. Something that will help you create a comforting, calm, familiar atmosphere for you - this is important, so spend some time gathering bits and pieces to take with you
Diffuser and essential oils - check with your LMC what oils can/can’t be used
Big t-shirt - for comfort
Dressing gown and slippers
Hair ties or hairband
Snacks/muesli bars/lollipops/mints
Magazine/puzzle book - something for distraction
Cell phone and charger
FOR MUM AFTER BIRTH
Breast pads - wool or cotton are ideal or disposable
Maternity pads/disposable knickers/adult nappies are fantastic
Simple body wash with no colours or fragrances - won't mask the smell of mum for breastfeeding baby nor sting if you have stitches - ouch!
Maternity bras x 3 - the most comfortable bra you will ever wear!
Pyjamas/nighties
Bellies to Babies Tip: Full brief knickers (10 pairs) or a pack of disposable briefs which are super comfortable!
Loose comfortable day clothing - you won't be able to fit pre-pregnancy clothing just yet
Toiletries, soap, shampoo, toothbrush, toothpaste, hairbrush, makeup, deodorant, moisturizer, face cloth
Jandals - for the shower
Bag for dirty clothes
Pen and notepad/journal - something to jot down anything you need to remember
Glasses/contacts
Snacks
Bellies to Babies Tip: Peri Spray - the best spray to help support your healing and soothing for your perineum - Peri Spray
Wallet/eftpos card
Money for vending machines
FOR PARTNERS AND SUPPORT PEOPLE
It's really important that partners and support people pack a bag to bring too. The last thing you want to do is nip off to get food and drink right when you may be needed the most!
Togs - if your partner is planning a water birth or labouring in water and/or using the shower
Drinks and snacks - easy to prep foods, there is a microwave available to heat food
Magazine/books
Cell phone and charger
Know mum's birth plan/wishes - (if she has one) so you can advocate for her if needed
Wallet and eftpos cards
Change of clothes
Toothbrush, toothpaste and deodorant - you want to keep fresh
Your own bedding if you are planning on staying over-night once the baby is born
Bellies to Babies tip: download the Parkmate app https://www.parkmate.co.nz/ beforehand - makes it much easier than trying to find change for parking.
FOR BABY IN HOSPITAL
Merino or Cotton baby onesie x3
Socks/booties x3
Cotton singlets or bodysuits size 0000 or 000 x5
Cotton/merino beanie
Nappies - the hospital will supply some
Baby Wraps - muslin or cotton wraps
Blanket - ideally natural fibres - cotton/wool/merino/bamboo
Car seat/capsule
Going home/family photo outfit
From Bellies to Babies tip: install the car seat before you need to use it, take your time, practice with a doll or teddy and follow the instructions. The hospital won't let you leave without a car seat so this is really important.