Packing your hospital bags for Labour & Postpartum can be daunting but don’t worry! I know there are lists a mile long online and it seems like you will have to remortgage to afford all the items, but the fact is you don’t have to spend a fortune. Keep it simple and try not to stress.

You don‘t need to spend a fortune or pack the kitchen sink. Bring enough for 24 hours and your support network can bring you in anything you need after that.

There is a shop in all the maternity hospitals to get the essentials like nappies. There is often a cafe to buy food and vending machines outside of business hours. This is handy during longer labours but also postnatally you may be hungry and want more than the 3 meals provided by the hospital. Having your bank card and some coins will cover this aspect.

Hospitals provide bottles & formula milk during your stay if you choose not to breastfeed.  Ask to see an IBCLC for support if you wish to breastfeed but are finding it hard.

Breaking it down into 4 categories can help you organise yourself:

1) Labour at home mainly comfort measure tools - Think of all your senses (what will you be looking at, smelling, listening to, eating/drinking, feeling) The most common helpful items are a birth ball, yoga mat, hot water bottle, TENS machine, Cold face cloth, Rebozo, music / playlist or movies, nice scents / oils, etc

2) Labour in hospital: You can bring most of your home comfort measures with you. Also snacks, flavoured drinks (like fruit juices), one full change of clothes each for you and your birth partner, wash bag, towel, baby first outfit, change for vending machine, eye mask / sunglasses, ear plug / head phones.

3) Postnatal ward mother / parent: Think of your comfort items like headphones, extra pillow, eye mask etc, 2 full comfy outfits (with huge comfortable knickers), slippers / flip flops, wash bag & towel, maternity pads, lip balm, snacks & drinks.

4) Postnatal ward baby / babies: 3 full outfits (vest, baby-grow , cardigan, hat), nappies, wipes / cotton wool, burp cloth.

Keep it simple. Remember there is no need to stress - if you forget something it can be brought into you by a loved one or often purchased in the hospital. If you do not have anyone to bring you additional items, see our comprehensive list attached that you can work off to ensure you have everything you need.

What items do you think were essential?

Is there anything you couldn't live without?

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