Practical Packing for Birth

So you're nearly at your due date. Almost there. If you are planning to have your baby in hospital, perhaps it's time to give some thought to packing your bag.

The checklist:

• Medical records.
• Toilet bag - toothbrush, flannel, your own soap, hairbrush, etc - anything that may make you feel refreshed after birth!
• Sanitary towels (not tampons)
• Clean underwear
• Slippers or socks
• Dressing gown, change of loose clothes
• Going home clothes - something comfortable and loose around the waist
• Breast pads - in case you start to feed whilst in hospital
• Nursing bra
• Camera
• Clothes for your baby
• Books and cds (if you wish)
• Medication you are currently taking
• Your birth plan

When considering your birth plan - these are the questions you should be asking yourself:

Who will be with you? Some women prefer to give birth alone or with their partner. Others cannot have enough people around them. It is up to you to decide who you'd like at the birth.

Pain relief - what you are willing to take depending on the labour. Try to be open minded with regard to this, as the labour may not go as planned.

Where the baby is to go after birth - most woman want their baby placed on their chest immediately after birth.

By writing down your wishes, those involved have an opportunity to familiarise themselves with the plan and try to respect your wishes.

When it comes to actually giving birth, you may well be too exhausted or absorbed in what is happening to remember the exact details.

It is best to remain openminded as that some decisions made before labour begins, may need to be changed if complications arise.

Comfort

If you think music might calm you, it's a good idea to take some favourite CDs or tapes to the hospital that can be played via a device that doesn't need to be attached to you. Studies have shown that music helps relaxation and is extremely soothing.

Are you taking any kind of medicine?

In general, pregnant women are advised not to take any kind of medicine. But there can be exceptions and if you are on medication, this needs to be taken into hospital and the doctors and midwives need to be notified.

What should I take for my baby?

It's a good idea to have a packed bag ready for your newborn for the journey home from hospital with some nappies, appropriate clothing for the season, blanket and extra blankets for the car journey - ensuring that the car seat can still be fastened securely.

You will no doubt want to make calls once your baby has been born, but please remember that mobile phones are not allowed in hospitals, because they may interfere with electronic equipment. So remember to take small change or a call card for phones or ask your partner to call from outside the hospital.

Whatever your birth plan, due date or type of labour, try to remember to stay calm, relaxed and look forward to your new role as a parent.