Pack your bag for labour (2024)

FAQs

When should I pack my bag for Labour? ›

It might be a good idea to get your hospital bag packed at least 3 weeks ahead of the due date, so that you're all ready to go if your baby decides to make an early appearance.

When Should You Pack Your Hospital Bag? You should have your hospital bag ready to go between weeks 32 and 35 of your pregnancy, in case your baby comes a bit earlier than expected. A good time to start the packing process is around the 28 week mark, or at the start of your 3rd trimester.

Pack a toothbrush and toothpaste, lip balm, deodorant, a brush and comb, hair ties, and makeup (if you're planning to use it). Hospitals usually provide soap, shampoo, and lotion, but you might prefer your own. A hanging toiletry bag can be helpful, since there's usually little counter space in the bathroom.

It's a good idea to have your hospital bag packed and ready from around 35 weeks of pregnancy.

Aim for one outfit in newborn size and one 0-3 months. Don't forget hats and/or socks, if weather-appropriate, to keep baby warm.

Something cool and loose to wear during labour such as a cotton nighty or a large t-shirt, including something to wear in the birthing pool (the hospital can provide a gown if you would prefer this) Dressing gown, slippers and nightwear. Support bra to wear while breastfeeding.

2 packets of super-absorbent sanitary or maternity pads. 5 or 6 pairs of knickers – you may want to bring some disposable ones. your washbag with a toothbrush, hairbrush, flannel, soap, lip balm, deodorant, hair ties and other toiletries. towels.

A lot of mothers want breast coverage while they deliver, which is completely understandable, and you can keep your bra on during labor if you want. However, we recommend wearing a simple bra that is comfortable and easy to remove.

Babies born too early may have more health problems at birth and later in life than babies born later. Being pregnant 39 weeks gives your baby's body all the time it needs to develop. Your baby needs 39 weeks in the womb because: Important organs, like your baby's brain, lungs and liver, need time to develop.

What to pack when going to deliver? ›

Some moms-to-be start slowly packing their hospital bag once they enter their third trimester (27 weeks). Others wait until a week or two before their due date once they get into nesting mode.

At around 36 weeks, pack your bag so you're ready to go at a moment's notice. Even if you are planning a home birth, it's a good idea to have a bag packed in case you need to go to hospital for a premature birth, or if you have pregnancy or birth complications.

Your baby might arrive earlier than expected, so it's worth having your hospital bag (or bags, if you'd like one for labor and delivery and one for after delivery) and your baby's hospital bag organized and packed during month eight of your pregnancy—just in case.

Pack early

Don't wait until the day before your scheduled C-section to pack your bags. Your goal should be to have everything ready to go around 37 weeks in case your water breaks or you go into spontaneous labor.

Some women have a bag for labour and birth and another bag for their stay in hospital after birth. Remember that if you forget anything, your partner can get it for you at one of the shops nearby.