If you’ve made it this far, WELL DONE. We hope you’re feeling really good. Now, remember that from 37 weeks, you’re considered full term. In other words, your baby could come anytime from now. Just incase the big day falls short of 40 weeks, having a packed bag by the door is essential. The last thing you want to be doing during a contraction is yelling, ‘Where the f is all of my underwear!?’
Follow our comprehensive list of hospital bag essentials. This list can be divided into two
(1) For Mum and (2) For Baby (and tick everything off here)
For Mum
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PJs or comfortable clothing that can be worn from bed, into the hospital hallways or even down the street should you need (and be able) to go for a little wander. Clothing pieces that allow for feeding (such as a robe, button down tops and maternity bras) are encouraged.
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Slippers, for the same reason above.
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Firm, black and comfortable underwear. To explain the criteria’
Firm / You’ll want all pelvic organs (including the vagina, bladder, uterus and anus), to feel they’re being held ‘up, in and well supported’, after a period of heavy pushing, not to mention carrying a baby for 9 months.
Black / It is to be expected that your body will expel varying amounts of blood, fluid, mucus, and tissue after the birth and for an undefined period of time. This collective discharge is known as Lochia.
Comfortable / Despite your delivery experience, your body will have expended significant amounts of energy and endured pain, pressure and stress. When your baby is earthside, it’s time to nurture your body back to health. Prioritising comfort in all aspects of life is paramount.
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Maternity Pads. The hospital is likely to provide you with a stack of basic pads but as well as wanting absorption capabilities, you may also like to consider pads with added cushioning, cooling, healing and soothing properties. Right? Right! Shop our finessed range of Maternity Pads here.
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Gel packs that can be made cool or warm to soothe your breasts and give comfort to your perineum or C-section https://thememo.com.au/products/maternity-care-gift-set
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Silverettes. If you’re considering breastfeeding, these medical grade nursing cupys can be used right after birth for the next couple of weeks, working to prevent and protect nipple damage https://thememo.com.au/products/silverette
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Breast Pads to catch leakage. On the topic of boobs while it’s unlikely to require a pump for the first few days in hospital, by all means pack it if it makes you feel calm and prepared.
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Snacks and a large water bottle with a straw.
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Toiletries (including shampoo and conditioner or a face mask if this will help relax you).
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An item of comfort. Remember you’re not going into hospital because you’re sick, you’re going into hospital to have a baby! For this reason, bringing something from home that offers warmth and happiness is a gorgeous (and welcomed) idea. A throw, a pillow or something of meaning. (Note: Candles and essential oil products including Clary Sage are usually not permitted)
For Baby
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Up to 6 full length onesies, up to 6 singlets, socks (x3), beanies (x2) and of course the ‘Take Home’ outfit you purchased, styled and steamed over 6 months ago (see, exciting!).
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2 or 3 swaddles
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Newborn nappies and wipes. 6-10 nappies and 1 pack of wipes should be fine, not a value box, as most hospitals should provide. Good to bring just in case though.
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Dummies (please disregard any disapproving looks from midwives. Midwives are divine however ‘subtlety’ is lost on a particular few. Remember your body, your baby, your way.
